India fast bowler hasn’t set a timeline for his return from ankle injury

PTI14-Sep-2024

Mohammed Shami is working his way back from an ankle injury•Associated Press

India fast bowler Mohammed Shami wants to ensure that he is fully fit before he returns to international cricket.Shami, 34, last played in the 2023 ODI World Cup final and has since been sidelined by an ankle injury for which he underwent surgery earlier this year. (I am working hard to make a comeback soon because I know I have been out of action for quite some time),” Shami said at the Cricket Association of Bengal’s (CAB) annual awards ceremony. “However, I want to ensure there is no discomfort when I return. I’ve to work on my fitness, so that there is no discomfort.”Related

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“The stronger I return, the better it is for me. I don’t want to rush and risk getting injured again, be it against Bangladesh, New Zealand or the Australia series. I’ve already started bowling, but I won’t take any chances until I am 100% fit.”PTI had reported last month that Shami, who is undergoing rehabilitation, is likely to make a comeback to competitive cricket for his domestic side Bengal in the Ranji Trophy, and a potential international appearance later in one of the Test matches against New Zealand.It is understood that Shami will play either one or two of Bengal’s Ranji Trophy matches against UP (October 11) and Bihar (October 18).Shami also hinted at the possibility of playing domestic cricket before making his international return.”If I need to play domestic cricket to test my fitness, I will,” Shami said. “What matters most is that I am fully ready for whatever comes next, regardless of the opposition or format.”Shami is expected to be a key figure in India’s preparations for the upcoming five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.”Favourites (We are the favourites, they should be worried),” Shami said.

Following Alexander Isak’s bombshell that he wants to leave St James’ Park this summer, Newcastle United have now reportedly turned their attention towards a 6-foot-4 star who could replace the Swede, alongside Benjamin Sesko.

Newcastle preparing Benjamin Sesko move

Whilst they are still adamant that Isak is not for sale this summer, the Magpies are still on the look-out for heirs.

Alongside Yoane Wissa, who remains a target no matter where Isak is playing his football next season, those at St James’ Park have also set their sights on Sesko.

This was also the case with Hugo Ekitiké before Liverpool came swooping in. However, similarly to the Frenchman, Sesko will not come cheap this summer. Reports are suggesting that RB Leipzig are demanding as much as £60m to sell their talented forward ahead of next season.

Money would be no obstacle if Isak does leave this summer, but they’ll still want to ensure that they spend in the right way at such a key time for PIF’s project.

Eddie Howe, meanwhile, will be desperate to simply keep hold of Isak, recently telling reporters:

“We do share a good relationship. He has been magnificent for us since he joined.

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“He’s very popular in the dressing room. We would love him to continue his journey at Newcastle. Although, whatever happens has to be right for Newcastle.”

Given the forward has not travelled with Newcastle for their pre-season tour of Asia and has made it clear that he wants to leave, the Isak saga is only just getting started. The Magpies must prepare for the worst, and that could see them turn towards a Premier League rival in search of a potential successor.

Newcastle seriously interested in Strand Larsen

As reported by the Express and Star’s Liam Keen, Newcastle are now seriously interested in signing Jorgen Strand Larsen this summer. The 6’4 striker enjoyed an impressive debut season in the Premier League, and whilst he remains happy at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Eddie Howe’s side are seemingly lurking.

As things stand, Wolves’ stance is that Strand Larsen is not for sale and his happiness at the club should help fend off any interest. But it should come as no surprise that a club in Newcastle’s position are keen.

Outperforming his expected total by four goals, Strand Larsen also outdid Sesko in terms of league goals scored and was more clinical than the Leipzig star overall, according to FBref.

Minutes

2,587

2,380

Goals

14

13

Assists

4

5

Expected Goals

10.3

10

Factor in that the Wolves man is now Premier League-proven, and he becomes an interesting option for Newcastle.

That said, Wolves boss Vitor Pereira will be keen to keep hold of his towering forward, having been full of praise for him last season – describing him as “fantastic” back in March.

Sunderland supporters must constantly be checking up on transfer rumours involving their busy side this summer.

The bold Premier League new boys have already welcomed in a jaw-dropping six new signings into Regis Le Bris’ camp, and supporters thought that number would reach seven when Armand Lauriente’s arrival from Sassuolo was officially announced.

The 18-goal hero had been pictured jetting into Wearside ahead of completing a statement £17m move to the Stadium of Light, but things have taken an unexpected twist.

Indeed, Sky Sports’ north east reporter Keith Downie revealed on Sunday that a deal is now off after failing to reach an agreement between all parties. As a result, Sunderland have decided to end discussions.

Lauriente had travelled to Portugal to join up with the Black Cats squad ahead of pre-season but has now had to go back to Italy.

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As a result, what’s next for Sunderland?

Sunderland still pursuing £34m striker

There will come a time when Sunderland’s fast approach in the transfer market does inevitably slow down, but that doesn’t look like arriving anytime soon.

Indeed, it’s back to the drawing board for the Mackems now as Sunderland go about finding someone to make up for the fact that Lauriente won’t be arriving at Wearside this summer.

As per a development from journalist Ryan Taylor, Sunderland’s move for Almeria goal machine Luiz Suarez could now be back on after once going cold.

Indeed, the Spanish outfit have stated that they will be moving forward soon with negotiations with other clubs for their star-man, having been subjected to a slog on the end of Sporting who are waiting for Viktor Gyokeres to move to Arsenal before committing to a switch.

The Black Cats have already made contact over a deal for the £34m-rated attacker, with Burnley also previously lodging an enquiry, as Le Bris’ men now pray another statement signing is willing to call Wearside home.

Why Suarez would be even better than Lauriente

Across 33 Serie B clashes last season, Lauriente regularly tore the Italian second division to shreds, culminating in him ending the campaign with 18 goals and five assists next to his name, as promotion was also instantly won back up to Serie A for Fabio Grosso’s men.

Amazingly, Suarez was even more prolific in the Spanish second division with Almeria across 2024/25, demonstrating why, perhaps, Lauriente may not be such a miss for Sunderland if they can sign an alternative.

Games played

41

Goals scored

27

Assists

8

Shots per game

4.1

Big chances missed

27

Big chances created

10

In total, Suarez scored 27 goals and assisted eight goals too. He also created a hefty ten big chances demonstrating his creative side.

Indeed, the striker doesn’t just possess a “crazy” record in front of goal, as he’s been labelled previously by scout Jacek Kulig, but he’s got creativity to boot, just as Lauriente has.

Yet, it’s Suarez that surely comes out on top in the two key areas for a forward, goalscoring and creativity.

He’s not a one-hit wonder either, notably bagging 19 in 38 league outings in the Spanish second division in 2019/20.

The Almeria star is clearly a prolific forward and despite missing out on Lauriente, it might not be all doom and gloom for Le Bris. Suarez looks like a pretty handy talent too.

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In what would welcome the Tyne-Wear derby back to the Premier League in style, Newcastle United are now reportedly ready to hijack Sunderland’s move to sign a Serie A star this summer.

Newcastle return for Elanga

They may have faced their fair share of rejection so far this summer, but Newcastle are yet to be discouraged in their pursuit to sign an attacking reinforcement. Not giving up, the Magpies have returned with a second offer to sign Anthony Elanga after Nottingham Forest rejected their first bid worth around £45m.

With Bryan Mbeumo seemingly on his way to Manchester United, it’s clear to see why Newcastle have turned towards Elanga. The Swede had his best season yet last time out as Forest achieved an unthinkable European place. Now, however, he could leave the City Ground behind in favour of the Magpies.

The winger isn’t the only one on Newcastle’s shopping list, either. Those at St James’ Park now look set to complete a deal to sign James Trafford from Burnley, welcoming a long-term target in the process.

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The England international will compete with Nick Pope and may even displace the shot-stopper to become Eddie Howe’s No.1 as the ultimate modern-day goalkeeper.

Deals for both Elanga and Trafford would represent a change in fortunes for Newcastle following earlier rejection from the likes of Joao Pedro and Mbeumo. And that swing in momentum could yet see them jump ahead of rivals Sunderland to sign an ex-Arsenal midfielder in the coming months.

Newcastle ready to sign Matteo Guendouzi

As reported by Corierre della Sera and relayed by Sport Witness, Newcastle are now ready to sign Matteo Guendouzi ahead of interest from Sunderland and meet his €50m (£43m) release clause at Lazio.

The Frenchman hasn’t been seen in the Premier League since leaving Arsenal in 2022, but could now return three years later as a far more complete player courtesy of spells at Marseille and now at Lazio.

Minutes

3,270

2,393

Tackles Won

21

35

Progressive Carries

89

40

Ball Recoveries

173

149

A player who Gary Neville once described as a “leader”, Guendouzi could push Joelinton all the way for a starting place at Newcastle and offer Howe the depth he has been craving in doing so.

As the Magpies step back into the Champions League next season, it’s the type of depth that Newcastle simply must add to their side this summer. It’s also depth that they failed to sign the last time they were in the Champions League, resulting in an early exit and a finish outside the Premier League’s top four.

Signing Guendouzi would go a long way towards solving that problem all whilst getting one over on Sunderland.

تحدث ويلفريد نانسي مدرب كولومبوس كرو الأمريكي بعد التعادل بهدف لمثله ضد تورونتو إف سي في إطار منافسات الدوري الأمريكي لكرة القدم.

وكان وسام أبو علي قد افتتح التسجيل لصالح كولومبوس كرو في الدقيقة 16، قبل أن يتعادل ريتشي لاريا في الدقيقة 51 من زمن الشوط الثاني.

وقال نانسي في تصريحات نشرتها شبكة “كولومبوس ديسباتش”معبراً عن خيبة أمله بعدم نجاح فريقه في الفوز بالمباراة: “علينا مواجهة هذا الأمر، هذا ليس بالأمر السهل”.

وأضاف: “لم نلعب أفضل مبارياتنا، لكننا كنا نملك ما يكفي للفوز لكننا لم ننجح، إنها فترة صعبة”.

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وقد نجح وسام أبو علي مهاجم كولومبوس كرو أن يسجل الهدف الثالث له خلال مباراتين بجانب صناعة هدف واحد، وقد جاء الهدف بعد أن استغل تعثر مدافع الفريق المنافس كوسي طومسون داخل منطقة الجزاء.

وقد اضطر وسام أبو علي لمغادرة الملعب بسبب إصابة في الكاحل الأيمن قبل نهاية الشوط الأول، بعد أن بقى عدة دقائق يحاول التعافي من الإصابة قبل أن يحتاج لعناية طبية.

وأضاف نانسي عن إصابة أبو علي حيث لم يصدر أي تحدث رسمي عن حالة مهاجم الأهلي السابق: “أتمنى أن لا تكون الإصابة خطيرة للغاية”.

وواصل :” ليس من السهل اللعب بهذه الطريقة وتقديم أداء جيد، لقد قدم أداء جيد في الوقت الحالي، انا حزين عليه، من الواضح أنه قدم أداء مميز وسنرى إن كان سيتمكن من العودة”.

A superb bowling display by left-arm spinners Nashra Sandhu and Sadia Iqbal combined with a collective batting display helped Pakistan win the second T20I against South Africa and level the series in Multan.Sune Luus and Chloe Tryon put up an unbroken 80-run stand off 42 balls – the highest for a fifth-wicket stand for South Africa women in T20Is – but could not get their side over the line.After being put in, Pakistan lost opener Gull Feroza in the fourth over. But her partner Muneeba Ali gave Pakistan a solid start, helping them post 45 in the powerplay. She stitched a 49-run stand with Sidra Amin, hitting six fours and two sixes in her 45 off 34 balls. Amin and Muneeba went after Seshnie Naidu, hitting her for a combined four fours and a six. Muneeba was eventually dismissed by Annerie Dercksen in the 11th over.After Amin’s dismissal in the 13th over, Nida Dar and captain Fatima Sana came together for a 60-run stand, pushing Pakistan’s total past 150. Aliya Riyaz provided the finishing touches, taking Ayanda Hlubi for 6, 4, 4 in the last three balls of the innings to lift Pakistan to 181.Iqbal then struck early to remove Tazmin Britz but captain Laura Wolvaardt got a solid start, combining with Anneke Bosch for a 50-run partnership. With South Africa needing nearly 11 an over, Sandhu broke through, removing Wolvaardt for 36. Iqbal and Sandhu then took wickets in back-to-back overs, dismissing Anneke Bosch and Nadine de Klerk. Sandhu finished with figures of 2 for 20, while Iqbal bagged 2 for 27.Luus and Tryon then came together with South Africa needing 94 off 42 balls. They hit boundaries regularly but could not finish it off for their side. Luus hit 53 off 29 while Tryon scored a 16-ball 30 as Pakistan achieved parity.

Leeds United are beginning to wrap up deals swiftly, and Daniel Farke is now eager to thrash out another agreement to bring a talented operator to Elland Road, according to a report.

Leeds United set to sign Lucas Perri from Lyon

Addressing the goalkeeping department ended up being a critical assignment for Farke and company this summer, but they appear to have successfully completed that mission amid confirmation that Lucas Perri will join the Whites from Lyon.

Taking to social media platform X, Fabrizio Romano confirmed Leeds will imminently sign Perri, putting an end to their long-running quest to replace Illan Meslier.

He stated: “Leeds United have agreed deal in principle with OL for goalkeeper Lucas Perri. Medical tests booked and formal steps to follow, as Fabrice Hawkins reported. Deal in place to join LUFC.”

Coming in for a fee in the region of £15 million, the 27-year-old will offer an element of calm between the sticks, but there is plenty more work to be done if Leeds have designs on staying in the Premier League.

Looking to strengthen from middle to front, the Whites are monitoring the situation of Leicester City playmaker Bilal El Khannouss and he is said to be available for £22.5 million following the Foxes’ relegation from the top-flight last term.

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Potentially, the Morocco international could arrive in tandem with Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz, offering Farke a solid source of creativity and goals that may help his side in their fight to stay up.

Nevertheless, the German coach is also concerned with keeping the ball out of the net and is now said to be plotting a surprise move for another goalkeeper after Perri.

Leeds United eager to sign Robin Zentner

According to Transferfeed, Leeds United are eager to wrap up an agreement for Mainz goalkeeper Robin Zentner, and he is viewed as a potential key player who could offer high-calibre competition to Perri between the sticks.

After earning a spot in the Bundesliga’s team of the season in 2024/25, he is someone with notable experience that may help Farke’s mission of having two established goalkeepers fighting it out for the number one jersey rather than being reliant on a sole presence.

Zentner would also continue the trends of Leeds signing physically imposing players this summer, standing at 6 foot 4.

Robin Zentner’s excellent Bundesliga season in 2024/25 (Fotmob)

Saves

102

Save percentage

71.3%

Clean sheets

9

High claims

45

Accurate long balls

210

Enjoying a fine campaign, Zentner, labelled an “incredibly good goalkeeper” by Bo Henriksen, made 34 appearances across all competitions, though he is still to make an appearance for the German national side despite some excellent performances.

Ultimately, Leeds’ two-pronged goalkeeper strategy may leave one player at risk of losing regular minutes. There have been success stories within this mode of operation elsewhere, such as David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale at Arsenal, though it can be a complicated process to navigate.

Either way, you can never get enough competence to support the spine of your team, so it would make a degree of sense to ensure Leeds cover all bases after some goalkeeping mishaps last season.

Derby County are readying themselves for another campaign in the Championship and could now be set to push the boat out for an experienced midfielder, according to reports.

Derby County look for stability under John Eustace

John Eustace performed a minor miracle by keeping Derby in the EFL Championship last campaign and will hope his array of proven arrivals can help his side enjoy a more productive season at Pride Park.

Andreas Weimann, Danny Batth, Richard O’Donnell and Carlton Morris have all come through the door to breathe new life into a squad in need of material upgrades.

Former boss Paul Warne believes Morris could provide a steady source of goals after arriving from Luton Town, as he stated: “We signed Carlton as a young lad from Norwich and he did really well.

“He came in with a really competitive front line. At the time of his second spell, I had Michael Smith, Freddie Ladapo and Kyle Vassell, so it was some frontline. He played in numerous positions across the front for me, and he can play as the lone striker or in a two.

“He’s very good with his back to goal, really strong in the air, he’s brave, and obviously can score goals too.”

Eustace has made a habit of calling on former players himself, so it won’t come as a surprise that Derby are targeting Blackburn Rovers defender Callum Brittain as he heads into the last year of his deal at Ewood Park.

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Finding established stars with a history of excelling in the second-tier appears to be the priority for the Rams, who are now targeting an ambitious move for another recognisable name.

Derby County looking to sign Ipswich Town star Sam Morsy

According to reliable reporter Alan Nixon on his Patreon, relayed by The 72, Derby are now keen to sign Ipswich Town midfielder Sam Morsy as they prepare for another busy campaign.

The Egypt international earns £30,000 per week at Portman Road and made 34 appearances for the Tractor Boys last term, scoring once and laying on an assist.

Sam Morsy’s history of winning league titles
League Two	Chesterfield Town (2013/14)
League One	Wigan Athletic (2015/16)
League One	Wigan Athletic (2017/18)

In addition to his three titles with Chesterfield and Wigan, Morsy has also captained Ipswich to promotion from League One and the Championship, while he played a part in Port Vale’s rise to League One in 2012/13.

Ultimately, the Wolverhampton-born man has a clear track record of helping to elevate clubs in the Football League system, making him a shrewd potential addition at Derby due to his leadership qualities and drive on the pitch.

Nevertheless, overseas sides are also attentive to his situation, so it remains to be seen whether the Rams can force the hand of Ipswich before rival suitors take advantage of the fact he has one year left on his contract.

Leeds United are “targeting” a £17m Lucas Perri alternative, who’s “open to a move” this summer, with his club now ready to cash-in, according to reporter Sebastien Vidal.

Leeds' goalkeeper pursuit heating up

Daniel Farke and the 49ers Enterprises are set to bring in a replacement for Illan Meslier this summer, and Lyon shot-stopper Lucas Perri was identified as Leeds’ number one target, given the Brazilian’s impressive performances for the French side last season.

Despite suggesting the goalkeeper needs to work on his passing, journalist Luke Entwistle has suggested Perri could be a solid signing for the Whites, given his shot-stopping abilities,

Entwistle said: “He doesn’t always assure you, although most of the time he does get away with it, manages to get the ball away, and progress the ball, but he can be a little bit hairy sometimes in that regard.

“He’s a bit of a Hollywood goalkeeper, likes the Hollywood save for the cameras, he is a good shot stopper, though he’s tall as well, and commands his box.”

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However, should Farke have concerns over the Lyon goalkeeper’s ability in possession of the ball, there are plenty of alternative options on the shortlist, with Angers SCO’s Yahia Fofana recently being identified as another leading target.

With Fofana potentially set to be available for just £8m, the Ivorian could be a low-cost addition to Farke’s squad, but there could be competition for his signature, as Manchester United have also been named as an interested party in the past.

A new goalkeeper target has also now made his way onto Leeds’ shortlist, namely Royal Antwerp’s Senne Lammens, according to Vidal on X, who states the Belgian shot-stopper is set to be available for £17m.

Lammens is “open to a move” this summer, and with his club “ready to sell”, a move to Elland Road could be on the cards, with the Whites viewing him as their future no.1.

Lammens could be "phenomenal" signing for Leeds

Farke knows he cannot rely on Meslier, having dropped him in favour of Karl Darlow during the promotion run-in, but there are signs the Antwerp goalkeeper could be a more trustworthy option between the sticks.

The 23-year-old’s save percentage per 90 over the past year is particularly impressive, placing in the 98th percentile when compared to other goalkeepers, while also ranking in the 99th percentile for his crossed stopped percentage.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig was also amazed by the shot-stopper’s performances in the Belgian Pro League last season, lauding him as “simply phenomenal”.

Lammens is at the right age to be a long-term success at Elland Road, but the only concern is likely to be that he currently remains unproven in one of Europe’s major leagues.

Western Australia lost an incredible 8 for 1 – with their one run coming from a wide – in a batting collapse for the ages that has left their One-Day Cup defence in tatters.They were bowled out for 53 in 20.1 overs at the WACA Ground on Friday against a rampant Tasmania attack led superbly by Beau Webster (6-17 off six overs).It was the second lowest score in One-Day Cup history, only narrowly bettering the 51 posted by South Australia against Tasmania in Hobart in 2003.Tasmania chased down the paltry victory target in just 8.3 overs to secure a seven-wicket victory and a vital bonus point.WA’s bid for a fourth consecutive title now hangs by a thread. At one-and-three, WA need to beat Victoria, South Australia and Queensland in their remaining three games – and rely on other results to fall their way – in order to secure a top-two spot and a berth in the March 1 final.WA were crawling at 52 for 2 in the 16th over before suffering one of the worst batting collapses witnessed in professional cricket. In the space of 28 legal deliveries, WA lost eight wickets and registered just one run – in the sundries column – as Webster and Billy Stanlake ran rampant. It meant WA went from 52 for 2 to all out for 53, with not a single run scored by the players batting at No. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11.The out-of-form Cameron Bancroft was the first to fall in the collapse when trapped lbw by Webster. Ashton Turner also fell lbw to Webster three balls later, and Josh Inglis was bowled by a Stanlake pearler one ball after that.Cooper Connolly, Hilton Cartwright, Ashton Agar, Jhye Richardson and Joel Paris all posted ducks as WA’s innings was brought to a crashing end.Opener D’Arcy Short top scored with 22 in a sorry looking scoreboard for the three-time defending champions. WA fell short of their previous lowest score, the 59 they posted against Victoria at the MCG in 1969.Webster was the hero for Tasmania, claiming the early scalp of Short before kick-starting the collapse in a career-best display. Stanlake was also hugely effective, with his removal of Inglis among the highlights of the innings.In reply to WA’s embarrassing total, Tasmania raced to 27 without loss after three overs as opener Mitchell Owen let loose with a series of powerful heaves.Tasmania lost 3 for 1 as Caleb Jewell, Jordan Silk and Owen fell in quick succession, but Matthew Wade guided them home.The result marked Tasmania’s first win of the season, after a loss and a no-result from their first two games.