Category Uncategorized

Mahela Jayawardene has won matches off his bat, and thrilled crowds from around the world, but he has never been about the tidy, round numbers

Andrew Fidel Fernando at SSC16-Aug-2014When Mahela Jayawardene walked out for his final innings in Test cricket, Pakistan began to form their second guard of honour of the match. The first half of their gesture went off without a hitch. Two columns of roughly equal length were formed about two metres apart, in line with the corridor that leads out of the dressing rooms.But as soon as Jayawardene walked past the two players, on either side, Pakistan began to close in around him. Saeed Ajmal made a lighthearted comment. Younis Khan quipped back and flung his arm around the batsman while both chuckled. Long before Jayawardene could pass through, the guard straight lines had collapsed into a group huddle, just like it had on day one.Sri Lanka and Pakistan have been professional teams for years, but from the top eight sides, the amateur spirit still runs strongest in these two. It is just like Sri Lanka and Pakistan to give the same player two guards of honour in one match. It is just like Sri Lanka and Pakistan to do it wrong both times. Not that their fans would want it any other way.This Test had been moved to the SSC to give Jayawardene a perfect farewell, but so far the celebrations have not been without their blemishes. The crowd filled out a little, while Jayawardene’s stand with Kumar Sangakkara swelled, but there were vast empty spaces, in the stands and on the banks. It was a Saturday afternoon.Those that had gathered to send Jayawardene off had their chants routinely drowned out by the music blaring from the stadium speakers. Hoardings, some transplanted from their previous haunts in Galle, had been installed around the ground’s periphery, but some of those were not perfect either. “Couldn’t have been streater,” read one, showing Jayawardene driving in one-day kit. “Should go alone the ground,” went another, with a picture of Jayawardene sweeping in Tests.’One hell of an achievement’

Acting head coach Marvan Atapattu lauded Rangana Herath’s skill on day three, as he completed figures of 9 for 127 in the first innings at the SSC. Those returns are the best for a left-arm bowler of any kind in Tests, and also saw Herath move his tally against Pakistan to 83 – three more than Muttiah Muralitharan.
“Herath’s greatest strength is being accurate,” Atapattu said. “We always try to compare a spinner with a Muralitharan. I don’t think that is fair by anybody. Murali is a freak and a genius. This guy has different strengths and he has proven over the years that he is capable of getting wickets using his strengths. To get fifty wickets in a year, five-fors in an innings 20 times, 16 of them coming after Murali’s retirement is one hell of an achievement.
“I don’t think Rangana knows that he has got the best figures ever by a left-arm bowler. He is humble. He concentrates on his job and thinks about what he has to do.”

On Facebook, a Sri Lankan politician had criticised whoever had allowed the misspelled boards to be displayed, but maybe the man it had all been for would not have minded so much. Jayawardene delivered staggering highs in his career, but for all his hard runs, he has not been one to tango with perfection. He is loved at home for his efforts at Galle and Colombo. But he polarises opinion overseas, largely because of his lopsided home and away record.No bowler has dismissed Jayawardene more than six times other than Saeed Ajmal, who has claimed his scalp on nine occasions, so when he took guard against the offspinner, he seemed tense. Jayawardene prodded outside off stump, failing to account for Ajmal’s turn several times and misreading a doosra that narrowly passed the outside edge.Some days every ball hits the middle of his blade, and all his strokes – however outrageous – all come off. But on Saturday, Jayawardene was forced to scrap for every run. Two balls that struck him on the pad raised big appeals. When he played an attacking stroke, there was often a fielder in his way.Still, Jayawardene fought to improve his team’s position in the match, and deliver at least some of what the crowd that had gathered for him had come for. The cover drive off Wahab Riaz that brought his first boundary was as gorgeous as any he has played. Tired of defending to Ajmal soon after, he got inside the line of a delivery pitching on middle, and swept it hard, just inches above an outstretched hand of short fine leg. The late cut that brought his next four, off Abdur Rehman, was again just out of reach of the fielder, at second slip this time. Far from his best touch, an attack he has not always prospered against, Jayawardene found a way to play his vintage strokes, all with that signature element of danger.Eventually he grew bolder and produced the awesome moments that no good Jayawardene innings is without. The square drive off a Wahab away-swinger drew a gasp and applause from the crowd. The upper cut over the slips next ball brought a roar of appreciation. The best boundary was the last one he struck before stumps. Slinking down the pitch to Rehman, Jayawardene made room and lofted the ball over cover, with the turn.Jayawardene stood one away from half-century at stumps. If he is dismissed in this innings, he needs at least 41 more, or he will become the first batsman who has scored 10,000 runs to retire with an average below 50. The partnership is on 98, and one final century stand with Kumar Sangakkara would also be fitting, given there is a small chance this is Sangakkara’s last innings at home as well. Sri Lanka do not play Tests in Sri Lanka for almost a year after this one.The milestones would be nice on day four, for Jayawardene. But not everything has to be so neat. He has won matches off his bat, and thrilled crowds from around the world, but he has never been about the tidy, round numbers. He has been among cricket’s greatest artists with the bat, and art is never a perfect science.

Get a load of the east coast, and a furore about racism, on the first leg of our correspondent’s Australia tour

Firdose Moonda17-Nov-2012October 30

Board the now well-used Gautrain to the airport. At Sandton station, catch a glimpse of Mark Boucher stepping off. He looks well. His non-profit rhino conservation company is being launched today. He was not due to go on this tour anyway and would have retired after the England series had he not been forced to so by injury. First tour for me without him – and for every member of the squad except Jacques Kallis.October 31
Arrive in Sydney late in the afternoon. Long drive through the city gets the eyes wandering. Then out to the western suburb of Ashfield. Geographically, not the best booking. It’s quiet, but a short walk down the road reveals a bustling immigrant quarter. Serious jet lag sets in. Worse than when travelling to New Zealand even. No choice but to take an early night.November 1

Am informed it will take two bus rides to get to the SCG. The first stop is at Hyde Park. Fond memories of the London version and its beautiful running routes. This one looks just as good. Second bus needs a prepaid ticket. Don’t have one. Sympathetic driver agrees to provide an all-day pass for just $2.50.The SCG and surrounds soon loom large. A statue of Steve Waugh is the first artistic touch. Stroll along the walk of honour, where plaques have been erected in tribute to some of the country’s most loved and respected sportsmen. Don Bradman, rugby union legends the Ella brothers and John Eales, and rugby league players Ken and Dick Thornett.South Africa hold an open media session at nets. JP Duminy recounts his successes of 2008, AB de Villiers explains away his bad back, Dale Steyn talks about legally being able to kill people with a ball, and Vernon Philander laughs at the suggestion he will finally struggle. Afterwards do some work in the café next to the gym and pool. Magnificent facilities, just like Andrew Hudson said they would be.November 2

First glimpse of the SCG field. Patchy and sandy, it looks horrible to field on. The venue itself could become a favourite, as long the character-filled ladies’ and members’ stands are not knocked down. Construction is on in earnest. Soon a modern stand will be put up. As a result, media are housed in the football press box, which provides an interesting, almost square-on, look at the match.Rob Quiney impresses, but is downbeat at his presser, saying he does not think 85 will get him a national call-up. Little does he know.In search of a good supper, stumble upon the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. A wonderful find. Fireworks on New Years’ Eve must be an incredible sight.November 3

The South African attack toils without much reward on a lifeless surface. Even Hashim Amla gets a bowl. After Alex Doolan has made enough of a case with 161, Australia A declare and the rhythm resumes, with the visiting batsmen meandering their way into form. Nothing like the fiery tour match in Potchefstroom last summer.It’s Halloween weekend and the locals are more into the occasion than most South Africans. Catch glimpses of everyone from witches to ghosts to a fully kitted-out cricketer.November 4

Visit Michael Clarke’s Western Suburbs grade cricket ground, Ashfield Park, before the day’s play. Pristine in spite of its working-class reputation. Most impressive, the sculpture garden. Features a stone with the phrase “No stranger shall go empty from our door, for we ourselves eat at the doors of strangers in their land” translated into 17 languages.Back at the SCG, Steyn ends the match with a fast, furious spell. Jacques Rudolph calls it the quickest he has seen in “six or seven years”. South Africa are ready.Not much time to take in more of Sydney. Bondi has to be saved for another trip. Darling Harbour is ticked off, though. Much like on the Cape Town waterfront, the food is pricey, the dress code smart, and tourists plentiful.November 5

Test match week begins. Brisbane greets us with warmth, humidity, and a distinct Durban-like feel. Being a travel day, the team don’t train. Not so for the journalists. November 6

A torn contact lens necessitates a trip to the optometrist. They cannot give me a replacement without a prescription. Put in a call to Mohammed Moosajee, the South African team manager, who is also a doctor. No point. They meant a doctor registered in Australia. After much faffing and a knock on another optometrist’s door, a new lens is bought.Thank goodness, because not being able to see the Gabba would have been a regret. Its brightly coloured seats are quite fun. Australia have their open media session. I concentrate on injuries suffered by young bowlers and talk to James Pattinson. Move on to Mickey Arthur. “Howzits” all round. It’s good to see him again. November 7

Run along the Brisbane River on a route that goes through the Botanical Gardens. No sightings of koala or kangaroo, though, two animals I am keen to spot, especially because we don’t have them in Africa. The green on the Gabba pitch is visible. It looks a paradise for the quickies. November 8

The alleged Australian “dossier” is the source of much amusement for everyone, including Michael Clarke and Graeme Smith. Clarke said it made for “good reading”, while Smith said South Africa prefer “the guys to have the information in their heads so we don’t leave dossiers lying around”. The most interesting plan is the one to Hashim Amla, which will be to sledge him. Whatever the source of the document, it sets the tone for a typical Australia-South Africa contest – full of needle. November 9

Day one delivers almost none of the drama it promised. Instead of pace, bounce and carry, the pitch is slower than expected and flat. Amla and Kallis combine to become South Africa’s most successful run-scoring pair. Most of the drama happens afterwards, when Duminy slips and ruptures his Achilles during shuttle runs.Australian sponsors host a media event, similar to ones I have been to at home and in England. Get to know some of the local media and we discuss issues affecting cricket and society in both our countries, as soft rain falls. November 10

Last night’s drizzle has become this morning’s downpour and it does not look good for cricket. The South African team leave the ground before lunch but with a good few thousand people expected in, the rest of us wait. I interview Ian Healy about his home town. He asks after Boucher’s health. After 4pm, play is called off. November 11

Clouds still hover but drainage is excellent and play begins on time. Kallis and Amla both complete centuries but Australia hit back to dismiss South Africa for 450. The much talked-about South African attack show what they are capable of. With Australia 40 for 3, eyebrows are raised. Ed Cowan and Michael Clarke dig in, and I suspect South Africa will miss Duminy’s bowling more than they expected.The sculpture garden in Ashfield Park, Sydney•Firdose Moonda/ESPNcricinfo LtdThe local journalists introduce us to West End, a trendy suburb that reminds me of Melville, the student area I used to spend a lot of time in back home. November 12

Cowan, Clarke and Hussey dominate in a way that makes Kallis’ and Amla’s innings look nothing more than appetisers. Rory Kleinveldt’s debut does not improve, a shame, especially as his father has made the long journey to watch him. South Africa overstep an alarming 23 times. November 13

Clarke’s declaration duly comes, and for a few overs, South Africa’s vulnerability is laid bare as they slip to an effective 14 for 4. Eventually, for the first time in 14 matches, the two sides draw a game.The media heads for the Story Bridge Hotel, where chatter centres on Greg Ritchie’s racist joke-telling. Someone overhears and joins in, insistent that what Ritchie said “wasn’t that bad”. He launches his own speech, filled with k-words. The South Africans flinch. Our Australian counterparts are apologetic. They tell us the word does not have as bad a connotation here. We understand. November 14

The South African squad disperse. Many head to the Sunshine Coast. On landing in chilly Melbourne, wonder if I shouldn’t have done the same. Chose to visit the Victorian capital because South Africa won’t play here on this trip. Drive pass the Albert Cricket Ground on the way to the hotel. Amazed at how many excellently manicured and cared-for fields I’ve seen so far. My colleague Brydon warns me the water will taste different in every state because of the different minerals used. He is right. Victoria’s is far more acidic. November 15

The city-centre laneways are my office for the day. Marvel at the vintage bikes going past, while I work. Have been told Melbourne is a great city to live in and I can see why. Loads of cafés, cheaper food and drink, and endless parks. November 16

Run along the famous Tan track. Wish we had something resembling this back home. To the left, the Rod Laver Arena is visible. Wish South Africa had played here later – could have watched some of the Australian Open perhaps. Not much more time to wish, though; the hill is steep and there will be another one to climb afterwards. The tour goes on.

Talent, skill, cricketing smarts and a ferocious will to achieve: the world’s most romanticised player had it all

Trevor Chesterfield21-Jul-2010There is this fascination about batting technique that tells its own story; it is one of styles and stylists, and of how each era has produced some remarkably skilled performers. Watching half an hour of Barry Richards was as much a revelation as a revolution, and that says a lot when memories of a Len Hutton innings some 20 or more summers before on a wet Basin Reserve surface were about as perfect as anything seen. With Richards, though, it was a matter of transcending the generation gap. He carried the art a little further and added his own charisma.Richards knew the value and significance of such essential ingredients as perfect balance and classic technique mixed with economical strokeplay and footwork to match; a combination of instinctive mental and physical prowess. Sir Donald Bradman in an interview in 1992 said that he felt Richards was equal to Hutton and Jack Hobbs.This is an interesting comparison. The memory of watching the Durban-born Richards bat on a damp pitch with awkward bounce on a blustery Southampton afternoon in May 1969 as wickets tumbled around him still provides remarkable insight into his impressive technique. He had been equally imposing three years earlier, when he was first sighted – in the nets at the Harlequins Club in Pretoria during a course for fast bowlers. Here he had an opportunity to express his uncanny, extroverted style. In both instances he gave a free-flowing and articulate exhibition.In 1966 he drove with the aggressive emancipation of a batsman who had matured years ahead of his time: a classical example of textbook perfection. Three years later at Southampton, a century loomed as he conquered the bowling as well as the conditions, eliminating for a time the risky cut during a heavily rain-affected day.Richards brought to the game a new dimension with his footwork. It was modern, designed to meet the demands of the varying and ever-changing pitch conditions of the late sixties and early- and mid-seventies in England and South Africa and Australia. There are purists, though, who will debate what constitutes modern techniques; of whether Richards or that other classical stylist Hutton had the better footwork. More up to date, perhaps, is Rahul Dravid, who understands equally the importance of footwork adjustment for the surfaces of Australia and the subcontinent and England.Throughout his career Richards’ manner spoke of a temperament that entertained audiences without the need to involve domination of the Australian type, with its chauvinist overtones. His ready run-making composure was evident from his pre-pubescent years. By 1963, when he led a South African schools side to England, his thinking had become well advanced, and he had developed an uncanny ability to look at a captain’s field placings and know immediately the areas where he would score his runs.

Richards brought to the game a new dimension with his footwork. It was modern, designed to meet the demands of the varying and ever-changing pitch conditions of the late sixties and early- and mid-seventies in England and South Africa and Australia

It was instinctive and not something that might come from hours of studying, from a young age, Bradman’s – which Richards incidentally did nevertheless. It displayed his methodical approach to the game, and of how he was smarter than the opposition captain and the bowler.Richards also felt defence was another expression for attack; a modern captain’s ideal opener. Get runs on the board and get them quickly: force the bowler to bowl the ball in the area the batsman wants, work him around and show him who is in charge.A good example comes from his one Test series, against Australia in early 1970. It was Richards who was ahead of his more senior batting brethren when it came to unravelling mystery spinner Johnny Gleeson, who had the ability to bowl legbreaks and offbreaks with equal facility by holding the ball between thumb and folded middle finger of the right hand. Gleeson was on early in the first Test at Newlands, and while others battled long to spot the difference, it took Richards about half an hour: it was the legbreak if you spotted the thumb and finger; it was the offbreak if the bowler displayed the index finger above the ball. Others struggled until the fourth Test to untangle the finger mystery.Richards did not have to go in search of glory or even greatness; it was always peering over his shoulder, staring at the bowler. It came from hours of practice, until what he needed was filed in his memory bank. To this he included his own addendum, the improvisation plans that were part of his ever-developing stroke-making repertoire.It is hard, though, to compare Richards as a Test batsman to Richards the first-class classicist. He was blessed with staggering talent and an appetite for runs. No one can be judged on four Tests and a couple of centuries against what was, at best, a mediocre Australian side led by Bill Lawry. By his own admission, Richards has not been one for records. Be that as it may, first-class statistics give him 80 centuries and a career average of 54.74.In 1970-71 it was his contributions – with an average of 109.86 – that helped South Australia win the Sheffield Shield. It was the season where his talent was given every chance to flower, and where he scored 325 (out of 356) in a day’s play against Western Australia in Perth. That was his way: think big, score fast.

The regular Monday column in which Steven Lynch answers your questions about (almost) any aspect of cricket

Steven Lynch20-Nov-2006The regular Monday column in which Steven Lynch answers your questions about (almost) any aspect of cricket:

Who has scored the most centuries in Test matches in a calendar year? asked Kamran Zahid from the United States
The record is seven, shared by the West Indian Viv Richards and Aravinda de Silva of Sri Lanka. Richards scored seven centuries in 11 Tests in 1976, the year he set the overall record for runs in a calendar year, with 1710. de Silva equalled the mark in 1997, also in 11 Tests: six of his seven hundreds were scored in Colombo (the other one was in Chandigarh, in India). Watch out for Mohammad Yousuf, who has scored six centuries so far in 2006, and Ricky Ponting, who has scored five in six Tests this year to date. For a full list of the highest runscorers in a calendar year, click hereIs it true that the highest opening partnership in ODIs is held by two Kenyans? asked Philip Goulter from New Zealand
The Kenyan openers Deepak Chudasama (122) and Kennedy Otieno (144) put on 225 against Bangladesh at the Nairobi Gymkhana in October 1997. That was a new one-day international record at the time, but remained so for less than a year – Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar shared a stand of 252 against Sri Lanka in Colombo in July 1998. The record now is 286, set by Upul Tharanga and Sanath Jayasuriya for Sri Lanka against England at Headingley in July 2006.How many first-class matches had Jeff Thomson played before the 1974-75 Ashes series? Was his selection really as surprising as people make it out to be? asked Andy Rashleigh from Leeds
The super-fast Jeff Thomson was not entirely an unknown quantity when he was unleashed on England in the first Test of the 1974-75 Ashes series at Brisbane. For a start, he had played a Test before – against Pakistan at Melbourne in 1972-73 – although he went into that match with an injury, and failed to take a wicket. That was only his seventh first-class match, but because of injury he played only four more before surprising England at the Gabba.Is there a player who played for two different teams (for example, India and Pakistan) during his Test career? asked Harshal Vora from the United States
There are 14 men who have appeared for two different countries in Test cricket (this excludes the World XI players who played in the Super Series Test in Australia last year). Three of those played for India before moving to Pakistan after Partition. They were Amir Elahi, AH Kardar (who played for India as “A. Hafeez”), and Gul Mohammad. There are also five players who have played for both England and Australia: Billy Midwinter, who uniquely played for both sides against each other, and Jack Ferris, Billy Murdoch, Albert Trott and Sammy Woods, who played for England against South Africa after playing for the Aussies against England. The other two-country men are Frank Hearne and Frank Mitchell (England and South Africa), the Nawab of Pataudi senior (England and India), Sammy Guillen (West Indies and New Zealand), Kepler Wessels (Australia and South Africa) and John Traicos (South Africa and Zimbabwe). For a full list (including those World XI players), click here.Which Test captain was also an Olympic Boxing gold medallist? asked Tim Jameson from Coventry
This was Essex’s John Douglas – whose initials JWHT led to him being nicknamed “Johnny Won’t Hit Today” when he batted defensively in Australia – who captained England in 18 of his 23 Tests, including the 1911-12 and 1920-21 Ashes series Down Under. In 1908, Douglas won the middleweight boxing title at the London Olympics, beating another renowned allround sportsman, Reginald “Snowy” Baker from Australia, in the final. Douglas drowned in 1930, trying to save his father’s life when their ship sank in the North Sea.I recently did the Lord’s tour when I was in London, during which they talked about the only player to bat and bowl on both innings of a Test match on the same day. Could you help me with what match it was and when it happened? asked Rob Cohen from Australia
The player concerned was Courtney Walsh, and the match was at Lord’s, during West Indies’ 2000 series in England. Walsh was one of the not-out batsmen at the end of the first day, but was out to the first ball of the second, which also ended West Indies’ first innings. He then took 4 for 43 as England were bowled out for 143, but was called upon to bat again as West Indies collapsed to 54 all out, their lowest score against England at that point. There was time for seven balls that evening in England’s second innings, and Walsh bowled one of them to complete his unique set. This was the first Test match in which part of all four innings took place on one day of the game (England squeaked home to win the match by two wickets the next day). It happened again, as reader Rajiv pointed out, at Hamilton in December 2002, when Ashish Nehra and Tinu Yohannan of India repeated Walsh’s feat against New Zealand.

Ben Sawyer has been appointed head coach while Malolan Rangarajan and VR Vanitha are also part of the coaching staff

ESPNcricinfo staff15-Feb-2023Sania Mirza has been roped in as mentor of Royal Challengers Bangalore for the inaugural Women’s Premier League (WPL), to be played in Mumbai from March 4 to 26.On Wednesday, the franchise also announced the signing of Australian Ben Sawyer as head coach. Sawyer is the head coach of New Zealand Women and was part of the Women’s World Cup-winning side with Australia last year as the assistant coach.Malolan Rangarajan, the former Tamil Nadu offspinner and lead talent scout, has been named assistant coach, while VR Vanitha, the former India batter, will come onboard as fielding coach.Related

Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Giants to kick off WPL 2023

WPL – How the five teams stack up after the auction

They have also brought on board RX Murali as a power-hitting coach. Murali has built up an excellent body of work locally in Bengaluru, having helped train several Karnataka players, Mayank Agarwal among the more prominent names in recent times.Sania Mirza ‘excited’ to work on the mental aspects with young Indian talentMirza, the first Indian woman to win a major title – she finished with six across women’s doubles and mixed doubles – is expected to join the squad following the conclusion of the ATP Dubai Open, which is likely to be her last professional tournament. Mirza, 36, announced her decision to retire from professional tennis prior to the Australian Open, where she and her partner Rohan Bopanna finished runners-up in the mixed doubles.”I was a little surprised [at being offered a mentorship role], but I was really excited,” Mirza told RCB TV. “I want to make young girls believe sport can be one of the first career choices for them. I want to help the next generation into believing in themselves no matter how much the odds are against you, you can achieve your goals.”Mirza was particularly enthused about working with the younger Indian players and helping them deal with pressure. “The mental aspect of it is something I look forward to working with the younger girls,” she said. “I feel I can [help] bring in the mental steadiness, the mental belief, I can talk of the experiences I’ve had over 20 years of playing. Being the only [Indian] woman doing it for so many years has been lonely, but the pressure has been high, that kind of stuff is something I can truly help with.”Royal Challengers put together a star-studded line-up at the inaugural auction, headlined by Smriti Mandhana, Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Sophie Devine, Dane van Niekerk and Richa Ghosh.The team will open its WPL campaign on March 5, the second day of the tournament, against Delhi Capitals at Brabourne Stadium.

Divock Origi is set to leave AC Milan with a payoff agreed, ending his difficult spell and opening the door to a fresh challenge at 30.

• Origi joined Milan in 2022 on a free transfer
• Scored only two goals in his debut season
• Club to pay less than half his remaining salary 

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  According to , Milan and Origi are finalising talks over terminating his contract, with both parties close to an agreement. The Belgian striker, who arrived on a free transfer from Liverpool in 2022, struggled to make an impact in Italy. Despite earning €4 million per year, he managed just two goals before being loaned to Nottingham Forest, where his fortunes didn’t improve. Milan are expected to pay him less than half of his remaining salary before parting ways.

Advertisement

• Getty Images Sport
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  The former Reds striker was brought in to add depth and experience to Rossoneri’s attack, but instead became a costly burden. After signing a four-year deal worth, he has not played a single match for Milan since May 2023. His decline from Champions League-winning hero at Liverpool to a peripheral figure at San Siro highlights the risks of free transfer deals with high wages. For Origi, the termination opens the door to a fresh challenge at 30, where he will hope to revive his form and rediscover consistency.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Origi has a reputation as a “big-game player” thanks to decisive goals at Liverpool, including strikes in the 2019 Champions League semi-final against Barcelona and the final versus Tottenham. However, he never found similar magic in Milan.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• Getty Images Sport
  

  WHAT NEXT FOR ORIGI?

  Once his contract termination is completed, Origi will become a free agent. At 30, he will be looking for a new club, though he must first regain full match fitness after mostly training individually with a personal coach over the past year. Several clubs across Europe and beyond could now explore signing the Belgian forward.

Barcelona could snap up Bayern outcast Bryan Zaragoza, with the winger eager to leave this summer and the Blaugrana eyeing cut-price alternatives.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Zaragoza desperate to quit Bayern this summerBarca exploring cheaper wing options after Nico snubOsasuna loan star impressed twice against CatalansFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Barca are considering a summer swoop for Bayern winger Bryan Zaragoza, who is eager to leave after a frustrating spell under coach Vincent Kompany. According to the Spanish TV program Barca have reportedly contacted the player’s entourage and are weighing up a formal approach as they seek reinforcements out wide.

AdvertisementTHE BIGGER PICTURE

After missing out on top target Nico Williams, who extended his contract with Athletic Club, Barcelona have turned to cheaper, more feasible alternatives. Zaragoza, with his €12m (£10m) valuation and La Liga experience, fits their budget. Barca also hold interest in Luis Diaz and Marcus Rashford, but both are far more expensive targets. Zaragoza is reportedly enthusiastic about joining Barca, even if it means playing second fiddle to Lamine Yamal and Raphinha. His friendships within the squad and past standout performances against Barcelona have only fuelled mutual interest.

DID YOU KNOW?

The 23-year-old scored twice against Barca in a 2-2 draw with Granada in October 2023, and followed that up with a goal and assist for Osasuna in their 4-2 win over the Catalans in September 2024. His direct style and low centre of gravity (1.64m) make him a known threat to the Blaugrana backline.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

gettyWHAT NEXT FOR BARCA & ZARAGOZA?

Barcelona’s financial limitations make Zaragoza an attractive, affordable option to bolster squad depth. With Bayern open to recovering most of the €13m (£11.2m) they paid Granada just months ago, a deal could progress quickly, especially with other suitors like Real Betis and Olympiacos also circling. Barca may now decide between short-term practicality or pushing again for high-profile names.

MatériaMais Notícias

Derrotado na final da Copa do Brasil pelo Flamengo, na última quarta-feira (19), o Corinthians viverá dias para retomar o foco pensando em fechar bem a temporada. Até o fim do ano, o time alvinegro terá mais sete jogos com um objetivo claro: a classificação direta à fase de grupos da Libertadores via Campeonato Brasileiro.

continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasCorinthiansCalendário é cruel com o Corinthians após vice da Copa do BrasilCorinthians21/10/2022CorinthiansCorinthians x Fluminense, na Arena, já tem ingressos à venda; veja valoresCorinthians21/10/2022BrasileirãoSantos x Corinthians: saiba onde assistir ao clássico pelo BrasileirãoBrasileirão20/10/2022

+ Confira detalhes da terceira camisa e a nova linha do Corinthians em alusão ao Mundial do Japão

O elenco corintiano sentiu o ‘baque’ da perda da decisão e sabe que terá que digerir rapidamente o vice para não se perder no Brasileirão. No entanto, a reapresentação corintiana ontem (20) ainda foi em “clima de velório”.

Os atletas sabem que vão ter que “virar a chave” em relação a tudo o que aconteceu nos últimos dias. É consenso entre eles que mais do que a dor da derrota, a forma como ela ocorreu é o que tem mais ferido. Todos entendem que o Timão foi melhor do que o Flamengo, principalmente no confronto de volta, e que o roteiro parecia escrito para um título corintiano, com o empate no fim do jogo e vitória nas penalidades.

+ Confira a tabela do Brasileirão e simule os últimos jogos da competição

Nas últimas semanas, o elenco do Timão se fechou em busca do título da Copa do Brasil. A iniciativa do técnico Vítor Pereira era que os atletas entrassem em campo com a faca entre os dentes, se entregando em “espírito de decisão”. Agora, todos sabem que manter essa pegada será difícil, mesmo ainda tendo objetivos a cumprir e adversários tradicionais pela frente, principalmente nas próximas três rodadas em que enfrenta Santos, Fluminense e Flamengo – entre os duelos contra os times cariocas pode haver a remarcação do jogo suspenso contra o Goiás, mas isso ainda não foi definido pela CBF.

Para piorar, da trinca de duelos seguintes, dois são fora de casa (Santos e Flamengo), podendo ser três, caso o confronto diante do Esmeraldino seja encaixado nos próximos dias. Neste momento, o combustível da nação corintiana seria fundamental para que o elenco do Timão deixasse a perda na decisão da Copa do Brasil para trás e voltasse a atenção à missão que tem no Campeonato Brasileiro. Tanto no Maracanã, quanto nos dias seguintes, a torcida do Corinthians demonstrou apoio ao elenco, entendendo a derrota e valorizando a campanha do clube.

Players learn news while in field on third afternoon against Hampshire at Ageas Bowl

Vithushan Ehantharajah28-Sep-2023

Surrey 207 and 112 for 6 (Sudharsan 31*, Prest 2-32) need another 73 runs to beat Hampshire 219 and 172 (Vince 56, Jacks 5-87)A butterfly flapped its wings – in this case, Tom Taylor clattering the stumps of No.11 Jamie Porter at Wantage Road – and 115 miles away at the Ageas Bowl, Will Jacks pulled out of delivering the fourth ball of the 24th over to clap the travelling fans sat in the stands at square leg. Surrey were 2023 County Champions.Essex had been bowled out for 211, the requirement of full batting points along with a win unfulfilled after losing their final five wickets on the morning of day three. It meant Surrey’s own first-innings malaise of 207 would go unpunished, and yet another season of otherwise unrelenting brilliance rewarded with title number 21, and second under head coach Gareth Batty.”When I heard those cheers, I didn’t know what to do,” Jacks said of that moment the Championship was confirmed. “I looked around at everyone. Foakesy was clapping but everyone was still in the same spot – I didn’t know if we would come together and have a high-five and huddle. I just did a little clap and looked around and got on with it.”I bowled a pie and the next few overs were terrible. I didn’t know what to do.” Jacks went on to take 5 for 87, as Hampshire were dismissed for 172 to set Surrey a target of 185 that – to judge by their stumble to 112 for 6 at the close – they don’t wholly seem bothered about chasing.”I’m out of suggestions [for the guys batting in the morning],” joked Rory Burns, now with three titles as captain. His main objective of a successful title defence, having failed to achieve that in 2019, has been ticked.”It feels pretty special,” Burns said. “We set out to go back-to-back and the way we have done that is very pleasing.”Essex have pushed us all the way so there was pressure around this week, so it was all about winning the game this week as that was the best method to do that. To get over the line without having to finish our job is nice.”Essex were the side that toppled Surrey four years ago, and Burns admitted their disappointing sixth-place showing in that year’s campaign had influenced the squad’s approach this time around.”We learned a few lessons from [winning in] 2018. The way we have played our cricket this year has been really positive. How we have taken games on and seized the initiative in big moments. We didn’t want to defend it this season, we wanted to attack it. Not many teams go back-to-back so that is a feather in our cap and a really pleasing element to this one.”As far as successful title defences go, a feat they’ve achieved on 11 previous occasions, this was somewhat unremarkable in that it relied on errors elsewhere. Essex did push Surrey close, winning six on the bounce before their penultimate-round defeat to Hampshire. But those from south London had established ample ground between themselves and the rest in the months before. Of the many things in Surrey’s bank, points was one of them.Those in the away dressing-room embraced upon confirmation of their title, followed by chants of “Champeones!” from the stands as the players on the field got ready for the next over. Ryan Patel, who started the match in the XI before being replaced by Jamie Smith from the third innings of the match, was spotted heading into the changing room with a pre-printed flag honouring Surrey’s achievement.Only when they made it through to lunch did the players on the field embrace in the middle, as James Vince and Nick Gubbins headed off with Hampshire on 67 for 2, leading by 78, as if that even mattered anymore.Surrey celebrate after their Championship title retention was confirmed•Surrey CCC/Getty Images

Alec Stewart, director of cricket, stepped onto the field to embrace the team, starting with Burns, and when the ground MC announced Surrey as champions, applause from all in the stands scored their walk off. By stumps, they were 112 for 6 chasing a target of 185, with a few shots making you wonder if they were (understandably) trying to finish it tonight. Either way, a night in the Ageas Bowl Hilton awaits.If the blow of a Championship spurned led to Essex’s collapse to an innings defeat at Northampton, Surrey were certainly buoyed by their fresh crown, emerging to take Hampshire’s last eight first-innings wickets for the addition with 105. The pitch, which has turned throughout, seemingly went into overdrive as Jacks claimed a first five-wicket bag for Surrey, adding to the maiden first-class haul of 6 for 161 on Test debut against Pakistan in Rawalpindi last December.It was particularly quirky given that Jacks had come in from ODI duty to replace Tom Lawes on day two, who had taken 5 for 27 in the first innings. The pair say they are claiming the 10-wicket match haul together. Jacks even adopted a white-ball approach for a breezy second innings cameo of 24 from 16, striking two sixes and two fours before falling as the fifth wicket. Sai Sudharsan remains unbeaten on 31, with Jordan Clark.The booze had been flowing shortly before bad light ended the day at 5.26pm. Later, Kemar Roach knocked up his favourite concoction – Guinness, sweet milk and cinnamon. Bubbles weren’t too far off. Whether the remaining 73 runs get knocked off is academic. Soon after stumps, those not involved in the travelling group of players and staff, such as Test vice-captain Ollie Pope (recovering from a shoulder dislocated during the Ashes), Surrey chief executive Steve Elworthy and an assortment of friends and family had made their way into the away dressing-room. Even actor Rory Kinnear, he of the Daniel Craig run of James Bond films, joined them.This has been a real team effort, of old, new and overseas. As many as 19 players have been used across the 14 matches, nine of whom are academy graduates. Moreover, they have contended throughout with absences at the Indian Premier League and England duty. Even here, having welcomed back Smith and Jacks from the ODI series against Ireland, they are without Sam Curran and Gus Atkinson, who headed to India on Wednesday evening for the 50-over World Cup.No batter will finish the season with four figures, but Ben Foakes has been the standout with three centuries. No bowler has reached 50 dismissals, with Jordan Clark and Dan Worrall settling for an impressive haul of 48 apiece, at 21.35 and 24.20 respectively.They were ruthless when they needed to be, with four of their eight wins to date coming inside three days. When they were pushed into dark corners, they emerged gloriously into the light, notably after being skittled for 145 against Kent in their first innings back after the first Championship break, then chased down 501 for the loss of just five to win. And even that carried an air of inevitability.Over the last two years, they have suffered two defeats in 27 matches. The first – the last match of the 2022 season at Lancashire – was after a week (and then some) of revelry having sewn up the title a round early. It may well be three in 28 by tomorrow for the same reasons.There’s no better reason for losing a match than having completed a gruelling, six-month-long marathon with time to spare and marking it accordingly. Imagine how good you have to be to do that twice?