Padmakar Shivalkar, the champion left-arm spinner who is counted among the greatest Indian cricketers to never play for India, has died at the age of 84. He died in Mumbai on Monday and is survived by his wife, son and daughter.Shivalkar is often twinned with the Haryana left-arm spinner Rajinder Goel – the highest wicket-taker in Ranji Trophy history – for the misfortune of having careers that coincided with that of Bishan Singh Bedi.”One of the regrets I have is that, as the then captain of the Indian team, I could not convince my fellow selectors to pick Goel and Paddy to play for India,” Sunil Gavaskar told when the BCCI awarded Goel and Shivalkar the CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement award in 2017. “They were born in the same era as the greatest left-arm bowler I have seen, Mr Bishan Singh Bedi. Else they too would have played plenty of Tests for India.”Related

• In praise of Paddy and Goel paaji

• Goel, Shivalkar to receive Lifetime Achievement Awards

Gavaskar shared a dressing room with Shivalkar when Bombay (now Mumbai), the most successful team in the Ranji Trophy, enjoyed their greatest period of dominance. Shivalkar featured in ten of Bombay’s victorious Ranji Trophy campaigns from 1965-66 to 1976-77 – they won the title in every season barring one in that time – and was part of the squad that reclaimed the crown in 1980-81. Incredibly, he made a comeback seven years later at the age of 47 and played two matches during the 1987-88 season.His first-class debut had come all the way back in April 1962, when he was picked in a Cricket Club of India President’s XI against an International XI that was making a world tour. Against that team, which included luminaries such as Bob Simpson, Tom Graveney, Colin Cowdrey, Everton Weekes, Richie Benaud and Sonny Ramadhin, Shivalkar took 5 for 129 and 2 for 44 in a drawn game.In all, Shivalkar took 589 wickets in 124 first-class matches at an average of 19.69. Of those wickets, 361 came in the Ranji Trophy. No Mumbai bowler has taken more wickets in the competition. Shivalkar’s best figures of 8 for 16 came in the 1972-73 final against Tamil Nadu, when Bombay won in two days and one ball on a vicious Chepauk turner.Former India medium pacer and current BCCI president Roger Binny said in a statement, “Indian cricket has lost a true legend today. Padmakar Shivalkar’s mastery over left-arm spin and his deep understanding of the game made him a revered figure in domestic cricket. His exceptional career and selfless contribution to Mumbai and Indian cricket will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Harry Maguire was caught on camera deploying dark arts after being substituted out of Manchester United’s Premier League clash with Chelsea at Old Trafford. With the Red Devils hanging onto a narrow lead in that contest, their experienced England international defender made a point of kicking away spare match balls – helping to slow down any restarts.

Man Utd battled to vital Premier League victory

Maguire was replaced in the 70th minute of a crunch clash in Manchester. United were two goals to the good at that point, with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro firing them into a first-half lead.

AdvertisementWatch Maguire kick spare balls off conesBoth teams reduced to 10 men at Old Trafford

Bruno Amorim’s side took advantage of seeing Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez sent off inside the opening five minutes. They were, however, reduced to 10 men themselves before the interval when Brazilian midfielder Casemiro collected a second yellow card.

United had to dig in from there, as the Blues came back into the game, and Maguire did his best to ensure that the Red Devils did not give their opponents any assistance. That meant casually knocking balls perched on touchline cones off their stand when making his way around the pitch after being substituted.

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Getty Images SportRed Devils hung on for three precious points

Maguire’s tactics ultimately paid off, despite Trevoh Chalobah pulling a goal back for Chelsea 10 minutes from the end. United were able to see the game out in terrible weather conditions that left Old Trafford soaked, with much-needed celebrations taken in at the final whistle.

Transfer deadline day is always an exciting one for fans all over England, but today could prove to be a huge day for Tottenham Hotspur in their quest to end the window on a positive note.

Up to now, the business conducted by Thomas Frank has been a huge success, spending around £155m on new additions, with Xavi Simons being the latest big-money signing in North London.

The Dutchman joined in a £52m deal last week, adding to the £55m signing of Mohammed Kudus and a permanent move to land Frenchman Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich.

However, new boss Frank is evidently still hunting for further additions to help boost his chances of securing any form of success in Europe and or the Premier League this campaign.

Numerous names have emerged on their shortlist throughout deadline day, with progress being made on deals to land various top-level European talents.

Spurs’ hunt to land new talent on deadline day

Despite Simons’ transfer in recent days, Spurs have been hunting for the signature of Ademola Lookman over the last couple of hours – potentially costing a fee in the region of £43m.

The Nigerian, who scored 20 goals for Atalanta last season, has been desperate for a transfer this summer, potentially getting himself a move to North London before tonight’s deadline.

However, another name has emerged on their radar in recent hours, with Football Insider reporting the Lilywhites are keen on a late move for Conor Gallagher.

They claim that the Atlético Madrid star is available for €60m (£52m) in the coming hours, with Newcastle United also battling Frank’s side for a potential switch back to England.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be perfect for Kolo Muani

Alongside Lookman, Spurs are negotiating a deal with PSG for the signing of striker Randal Kolo Muani – despite the Frenchman looking certain to join Juventus this summer.

It’s been reported this morning that the Lilywhites are close to agreeing personal terms with the forward over a deal to North London – with a loan with an obligation to buy mooted before tonight’s deadline.

Such a deal has advanced after Dominic Solanke suffered a setback with his current ankle issue, with no timeframe currently placed on his return to first-team action.

Kolo Muani, who scored 10 goals in 22 appearances on loan in Italy last campaign, would offer another impressive option in the final third – potentially being aided by Gallagher in his quest for goals in 2025/26.

Whilst the former Chelsea star is primarily a ball-winning option, he’s also showcased his ability to break the lines and play key passes into attacking areas – having the tools to be a perfect box-to-box talent in Frank’s side.

His underlying stats from the 2024/25 campaign showcase the talent he possesses, with £52m potentially being an excellent price – should he replicate such figures in North London.

The 25-year-old, who’s been labelled “sensational” by journalist John Cross, ranked in the 89th percentile for tackles won (1.8) and in the 90th percentile for recoveries made (5.9) in LaLiga – showcasing his ability to regain possession should he move to Frank’s side.

However, in possession, the England international also impressed, making an average of 3.5 progressive passes per 90 at a pass completion rate of 85% – tallies which could provide Kolo Muani with constant chances in dangerous areas.

Games played

32

Goals & assists

6

Pass accuracy

85%

Progressive passes

3.5

Passes into final third

2.5

Tackles won

1.8

Interceptions made

1.1

Recoveries made

5.9

2.6 of his progressive passes last season were made into the final third, further showcasing his talent with the ball at his feet, offering added ammunition for the Frenchman should he join the Lilywhites.

£52m would be another huge investment from the Spurs hierarchy, but it’s a deal that could add further quality into Frank’s already impressive midfield department.

If he can replicate his numbers from LaLiga last season, it would be a sensational pickup and one that could allow Kolo Muani to adhere himself to the supporters in the process.

Frank's next Wissa: Spurs close to agreeing terms to sign £50m star

Tottenham are set for a frenetic finish to the summer transfer window.

2 ByAngus Sinclair Sep 1, 2025

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Há seis meses do fim do seu contrato com o Corinthians, o meia Giuliano pode ter uma sobrevida em busca de um novo vínculo com o clube alvinegro, até então visto como improvável. O técnico Vanderlei Luxemburgo alterou o jogador de posição e, assim como já havia feito com Paulinho, o transformou em primeiro volante. 

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Giuliano entrou no segundo tempo da derrota corintiana por 1 a 0 para o Athletico-PR, neste sábado (24), pelo Brasileirão, exercendo a nova função. Foi a primeira vez que o atleta atuou desta forma com a camisa corintiana, mas a alternativa já vinha sendo testada por Luxa durante os 11 dias de paralisação dos jogos no futebol brasileiro por conta das datas Fifa. Inclusive, o meio-campista atuou como volante em um jogo-treino que o Timão fez com a Portuguesa, no último fim de semana.

+ Defesa vai mal, e Caetano é o pior em derrota do Corinthians pelo Brasileirão

A ideia de ter o camisa 20 como primeiro homem do meio-campo tem o intuito de dar qualidade na saída de bola corintiana, dando mais força física à frente da zona central. Assim, por exemplo, Maycon, que é volante de origem, jogou mais adiantado que Giuliano na etapa final contra o Furacão.

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– Treinei (Giuliano como primeiro volante) e foi uma surpresa, como foi o Paulinho. Jogadores com experiência parecem que se encaixam. Jogou bem no jogo-treino contra a Portuguesa, quando observei ele como primeiro volante. Estavam forçando muito a nossa saída de bola – disse Luxemburgo em entrevista coletiva após a derrota em Curitiba.

+ Renove o seu estoque de camisas do Timão com o cupom LANCEFUT 10% OFF

A tentativa com Giuliano na nova função é a mesma que Luxa idealizou com Paulinho e chegou a utilizar em três partidas até o meio-campista romper o ligamento cruzado anterior do joelho esquerdo. Com a lesão, o camisa 15 perdeu a temporada, já que a recuperação média prevê seis e oito meses.

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Enquanto primeiro volante, Paulinho fez boas partidas, principalmente contra o Flamengo, pelo Brasileirão, no estádio do Maracanã, independentemente da derrota sofrida nos minutos finais para o time carioca.

Joga a favor de Giuliano a versatilidade. Na carreira, o jogador atuou por diversas funções. Passando pelo meio-campo, ele atuou por todas as faixas, além de ter atuado no ataque, pelos lados e até mesmo como centroavante em algumas ocasiões.

Contratado em 2021 para ser um dos articuladores do meio-campo corintiano, o camisa 20 nunca se firmou na equipe e até mesmo quando viveu um bom momento com a camisa alvinegra, no fim do ano passado, ele nunca foi titular absoluto. O atleta tem vínculo com o Timão até o fim da temporada. A tendência, até agora, é que ele não seja renovado. Porém, possíveis boas atuações na nova posição pode garantir uma nova realidade para o jogador, que tem 33 anos.

The attacking midfield position is one that has caused Thomas Frank no end of trouble since taking the reins at Tottenham Hotspur earlier this summer.

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The Dane made his ambitions of strengthening the position evident early on, after making a £60m move for Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White back in July.

However, a move fell through for the Englishman’s signature before James Maddison suffered an ACL injury that could rule him out of the majority of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

Such situations have highlighted the need for added depth in the number ten position, with no recognised attacking midfielder currently on the books, with Pape Sarr featuring in the role in the recent clash with Burnley.

That could all be about to change in the coming days, with Frank now making key moves for multiple talents across Europe to add the needed depth required for added success.

Spurs preparing move for an Eze alternative

Their ambitions of improving the squad had seen attention being turned to Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, although things have taken a turn on that front.

He’s been a key target over recent months, but after talks between the sides, it now appears the 27-year-old is edging toward a move to Arsenal instead, as revealed by David Ornstein on X, following a last-gasp hijack from the Gunners.

Other deals may well have to be pursued to land further attacking talents, with Atalanta star Ademola Lookman of interest, according to TBR Football.

The report claims that the Nigerian international has handed in a transfer request at the Serie A side, leading to his intermediaries offering him out to the Lilywhites.

It also states that Frank’s staff have been in talks with the 27-year-old and his representatives over a move, leading to a £40m transfer fee being mooted before the September 1st deadline.

Why Spurs’ £40m target would be a better signing than Eze

Eze has been a shining light in Palace’s success over the last couple of months, notching 25 combined goals and assists for Oliver Glasner’s side throughout the 2024/25 campaign.

Numerous of his efforts popped up in key moments, including in the FA Cup final, helping the Eagles win their first ever major trophy with a 1-0 win over Manchester City at Wembley.

The figures he produced in the Premier League last season would certainly hand Frank the added quality he’s been craving, whilst also highlighting the backing he has from owner Daniel Levy to help the side reach the next level.

However, a deal for Lookman could prove to be a better addition for the side, offering added quality, but also more experience at the top level of the European game – something which Eze has lacked in his career.

The Nigerian has already made 37 appearances across all European competitions, notching 12 goals – including five in seven Champions League outings last campaign.

Such tallies would be of use given the Lilywhites’ upcoming European adventure, whilst also massively outperforming the Palace star in numerous areas from 2024/25.

Lookman, who’s been labelled “world-class” by commentator Mateo Bonetti, posted more combined goals and assists in league action, whilst also managing a better shot on target accuracy rate.

Such figures would add a needed goal threat to Frank’s side, something which is extremely important for a number ten, alongside their creative ability.

Games played

31

34

Goals & assists

20

16

Shot on target accuracy

40%

27%

Key passes made

2.5

2.1

Passes into the opposition box

1.7

1.3

Progressive carries

5.7

2.4

Carries into the opposition box

3.2

0.7

Crosses completed

4.9

3.8

Aerial success rate

57%

15%

The former Everton star also managed to impress in chance creation, making more key passes and passes into the opposition box per 90, able to provide those ahead of him with crucial chances in front of goal.

Lookman’s dominance over Eze is further highlighted in his higher tallies of carries into the 18-yard box per 90, able to manoeuvre himself into dangerous positions.

Getting into threatening areas is one thing, but the Nigerian has showcased with his shooting stats that he has the ability to find the net himself – or even tee up a teammate if needed.

Both players would be excellent additions to the Lilywhites squad, offering key quality and depth in pivotal areas of the pitch – something which has been lacking in the early stages of 2025/26.

However, there’s no denying that the Atalanta star would be a better addition, not to mention a cheaper one too, given the £20m difference in their current asking prices.

Frank's answer to Gibbs-White: Spurs make enquiry for "phenomenal" talent

Tottenham Hotspur appear to be making a move to land a star who could thrive under Thomas Frank.

ByEthan Lamb Aug 20, 2025

كشف مصدر بـ اتحاد الكرة المصري، عن آخر التطورات الخاصة بمصير الشكوى المقدمة من أحمد سيد زيزو لاعب فريق الكرة بـ الأهلي من أجل مستحقاته المتأخرة لدى نادي الزمالك.

أحمد سيد زيزو، كان قد انتقل إلي صفوف النادي الأهلي، في صفقة انتقال حر، في الصيف الماضي، بعد انتهاء عقده مع نادي الزمالك.

وتقدم زيزو، بشكوى ضد الزمالك بداعي عدم حصوله على بعض مستحقاته خلال فترة تواجده بالقلعة البيضاء قبل الانضمام إلى صفوف الأهلي.

ونادي الزمالك، هو الآخر، كان قد تقدم بشكوى إلى لجنة الانضباط في اتحاد الكرة ضد زيزو في الأول من مايو الماضي، بسبب تغيبه عن تدريبات الفريق.

وقال المصدر في تصريحات خاصة لـ بطولات: “اللجنة القانونية أعطت مدة شهر للزمالك للرد على شكوى أحمد سيد زيزو”.

وأوضح المصدر: “المدة طويلة لأن ممثل الزمالك القانوني طلب أن يحصل على فترة كافية للرد على طلبات زيزو بالحصول على 82.5 مليون جنيه، وذلك بعد مراجعة المستندات الخاصة باللاعب لدى النادي واثبات إنه حصل على كافة مستحقاته”.

طالع | زيزو يحقق حلمه وتريزيجيه يحتفي بإنجازه.. ماذا قال نجوم منتخب مصر عن التأهل لـ كأس العالم؟

واختتم المصدر تصريحاته قائلا: “بعد ما يتقدم الزمالك بمستنداته الأخيرة، ستتخذ اللجنة القانونية قرارها”.

Kate Scott's husband, Malik, has urged former Manchester United team-mates Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney to stage a 'global' boxing bout, claiming that it would do a lot of 'good' for the sport. Celebrity boxing events have been gathering a lot of fame over the last couple of years with multiple stars getting involved.

• Scott wants Ronaldo and Rooney to fight in the ring

  Former boxing heavyweight Scott has been coaching a number of athletes since his retirement, including names like Deontay Wilder and Ezra Taylor. The 44-year-old, who has started delving into the football world since marrying broadcaster Kate, has suggested that Ronaldo and Rooney should have it out in the ring, as it would bring a lot more eyes to the sport thanks to their stature.

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  Boxing would be better for another celebrity fight

  Speaking to , Scott said: "Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Wayne Rooney would bring more eyes to boxing, and I'm all for it. Any time boxing gets more attention, it's a good thing. I want people to enjoy the spectacle, not just critique it. Just enjoy the carnival.  It would be a global event because these are high-level names that would draw huge numbers."

• AFP
  

  Ronaldo and Rooney's history with boxing

  While neither Ronaldo has never boxed in a match before, his former Manchester United team-mate does have a love of the sport. Rooney's infamous boxing celebration and the revelation that former Sheffield United keeper Paddy Kenny wants to fight him in the ring are among his escapades in a game he loves on the side. Ronaldo, meanwhile, has often been spotted watching MMA and boxing clashes.

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• Could Ronaldo and Rooney actually get into the ring?

  The chances of Rooney taking part in a boxing bout are actually high with the ex-England international often having talked about getting into the ring. However, facing off against Ronaldo seems highly unlikely at least for the next few years, as he continues to focus on his Al-Nassr career.

Connolly had played just four first class games and was wicketless from his 96 deliveries before his Test debut in Galle

Tristan Lavalette06-Feb-20250:40

Connolly: ‘I like to be aggressive while I’m playing red-ball cricket as well’

From the moment his clutch batting memorably lifted Perth Scorchers to the BBL title almost exactly two years ago, Cooper Connolly quickly became a fan favourite and there was plenty of intrigue over the potential of this promising left-arm spinning allrounder.But even his legion of admirers out west could not have foreshadowed his rise to Test cricket would be so swift. After just four first-class matches, the 21-year-old Connolly became Australia’s 471st men’s cricketer after he replaced offspinner Todd Murphy in Australia’s XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. He became Australia’s fourth debutant in as many Tests.With his emotional parents standing nearby, Connolly, 21, was presented with his baggy green cap by former Test batter and fellow Western Australian Simon Katich.Related

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Sri Lanka's 'strength is spin', but it's a game Australia can play too

His selection for this Test had been murmured in recent days with expectations that the surface used for this match would be notably dry and especially favourable to spin.Connolly’s selection has raised some eyebrows given he is wicketless from 96 deliveries in his first-class career so far. But all three of his Shield matches have been at the pace-friendly WACA ground, while he bowled only six overs against India A in Mackay in early November which was his last first-class match.Albeit a different format, but Connolly did take six wickets in the recent BBL season – where he was named player of the tournament after scoring the most runs in the league stage – highlighted by a strong performance against Sydney Thunder in favourable spinning conditions at the Showgrounds.ESPNcricinfo Ltd

If the surface for the second Test does spin sharply, Connolly could prove dangerous and provides another left-arm spinning option alongside Matthew Kuhnemann, who had so much success in the series opener.”From what I’ve seen in the nets he bowls some really good balls,” stand-in captain Steven Smith said on Wednesday. “He was pretty consistent when he was bowling in Dubai and in the nets here.”That’s kind of all you’ve got to do in these conditions, just try and bowl as many good balls in a good area and let the conditions take over.”Connolly’s inclusion also underlines bolder selections from Australia’s hierarchy who have shown a willingness to experiment ever since picking 19-year-old Sam Konstas for the Boxing Day Test against India.Cooper Connolly receives his debut cap from Simon Katich•Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

With Australia’s spot in the World Test Championship final secured, Connolly edged veteran Glenn Maxwell for a spot on the Sri Lanka tour having made his T20I and ODI debuts in the backend of last year. Undoubtedly, selectors have an eye towards the future – Australia’s next tour of India is just two years away – but they will insist his selection in the second Test is a decision based on specific conditions.At this stage of his fledgling career, Connolly is certainly a much stronger batter and adds significant depth to Australia’s order at No. 8. He has already scored three half-centuries from his six first-class innings, starting with 90 off 115 balls on debut at No. 7 in last year’s Shield final between WA and Tasmania.It was an elegant knock on a tricky WACA surface that instantly drew comparisons to former WA great Shaun Marsh. But given his all-round skills and X-factor ability, with an uncanny knack of hitting the most mesmerising shots, Connolly has been likened to Maxwell and Travis Head.”It’s pretty cool to be honest. You dream of it as a kid watching them smack it around,” he told ESPNcricinfo last December about the comparisons to Maxwell and Head. “I feel proud of myself… it’s a dream to put on a baggy green.”