Fourth-wicket stand with Jake Libby keeps quarter-finals in sight as Asa Tribe’s unbeaten century goes in vain

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay22-Aug-2025

Worcestershire 298 for 5 (Jones 110*, Libby 77) beat Glamorgan 297 for 7 (Tribe 122*, Hurle 56) by five wicketsA career-best List A score of 110 not out from Rob Jones guided Worcestershire Rapids to an important five-wicket win over Glamorgan which keeps them on track for a quarter-final place in the Metro Bank One Day Cup.Asa Tribe had earlier batted through Glamorgan’s innings for 122 in his side’s impressive total of 297 and the visitors looked to be in control early in the reply as they reduced the hosts to 78 for 3.A staggering fourth-wicket partnership of 172 between Jake Libby (77) and Jones anchored the run chase for Worcestershire, as they swung the momentum back in their favour. Jones hit the winning runs in the 49th over.Glamorgan’s bright start in the sunshine was only blemished by the loss of Eddie Byrom for 41.Youngster Henry Hurle caught the eye with some expansive shots, scoring 14 off one Ethan Brookes over as the side bottom of Group A passed 100 in the 20th over.Hurle and Tribe took a liking to a lacklustre Rapids bowling seam attack, as the pair brought up their respective half-centuries in consecutive overs, with Tribe showing his particular disdain towards any short pitched bowling, thrashing the ball through midwicket with frequency.The second-wicket stand of 104 was ended by Brett D’Oliveira, who bowled Hurle for an impressive 56, as Worcestershire seized the initiative, taking three more wickets for just 26 runs.Kieran Carlson was the first in a cluster of three wickets to fall, as he succumbed to Ben Allison, before D’Oliveira (2 for 46) picked up his second wicket of an instrumental spell.Waite’s metronomical afternoon with the ball saw him rewarded when Billy Root feathered a full ball behind to Henry Cullen, as the medium-pacer ended his spell shortly after with outstanding figures of 10-2-23-1.Dan Douthwaite joined the not-out opener, and upped the ante from the get-go, taking Glamorgan beyond the 250 mark, before Tribe notched his maiden List A century with the final ball of the 46th over.Douthwaite’s cameo of 37 from 26 balls was cut short at the death, but Tribe was unbeaten on 122 to see his side finish on an above par 297 for 7.Despite losing D’Oliveira in the first over, the hosts made an otherwise positive start to the chase, largely due to a composed knock for 19-year-old Dan Lategan, that took Worcestershire past fifty without further damage.The 17th over of the proved costly however, as the home side lost both set batters – with Carlson taking a stunning one-handed catch at extra cover to remove Kashif for 22, before a catastrophic mix-up involving Jake Libby saw Lategan run-out four short of a maiden List A fifty.The onus fell on Libby and new man Jones to guide the home side out of their troubling position at 78 for 3, with Glamorgan looking to take advantage of their early wickets.Both batters shouldered the responsibility in fine style, with Jones returning to form and Libby making his way to a fourth fifty of the competition.Their 172-run partnership was ended when Andy Gorvin took a fine catch running back over his head to dismiss Libby for 77, with the departing skipper’s side still requiring 48 from the final six overs.Jones brought up a sensational 101-ball hundred with the chase nearing its climax, but even the departure of Ethan Brookes in the dying stages did not deter the home side, as Cullen batted through with Jones to see the Rapids to a crucial five-wicket victory.

However, if he’s picked in India’s squad for the Asia Cup, Shubham Rohilla will replace him for the zonal tournament

ESPNcricinfo staff07-Aug-20252:40

Gill: England-India series a great learning curve for me

India’s Test captain Shubman Gill will lead North Zone in the 2025-26 Duleep Trophy, which will kick off the domestic season in Bengaluru later this month.Seamers Anshul Kamboj and Arshdeep Singh, who were recently part of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, were also named in the North Zone squad. Harshit Rana, who made his Test debut in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy last year, will add more depth to North Zone’s seam attack.However, if Gill, Arshdeep or Harshit get picked in India’s squad for the Asia Cup, Shubham Rohilla, Gurnoor Brar and Anuj Thakral will replace them for the Duleep Trophy. The Asia Cup, which will run from September 9 to September 28 will overlap with the Duleep Trophy, which will start on August 28, with the final scheduled between September 11 and 15.Ankit Kumar, who was the top scorer for Haryana with 574 runs in 14 innings at an average of nearly 59 in the previous Ranji Trophy season, was appointed North Zone’s vice-captain. His Haryana team-mate Nishant Sindhu, the left-arm spin-bowling allrounder, also found a place in the squad.Apart from Harshit Rana, Yash Dhull, the former India Under-19 World Cup-winning captain, and Ayush Badoni are the only Delhi players in the squad. The trio is currently in action in the second season of the Delhi Premier League T20 tournament.Related

Kuldeep, Khaleel in Jurel-led Central Zone squad for Duleep Trophy

Tilak Varma to lead South Zone

Iyer, Sarfaraz in West Zone squad

Mohammed Shami in East Zone squad

Five players from Jammu & Kashmir made the cut for the Duleep Trophy, including opener Shubham Khajuria and seamer Auqib Nabi, who was the second-highest wicket-taker in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy, with 44 wickets in eight matches at an outstanding average of 13.93.Services’ Ravi Chauhan and Chandigarh’s Nishunk Birla are among the stand-bys.The Duleep Trophy has reverted to its traditional format of a zonal contest after a season where four teams – A, B, C and D – comprising players in the Test fray were picked by the Ajit Agarkar-led senior men’s selection committee. Teams for this year’s tournament will be picked by zonal selection committees, comprising one member from each of the state sides from the zone.North Zone will play the domestic season’s opening game against East Zone from August 28 at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.North Zone squadShubman Gill (capt), Shubham Khajuria, Ankit Kumar (vice-capt), Ayush Badoni, Yash Dhull, Ankit Kalsi, Nishant Sindhu, Sahil Lotra, Mayank Dagar, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, Kanhaiya Wadhawan (wk)Replacements: Shubham Rohilla to replace Gill, Gurnoor Brar to replace Arshdeep and Anuj Thakral to replace Harshit in case of any India commitments during the tournament.Stand-bys: Shubham Arora, Jaskaranvir Singh Paul, Ravi Chauhan, Abid Mushtaq, Nishunk Birla, Umar Nazir, Divesh Sharma

Inter president Beppe Marotta has candidly admitted that while a return for former Manchester United and Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho was "mentioned," as the club searched for a new manager, he would have ultimately "regretted hiring him." Marotta praised the "courageous" decision to appoint Christian Chivu instead, highlighting the club's commitment to different values and a forward-thinking approach over relying on big-name managers.

• Marotta discusses Chivu appointment over Mourinho speculation

  Marotta has revealed that Mourinho's name was among those considered for the coaching role before the "courageous" decision was made to appoint Chivu. Speaking at the executive master's program in "Sports Management" organized by the RCS Academy Business School, Marotta explained why he ultimately favored Chivu, despite Mourinho's illustrious past with the Nerazzurri.

  According to Gazzetta.it, Marotta stated: "I'm surprised people were surprised by Cristian's skill. We chose him because he represents important values; he had the courage to go against the grain, even in the media. Some even mentioned Mourinho, who, with all due respect… If I hadn't had the courage, I would have regretted it."

  Mourinho, who famously led Inter to a historic treble in 2010, was reportedly a name floated by "some" stakeholders, indicating a natural inclination among some to revisit a successful past. However, Marotta's comments suggest a deliberate decision to move in a different direction, prioritizing new leadership and values.

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  Chivu's impressive start and tactical philosophy

  Chivu, who took over from Simone Inzaghi, has navigated a challenging start to his tenure at Inter, ultimately guiding the team to the top of Serie A and a perfect record in the Champions League. His initial period included three defeats in Serie A, but the team has since recovered impressively.

  Under Chivu, Inter are currently in first place in Serie A alongside Gian Piero Gasperini’s Roma, demonstrating a rapid turnaround in league form. In the Champions League, their performance has been particularly strong, boasting four wins out of four matches played and conceding only one goal. This triumphant march in Europe contrasts sharply with the earlier domestic stumbles, showcasing Chivu's ability to adapt and motivate his squad.

  Marotta's praise for Chivu's "skill" and "courage" aligns with the team's visible progress. Chivu has been credited with introducing a "different football philosophy," which Marotta believes aligns with the club's evolving values. This new approach appears to be focused on developing talent and fostering a collective spirit rather than relying solely on individual star power.

• Inter's evolving philosophy: sustainability over big names

  Marotta used the platform to discuss the significant changes in modern football, particularly the shift from a "patronage model" to one demanding "sustainability" and "financial balance." He emphasised that the equation "if I spend, I win" is no longer valid, citing PSG as an example of a club that has changed its model from "huge names" to investing in "young talent."

  This philosophical shift is directly linked to the decision to back Chivu over a high-profile manager like Mourinho. Marotta highlighted the importance of "motivation multiplied by competence" as the new formula for success. His career path, starting as a "mascot" for Varese and learning to "negotiate" for a tracksuit, underscores his belief in hard work and organic growth, values he sees in Chivu.

  Marotta also touched on the increasing complexity of football management, which now involves "criminal, civil, and sports justice codes," and requires "industrial and financial expertise" alongside traditional sporting knowledge. He stressed the importance of leadership that is "courageous, persevering, and must listen," attributes he clearly sees in Chivu.

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• Marotta's personal reflections on a long career and San Siro's future and modern stadium concepts

  During his address, Marotta shared personal anecdotes from his extensive career in football. He recalled a pivotal moment in 1983 when then-Inter president Pellegrini offered him a junior manager role, an offer he declined. "If I had accepted, I wouldn't be president today," he mused, emphasising the importance of timing and managing career progression calmly.

  He also recounted a difficult decision during his time at Sampdoria where he had to fire a "very dear friend," Gianfranco Bellotto, to bring the club back to Serie A. This story illustrates the tough choices leaders often face, prioritising the club's objectives over personal relationships.

  Marotta concluded his speech by addressing the contentious issue of San Siro's future. While acknowledging the "bitterness and nostalgia" for old romantics, he stressed the necessity of a new, modern stadium for Inter's future. He entered San Siro for the first time in 1966 and described it as a "vessel of enormous emotions," but argued that innovation and modernity are paramount.

  "Renovation was unthinkable, and so it ended up being demolished. But it must be done," he asserted. Marotta highlighted the need for a stadium that prioritizes "security, which is lacking; hospitality, so you can be there all day with entertainment of all kinds; and a sense of belonging. Having your own home." He projected the financial benefits of a new stadium, contrasting Inter's current €80 million (£68m/$88m) per year from matchdays with Real Madrid's goal of exceeding half a billion.

Over recent years, Tottenham Hotspur’s work in the transfer window has often left a lot to be desired, with numerous additions often failing to meet expectations.

The hierarchy has started to splash some serious cash on new talent over the past few seasons, but not all of them have managed to win over the supporters in North London.

Tanguy Ndombele is arguably the biggest example of their failures in the transfer market, with the board paying £63m for his signature back in the summer of 2019.

The French international arrived with huge expectations given the fee, but ultimately struggled to adapt to the demands of the Premier League – racking up just over 90 appearances before being released in 2024.

In the present day, Thomas Frank could have his own version of the midfielder, especially if one first-team member is unable to match his own expectations with the Lilywhites.

Xavi Simons’ dismal start to life at Tottenham

During the summer window, new boss Frank made it clear he wanted a new attacking midfielder to help bolster his Spurs first-team squad for the 2025/26 campaign.

Morgan Gibbs-White was just one name constantly touted with a switch to North London, with Eberechi yet another player who was firmly on their radar during the off-season.

The former of the duo stayed at Nottingham Forest, while the latter rejected the Lilywhites in favour of a fairytale return to join boyhood club outfit Arsenal – a move that no doubt stung the Spurs faithful.

As a result, a £52m fee was forked out for the signature of Xavi Simons from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, with the 22-year-old the man chosen to provide the goods for Frank’s men.

Two months on from his big-money switch to England, the Dutchman has so far failed to live up to expectations – as seen by his tally of just one goal or assist in his first 12 outings.

His lack of form saw Frank even bench him against Chelsea, but he was quickly introduced into the game after Lucas Bergvall was forced off with a head injury.

However, his start to life in North London was summed up in the 73rd minute, after the substitute was substituted – further highlighting his lack of talent at present.

No doubt he will need time to flourish in the Premier League, but rapid impact is what has been needed from Simons, but ultimately, he’s struggled to match the expectations placed on his shoulders.

The Spurs player who’s becoming one of their worst signings

Given the European triumph at the back end of 2024/25, there was a real sense of urgency for Spurs to build on their success and rise up the table under Frank’s guidance.

However, after three home league defeats in just five matches this season, there are numerous cracks starting to appear during the early months of the Dane’s tenure.

Djed Spence and Micky Van de Ven were both pictured ignoring the manager after the final whistle, even storming off the pitch without applauding the supporters in North London.

Their frustration will no doubt have been caused by the defeat against their city rivals, with the Lilywhites looking toothless in their attempts to secure bragging rights.

Frank’s men achieved a measly total of just 0.05 expected goals during the contest, with striker Randal Kolo Muani unable to have the desired impact in the final third.

The Frenchman joined the club on a season-long loan from PSG on deadline day last summer, even paying a reported £5m to take him on a temporary basis in 2025/26.

After he netted 10 goals in just 22 appearances at Juventus last season, such a move generated huge excitement – like Simons – but like the midfielder, he’s massively struggled in England to date.

His start against Enzo Maresca’s side was just his second for the club, but his performance showcased why the manager has chosen other options over him at the top of the pitch.

The 26-year-old featured for 73 minutes before being withdrawn from the contest, only achieving a total of 16 touches in that time frame – showcasing his lack of impact on proceedings.

Minutes played

73

Touches

16

Passes completed

5

Possession lost

7x

Shots taken

0

Dribbles completed

0

Duels lost

50%

Touches in opposition box

0

Kolo Muani also only registered a total of five passes completed, even failing to register a single shot on goal and losing possession seven times – a tally over 50% of his total touches in the defeat.

Other figures, such as 100% dribbles incomplete and 50% aerial duels lost, further showcase his lack of positive impact, with his substitution certainly justified on Saturday.

It’s evident that the player is yet to get to grips with the demands of the Premier League, with frustration already being shown by the supporters towards him, alongside Simons.

The pair have so far failed to deliver, potentially bringing the club’s spending spree into question once again, given their recent failures under Frank’s guidance.

They still have time to turn things around in North London, but if they continue in the same vein, there’s little doubt that they will go down as some of the worst additions in the club’s history.

As bad as Simons: Frank must drop Spurs dud who lost the ball 23 times

Tottenham Hotspur laboured to a dismal 1-0 defeat against Chelsea.

3 ByMatt Dawson Nov 2, 2025

Alex Crook, chief football correspondent at talkSPORT, has provided an update on rumours linking Bruno Lage with a return to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Last December, Wolves hired Vitor Pereira to replace Gary O’Neil, who had nearly steered the club into a relegation battle. Through a strong run of form and sense of unity in the second half of the season, Pereira guided Wolves away from the bottom three, ultimately finishing comfortably within the confines of mid-table.

Across the summer, Wolves lost important players, including Rayan Ait-Nouri, Nelson Semedo and Matheus Cunha. As has often been the case in recent years, the Midlands side replaced them with players who were not of the same calibre, which has hampered their 2025/26 campaign.

After 10 games in the Premier League, Wolves remain without a win and have just two points. Pereira, despite signing a new contract just weeks ago, was sacked at the start of November, sparking a hunt for Wolves to find their new manager.

O’Neil had been linked with what would’ve been a sensational return, only to pull himself out of contention. Other names include Erik ten Hag, no stranger to the Premier League following his tenure as Man United manager. In his latest job, however, the Dutchman was sacked by Bayer Leverkusen after just three matches.

Elsewhere, a boss that Wolves are particularly acquainted with has been linked with a return to the Premier League.

Lage reportedly on Wolves' radar

In recent days, Wolves have been linked with a move for former manager Bruno Lage. The Portuguese first joined Wolves in 2021, replacing Nuno Espirito Santo at the helm. Despite a promising start, form ultimately faltered under Lage, who was dismissed in late 2022.

Since then, Lage has worked in both Brazil and his native Portugal, having last been in charge of Benfica, who sacked him in September. Given his status as a free agent, Lage’s links to a Wolves reunion are understandable, though it appears that there is little truth to the rumours.

It remains unclear who will be the next manager of Wolves, though a reunion with either O’Neil or Lage now appears impossible. Given how their respective tenures ended, it may suit the club to pursue a manager that has no prior links at Molineux.

"World-class" manager wants talks with Wolves

West Indies had nothing going for them coming into this second T20I on a balmy evening in Lauderhill. They had won just two of their last 19 completed T20Is, which included the forgettable 5-0 loss to Australia at home. They had put down multiple catches in the first T20I. Rovman Powell joined Brandon King, Evin Lewis and Shimron Hetmyer on the injury list, Andre Russell and Nicholas Pooran had recently said their goodbyes, and the three-match series was on the line.If not for a comprehensive team effort, West Indies were looking for something, a semblance of a spark, any individual brilliance to turn things around amid the mounting pressure in the build-up to the T20 World Cup next year. It came, the individual brilliance, and from one of the oldest members in the squad.At the age of 33, a body that has been through the rigours of 12 years of international cricket as a pace-bowling allrounder, participation in nine T20 leagues around the world and a shoulder rehab not too long ago among other injuries, Jason Holder became West Indies’ highest wicket-taker in the format, took stunning figures of 4 for 19, pouched two sharp catches, and hit the winning runs when West Indies had lost all their batting steam and needed three to win off one.Related

• Cricket West Indies works on roadmap with 'about a hundred things to improve'

• Road to 2026 World Cup begins as big guns assemble for T20I leg

• Rovman Powell ruled out of T20I series against Pakistan with wrist injury

• Holder's 4 for 19 and last-ball heroics keep series alive

What was Holder going to remember the most from this day? “Just getting over the line, to be honest,” he said on being named the Player of the Match. “As I said before, it’s been a tough couple of weeks for us. We just needed a win. We brought it down to the very end, unfortunately. But fortunately, we still got over the line.”The most pressure-cooker situation of those must have been when he got the strike back against Shaheen Shah Afridi in the last over of the chase with six to get from three balls. Holder had Shamar Joseph at the other end, and still, inexplicably, took a single when he couldn’t put away a low full toss. Shamar, for his part, gave the strike back and it all came down to Holder to hit four runs off the last ball to keep the series alive. He shuffled away to off, Afridi bowled the full delivery well wide of him outside off and the wide signal eased Holder’s nerves a little. Next delivery, Holder covered the stumps and this time when Afridi aimed for the stumps, Holder swiped it away behind square for four.The ball had barely left the 30-yard circle and you could hear Holder’s shriek of celebration on the stump mic before the camera turned to him with his arms aloft, accompanied by a roar of celebration. Holder explained what their chasing strategy was when he was batting with Romario Shepherd and they needed 36 from 18.”I told Romario when we were batting, we needed at least four sixes with the scenario that was posed to us. We got three. We fell probably one short, but we still got over the line. That was our target. Just keeping wickets in hand, obviously, but still trying to hit our strong areas and find the boundary.Jason Holder’s last-ball heroics took West Indies over the line•AFP/Getty Images

“We are powerful players and we know we can find the boundary. But credit to the Pakistani bowlers as well. I thought they bowled really well.”Earlier in the day, Holder had also given West Indies an early lift that also pegged him higher in the record books. Sharing the new ball with Akeal Hosein, Holder struck with his sixth ball when he had the in-form Saim Ayub edge behind and it took him level with the T20 legend Dwayne Bravo on the list of most wickets for West Indies in T20Is. On his third ball after what he later called “just a statistic,” Holder had Sahibzada Farhan, the other opener, slicing to deep point for 3. Even when he wasn’t bowling, the ball found it hard to stay away from Holder.When Mohammad Haris went across the line against Hosein in the next over and failed to get the distance for a six, Holder ran back from mid-on, as much as he could, and stretched his long arms with his bucket hands to grab the ball in the nick of time. Pakistan were now three down early and Holder had played a hand in each of those wickets. But Pakistan were not done yet, and hardly did they know that neither was Holder.Captain Salman Agha and their young basher Hasan Nawaz had put together a quick stand of 60 in just over six overs to power Pakistan past 100, when Holder was brought back. Hasan had just pumped three consecutive sixes in the 15th over, but Holder, who had shown his wares in the middle and death overs in the PSL a few months ago, got Hasan in a tangle, completed the return catch and followed it with his fourth wicket in his last over.”I love playing for West Indies, to be honest,” Holder said. “One of my things is to leave West Indies cricket better than they came and found it. I still think there’s a lot of work to be done. We haven’t done justice to our potential over the last couple of weeks, maybe the last couple of years. We’ve had a fair bit of criticism, which at times is warranted, but we know that winning can be a lot better. We’ve just got to put it together more often than not.”I think [lack of] consistency has definitely plagued us, but we’ve seen that over the years that we can do it. For me, it’s just to have that burning desire to make a change, to make a difference. So I keep putting in my best effort when I get a chance with the West Indies.”

FOR THE second consecutive year, MLB’s class of free agents is headlined by one crowned jewel.

Juan Soto’s production through his age-25 season puts him in a cohort with players like Mickey Mantle, Mike Trout and Albert Pujols. For anyone who thought Shohei Ohtani’s record-breaking $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers signed last year would hold up, Soto and agent Scott Boras had other ideas. The generational hitter made history with a 15-year, $765 million deal with the New York Mets that sent shockwaves throughout the sport.

While Soto's historic contract is the headliner of the offseason and beyond, there’s a lot of intrigue in this year’s free agency class. There’s plenty of options for shoppers in tax brackets high and low, with starting pitching as usual in high demand.

In ranking the 50 best free agents available, factors like past recent production, age, health history and position scarcity were taken into consideration. And, as has become tradition, we’ll be making signing predictions for each player in our top 50, with each team meriting at least one mention even though it’s highly unlikely certain small-market teams will cash out the dough to swim in this part of the free agent pool.

Without further ado, let’s get to the list.

The Athletics announced a unique jersey sponsor for their temporary stay in Sacramento over the next three seasons. Friday night, the team revealed "Las Vegas" patches that will sit on the sleeves of all jerseys as the A's begin their journey outside of Oakland.

According to MLB.com A's reporter Martín Gallegos, the franchise entered a three-year marketing partnership with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) as their “Official Travel Destination Partner.”

A new stadium for the team is scheduled to be ready for the team's planned move to Las Vegas in 2028. The A's posted new renderings of the stadium Thursday. Construction is scheduled to break ground in June.

Athletics owner John Fisher called the LVCA partnership and Las Vegas jersey patch "the beginning of the transition" to the team's new home.

“This is a chance to wear our hearts on our sleeves for the next three years before bringing the vibrant spirit of our new home front and center across our uniform,” Fisher said via MLB.com.

The A's will play at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, Calif. as they await their new Las Vegas stadium. The Sacramento River Cats, the Triple A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, play their home games at Sutter Health Park, which they will now share with the A's.

Although Sin City won't have its new Major League ball club for a few seasons, Fisher clearly wants the Athletics to begin the association with their future home after the departure from Oakland.

For now, the team is just the "Athletics." But they found a somewhat odd way to embrace their future in the interim.

New South Wales

Captain Jack Edwards
Coach Greg ShipperdSquad Sean Abbott, Charlie Anderson (R), Pat Cummins (CA), Joel Davies, Oliver Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Matt Gilkes, Ryan Hadley, Liam Hatcher, Josh Hazlewood (CA), Ryan Hicks (R), Riley Kingsell (R), Sam Konstas (CA), Nathan Lyon (CA), Nic Maddinson, Blake Nikitaras, Jack Nisbet, Kurtis Patterson, Josh Philippe, William Salzmann, Tanveer Sangha, Jake Scott (R), Lachlan Shaw, Steven Smith (CA), Mitchell Starc (CA), Charlie Stobo, Chris Tremain, Adam Zampa (CA)CA = Cricket Australia contract | R = Rookie contractIn Charlie Stobo (WA), Riley Kingsell, Jake Scott
Out Jackson Bird (Tasmania), Chris Green, Ryan Hackney, Moises Henriques, Daniel Hughes, Hayden Kerr (Queensland)Last season FourthHow they shape upThey were in the mix for the final into the last round but ultimately finished with one win fewer than the previous season. The loss of Jackson Bird to Tasmania leaves a significant hole in the pace attack after he claimed 34 wickets at 17.20. They will hope Charlie Stobo can help fill the breach and will look to Liam Hatcher, Jack Nisbet and Ryan Hadley to grow.Kurtis Patterson’s resurgence was one of the stories of the season and he led the run-scorer followed by Sam Konstas either side of his dramatic Test debut. However, they were the only two batters to average more than 34 (aside from Ben Dwarshuis in one outing) while the return of Nic Maddinson fell flat as he averaged 17.80 so more will be expected of him alongside greater returns from Josh Philippe – whose positive start faded last season – and Ollie Davies, the only player to appear in all 10 games.Related

• Australia's Ashes 'bat-off' begins: Who could open against England?

• 'Haven't achieved much at all' – Harris' message as South Australia defend twin titles

• Labuschagne launches with a century: 'Nothing else matters but runs'

Player to watchIf he can put together a strong season, 25-year-old Jack Edwards, who is the NSW captain in both formats, will be pushing for an international call-up. He will feature for Australia A in both formats against India A having averaged 33.46 with the bat and taking 29 wickets 24.03 with the ball last season – certainly the right way round for an allrounder. If he can lift the batting numbers closer to 40 it will be a compelling case. He is also a brilliant slip fielder.Australia impactKonstas will be front-and-centre of the early-season bat-off, with the outcome of that to determine whether NSW have him for the whole pre-BBL stretch. They are likely to get good use out of Nathan Lyon before the Ashes with the offspinner in line for at least three outings – he will also captain the opening game – then he should be available again in February given he isn’t in Australia’s T20 plans. How much Steven Smith plays before the Ashes is still to be confirmed, but now that he’s not in Australia’s white-ball sides he could have significant availability.Pat Cummins’ back injury makes it unlikely he will make a rare Shield appearance, but Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood could squeeze in a game before facing England. Sean Abbott’s scheduling could need some juggling given he is part of the white-ball sides and he will be in the frame as an Ashes reserve as well. Edwards, Tanveer Sangha and Lachlan Shaw will miss the opening round while on Australia A duty in India.Marnus Labuschagne needs Shield runs for Queensland to build his Ashes case•Getty Images

Queensland

Captain Marnus Labuschagne
Coach Johan BothaSquad Lachy Aitken (R), Tom Balkin (R), Xavier Bartlett (CA), Max Bryant, Hugo Burdon, Jack Clayton, Lachlan Hearne, Usman Khawaja (CA), Marnus Labuschagne (CA), Angus Lovell, Michael Neser, Jimmy Peirson, Jem Ryan (R), Matthew Renshaw, Gurinder Sandhu, Jack Sinfield, Mark Steketee, Tom Straker, Mitch Swepson, Callum Vidler, Hugh Weibgen, Tom Whitney, Jack WildermuthCA = Cricket Australia contract | R = Rookie contractIn Tom Balkin, Zanden Jeh, Hayden Kerr (NSW)
Out Liam Guthrie, Ben McDermott, Bryce Street, Connor SullyLast season Runners upHow they shape upHaving squeezed into the final amid a congested table, when they reduced South Australia to 28 for 3 chasing 270 it looked as they would emerge as champions despite being bowled out for 95 in their first innings. In the end, however, they had to settle for second but that was an improvement on the previous season’s bottom place albeit with only one more victory.The squad hasn’t seen too much change, the most significant movement being Ben McDermott’s request to leave and return to Tasmania where he doesn’t hold a contract. Jack Clayton and Jimmy Peirson led the batting last season with over 600 runs apiece while Usman Khawaja was productive when available until struggling in the final. It was a mixed season for Matt Renshaw who despite two centuries only averaged 29.17.The loss of the exciting Callum Vider to a stress fracture is a blow to their early-season plans but in Tom Whitney and Tom Straker they have two more promising young quicks, although the former is also carrying an injury. Ideally, legspinner Mitchell Swepson needs to take his wickets at a lower figure than last season’s 49.26Player to watchIn the first part of the season, at least, a lot of attention will be on Marnus Labuschagne and whether he can win back his Test place for the Ashes. While he will be in contention to open against England he is expected to continue to bat at No. 3 for Queensland who could benefit from a highly-motivated player. His last Shield century came in October 2022, although due to his international schedule that only represents nine matches.Australia impactAhead of the Ashes selection call, Labuschagne may miss a round of matches due to the ODI series against India. Khawaja will play a game or two, but it remains to be seen what route his career takes following the Test summer after last season’s tensions with the state and whether he calls time.Xavier Bartlett will go from Australia A duty to the T20I tour of New Zealand and will continue to be around the white-ball set-up. Should the Test side need reinforcements Michael Neser’s name could be in the frame. Renshaw has made a strong case to be considered for Australia’s one-day side but seems a fair way down the list for Test cricket. Straker is with Australia A’s 50-over side so will miss the first round of Shield as will late call-up Lachlan Hearne.Brendan Doggett will lead the attack as he pushes for an Ashes berth•Getty Images

South Australia

Captain Nathan McSweeney
Coach Ryan HarrisSquad Wes Agar, Jordan Buckingham, Aidan Cahill (R), Alex Carey (CA), Brendan Doggett, Daniel Drew, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Mackenzie Harvey, Travis Head (CA), Douwtjie Hoogenboezem (R), Henry Hunt, Hanno Jacobs, Spencer Johnson, Thomas Kelly, Jake Lehmann, Ben Manenti, Harry Matthias (R), Nathan McAndrew, Conor McInerney, Nathan McSweeney, Harry Nielsen, Lloyd Pope, Jason Sangha, Liam Scott, Campbell Thompson (R), Henry ThorntonCA = Cricket Australia contract | R = Rookie contractIn Hanno Jacobs (NSW), Douwtjie Hoogenboezem
Out Harry Conway, Kyle BrazellLast season ChampionsHow they shape upHow do you follow last season? By aiming to do it again, according to head coach Ryan Harris. Now South Australia have that winning feeling they want to channel it into more success. One of the notable aspects of their title was hard far ahead of the pack they were in the regular season: six wins from 10 matches and 16 points more than second place.They retained a very stable list with Hanno Jacobs adding some more depth to the pace-bowling options. Three batters passed 700 runs in the 2024-25 season with Alex Carey doing so in just five matches and Jason Sangha six. Opener Henry Hunt also contributed three centuries, although his overall average was just 31. Their pace attack, led by Nathan McAndrew and Brendan Doggett, is impressive although the latter will miss the opening match with a hamstring niggle.Player to watchJason Sangha thanked South Australia for saving his career after a resurgent run which culminated in him hitting the winning runs in the final. Over the winter he has scored a career-best double century for Australia A against Sri Lanka A. He remains some way down the pecking order, but more of the same volume of run-scoring in the first part of the season won’t go unnoticed. And, having just turned 26, if it doesn’t happen this season he still has plenty of time.Australia impactCarey should get at least a couple of outings ahead of the Ashes but Travis Head’s availability will be limited by white-ball internationals. Jake Fraser-McGurk has slipped down Australia’s pecking order and there is a keenness for him to string together some red-ball cricket, but he needs to find a spot in the XI. He will be in India with the Australia A side during the opening round.Doggett could be around the Test squad once the Ashes starts so he will likely have his workload managed. If either Nathan McSweeney or Sangha go on an early-season run-scoring surge they could come into the selectors’ calculations. Liam Scott will miss the first round with Australia A in India.All eyes are on Tasmania opener Jake Weatherald•Getty Images

Tasmania

Captain Jordan Silk
Coach Jeff VaughanSquad Marcus Bean, Gabe Bell, Jackson Bird, Iain Carlisle, Nick Davis (R), Jake Doran, Kieran Elliott, Nathan Ellis (CA), Bradley Hope, Matt Kuhnemann (CA), Caleb Jewell, Raf MacMillan (R), Riley Meredith, Lawrence Neil-Smith, Aidan O’Connor (R), Mitch Owen, Will Prestwidge, Nivethan Radhakrishnan, Jordan Silk, Billy Stanlake, Charlie Wakim, Tim Ward, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster (CA), Mac WrightCA = Cricket Australia contract | R = Rookie contractIn Marcus Bean, Jackson Bird (NSW)
Out Jarrod FreemanLast season FifthHow they shape upTasmania were one two-run loss away from making a second straight Shield final last season. They have strengthened their squad over the off-season with the addition of Jackson Bird who is only 34 wickets shy of becoming the second highest wicket-taker in Shield history. Their attack looks strong with Gabe Bell, Kieran Elliott, Riley Meredith and Billy Stanlake set to give them plenty of options to mix, match and manage across the season alongside Test spinner Matt Kuhnemann.The batting is deep too with Jake Weatherald, Tim Ward, Caleb Jewell, Jordan Silk and keeper Jake Doran as the mainstays plus Beau Webster will be available around his Test duty and Mitch Owen around his Australia white-ball duty. Brad Hope is an able back-up allrounder who can fit in when needed. They will be tough to beat in all conditions and have some excellent depth behind that which includes seasoned players like Charlie Wakim and Mac Wright as well as youngsters in Nivethan Radhakrishnan, Aidan O’Connor, Raf MacMillan and Marcus Bean.Player to watchJake Weatherald will be one of the most closely watched players in the country at the start of the Sheffield Shield season as he vies for a Test debut in the Ashes. In theory he should not have anything to prove after last season and his Australia A performances in the winter but last season was an outlier against his career record and early season performances would allay any doubts about his worthiness to open the batting for Australia in Perth.Australia impactTasmania will miss Owen and Kuhnemann in the opening round of the season due to Australia’s short T20I tour of New Zealand and Owen will likely miss the first four rounds due to the two India series that follow. Nathan Ellis’ red-ball availability will be limited and it is unlikely he will be called upon at all. Webster is set to be available for the first four rounds but may be rested at some point depending on his workload and then he will miss rounds five and six if selected in the Test squad. But he will return for the second half of the summer. The same applies for Weatherald if he is selected in the Ashes but that is an unknown at the start of the season.Campbell Kellaway celebrates his second Shield century•Getty Images

Victoria

Captain Will Sutherland
Coach Chris RogersSquad Austin Anlezark (R), Liam Blackford, Scott Boland (CA), Dylan Brasher, Ashley Chandrasinghe, Xavier Crone, Harry Dixon, Sam Elliott, Peter Handscomb, Sam Harper, Marcus Harris, Campbell Kellaway, Jai Lemire, Blake Macdonald, Glenn Maxwell (CA), Cam McClure, David Moody, Todd Murphy, Fergus O’Neill, Oliver Peake (R), Tyler Pearson (R), Mitch Perry, Tom Rogers, Matt Short (CA), Callum Stow (R), Will Sutherland, Doug WarrenCA = Cricket Australia contract | R = Rookie contractIn Blake Macdonald, David Moody, Oliver Peake, Callum Stow
Out Peter Siddle (retired), Will Pucovski (retired), Jon Merlo, Josh Brown, Reiley MarkLast season ThirdHow they shape upVictoria’s best side will be very strong again having narrowly missed the final last year but their depth will be tested, especially with the ball given Scott Boland will have limited availability and they have lost the experience of Peter Siddle who was invaluable as a replacement for whenever Boland was absent last year. The batting is a superb mix of youth and experience with three of the most exciting young top order prospects in the country in Campbell Kellaway, Harry Dixon and Oliver Peake to be settled around the experience of Marcus Harris and Peter Handscomb. Dixon looks set to open, although he will miss round one with Australia A duty. When that happens, Harris may slide to No. 3 despite being a candidate to open for Australia in the Ashes.Matt Short may add some dynamism when he does not have Australia white-ball duties while the first-choice attack of Boland, Fergus O’Neill, Will Sutherland and Todd Murphy looks as good as any in the competition when fully fit and available. The likes of Cam McClure, Xavier Crone and Sam Elliott will have to step up at times when Boland is absent while Victoria need a big season out of wicketkeeper Sam Harper as their lower order batting has been fragile at times in recent years.Player to watchCampbell Kellaway took a major step forward in the second half of last season scoring centuries against Queensland at the Gabba and Western Australia at the WACA, the latter an unbeaten 165 to set up victory in the final round. He also made scores of 80, 79 and 77 in two games against eventual Shield winners South Australia and 55 against a NSW attack that featured Mitchell Starc, Sean Abbott, Jackson Bird and Nathan Lyon on a tricky MCG pitch. Those performances got him into the Australia A side and he made 88 against India A in India recently. He is down the list Test candidates for now but a hot start to the summer will vault him up the queue very quickly.Australia impactSutherland, Dixon and Elliott will all miss the opening Shield round because of Australia A duty in India but Boland is set to play the first match against South Australia. How many he plays after that before the first Test remains to be seen but there is a hope he can feature in at least one more before the first Test. He should be fine for the second half of the season though.Short’s availability is the other unknown. He could be available for rounds four to six but it may depend how his body is after three consecutive white-ball series against New Zealand and India. He is likely to be part of Australia’s T20 World Cup squad which may also see him miss most of the second half of the season.Cameron Green could play three of the first four Shield rounds for WA•Getty Images

Western Australia

Captain Sam Whiteman
Coach Adam VogesSquad Cameron Bancroft, Mahli Beardman, Simon Budge (R), Hilton Cartwright, Cooper Connolly, Brody Couch, Keaton Critchell, Joel Curtis, Albert Esterhuysen (R), Sam Fanning, Cameron Gannon, Cameron Green (CA), Jayden Goodwin, Aaron Hardie, Liam Haskett, Baxter Holt, Josh Inglis (CA), Bryce Jackson, Matthew Kelly, Mitch Marsh (CA), Lance Morris (CA), Joel Paris, Jordan Quiggin (R), Jhye Richardson (CA), Corey Rocchiccioli, Ashton Turner, Corey Wasley (R), Sam Whiteman, Teague WyllieCA = Cricket Australia contract | R = Rookie contractIn Mahli Beardman, Joel Curtis, Simon Budge, Albert Esterhuysen, Jordan Quiggin
Out Hamish McKenzie, D’Arcy Short, Charlie Stobo (NSW), Sam Greer, Josh VernonLast season SixthHow they shape upTwelve months ago WA were gunning for a historic fourth straight title. This season they start as the defending wooden-spooners, albeit they still nearly made a Shield final last year despite finished sixth on a congested table. They are still laden with talent and their best XI is international quality. But managing the comings and goings of their Australia and Australia A representatives whilst keeping some continuity in their team will be the key.The batting will be strong with Cameron Bancroft and Sam Whiteman back healthy again and Hilton Cartwright is the bedrock of the middle-order while young keeper Joel Curtis has started the season in exceptional fashion in the Dean Jones Trophy. Add in Cameron Green for up to three of the first four games and it is an imposing batting order. The attack will be well led by Joel Paris, Cameron Gannon and Corey Rocchiccioli while the return of Matt Kelly from injury is a welcome addition. But it gets a little thin thereafter with Lance Morris out for the whole year and Jhye Richardson recovering slowly, while exciting youngster Mahli Beardman is unlikely to play any red-ball cricket in the first half of the season coming off stress fractures.Player to watchCameron Bancroft is the forgotten man in the race to fill an opening spot for the Ashes. At the start of last season he was one of the favourites to fill the vacancy against India but endured a horrid run of form early in the summer. He is coming off a good winter for Gloucestershire in all forms and returned early from England to get a brief rest before setting himself for a new summer. His technique hasn’t changed but he knows how to score big runs in Shield cricket and anyone scoring runs early in the season will be looked at for the Ashes.Australia impactFew states have as many moving parts to navigate as WA. Green’s availability in the early part of the summer has changed several times but he could play Shield rounds one, three and four for WA and bowl in a couple of them under restrictions, but he may also be absent for round two and possible round three due to ODI duty. Josh Inglis is injured at the moment but when fit is likely to be away for most of the summer on Australia duty.Mitch Marsh is notionally available for rounds four, five and six after Australia’s white-ball series against India but it remains to be seen whether he plays any red-ball cricket this summer. Cooper Connolly will miss the first round with Australia A duty but should be right for round two unless he is called up for ODI cricket. Aaron Hardie is recovering from a shoulder injury but may play quite a bit for WA if Australia don’t pick him for the India white-ball series.

In search of an attacking spark, Everton have now reportedly joined Newcastle United in the race to sign young Brazilian star Allan Elias from Palmeiras in 2026.

The Toffees have endured an inconsistent season so far, but entered the international break off the back of a routine 2-0 victory over Fulham. For the most part, David Moyes’ side have shown potential, albeit without blowing teams away.

It must be said, however, that their weakness has been clear since the beginning of the campaign. Everton just can’t get their strikers going on the goal front. After making Thierno Barry one of their most expensive signings, those in Merseyside would have at least expected a goal or two by now. So far, though, he’s yet to find the back of the net.

Meanwhile, Beto is also struggling. The towering forward showed glimpses of promise last season – especially under Moyes – but has so far scored just two goals in 13 games in all competitions.

The Friedkin Group are seemingly running out of patience with their strikers, too. Recent reports have claimed that Everton are interested in adding to their attack in the January transfer window, with Joshua Zirkzee and Daizen Maeda both linked.

The latter would be a particularly impressive signing, given that he scored 33 goals for Celtic at his best last season. Now apparrently keen to leave the Scottish club, Everton could reportedly land a deal for just £15m.

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Alas, the Japan international isn’t the only attacking spark on the Toffees’ shortlist, and they could also make some improvements to those providing the service for Beto and Barry. Fresh headlines in Brazil have suggested that those at the Hill Dickinson Stadium now want a South American gem.

Everton join race to sign Allan Elias

According to reports in Brazil, via Sport Witness, Everton have now joined the race to sign Allan ahead of Newcastle. The 21-year-old has impressed for Palmeiras, assisting eight goals in the current campaign, and could yet ignite Moyes’ frontline.

For many, Allan will be an unknown talent, but it’s worth noting the impressive performances that he enjoyed from the bench at last summer’s Club World Cup. Squaring off against the likes of Chelsea and Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami, the young Brazilian more than held his own.

The 21-year-old has also earned plenty of praise during his time at Palmeiras, with manager Abel Ferreira telling reporters: “It’s difficult to leave names like Veiga, Mauricio and Murilo out, but Allan comes in and gives a great dynamic. A machine.”

Claims that Palmeiras have inserted a release clause worth as much as €100m (£88m) in Allan’s contract shows just how highly they rate him and that could provide a problem for Everton.

As much as Friedkin were willing to spend big last summer, they mainly spent on proven European talent rather than gambling on the unknown. At this stage, it seems unlikely that the Toffees would spend £88m on Allan.

"Brilliant" Everton target asks to leave Celtic as Friedkin enter £15m race