Tag Futebol

“It’s clear to see anyone would feel bad or feel hurt about those decisions. You’re out there playing to win, giving it your all and it seems like everyone is against you”

Andrew McGlashan28-Jun-20250:47

Hazlewood tears through West Indies’ top order

West Indies’ new captain Roston Chase has doubled down on criticism of umpiring decisions that went against his team during the opening Test against Australia, believing they had a significant impact on the outcome of the game.Coach Daren Sammy came out strongly after the second day’s play and raised concerns about the work of TV umpire Adrian Holdstock. The major decisions to anger West Indies were the dismissals of Chase, lbw when there was a possible inside edge, and Shai Hope to a brilliant catch from Alex Carey after the pair had put together a 67-run stand which took West Indies to 139 for 5 in reply to Australia’s 180. There was also a caught-behind decision against Travis Head on the opening they felt should have been out.The contest remained even at the start of the third day when Australia led by just 82 with six wickets in hand but it turned into a comprehensive 159-run defeat for West Indies.Related

'I hold no grudges' – Sammy moves on from TV umpire debate

Sammy fined for criticising third umpire Holdstock

Hazlewood's five helps Australia surge to victory inside three days

Sammy 'looking for some clarity' as contentious TV umpiring decisions pile up

Head, Carey, Webster show the way to Australia top order

“This game is a frustrating one for me and for the team because we bowled out Australia for a relatively low score. We were very happy with that,” Chase said. “But then there were so many questionable calls in the game and none of them went our way. I mean, as a player, you’re out there, you’re giving your all, you’re fighting. And then nothing is going your way.”It could be heartbreaking. You see what set batters can do on the wicket. The wicket is one where once you get in, you can get runs, but the hardest part is to get in. Me and Shai Hope were going well and then, obviously, we had some questionable calls. That really set us back in terms of creating a big lead on the total that Australia set.””It’s clear to see anyone would feel bad or feel hurt about those decisions. You’re out there playing to win, giving it your all and it seems like everyone is against you.”Chase called for more accountability on umpires for poor decisions, although the ICC has an annual assessment process in place which can see international umpires removed from the elite panel based on performance.”It’s frustrating because as players, when we mess up, when we get out of line, we’re penalised harshly,” Chase said. “But the officials, nothing ever happens to them. They just have a wrong decision or questionable decision and life just goes on.1:12

Cummins lauds middle order: ‘Those three were brilliant’

“You’re talking about guys’ careers. One bad decision could make or break a guy’s career. I just think that it should be an even playground in terms of when players step out of line, they’re penalised. I think that there should be some penalty put in place when you have blatant decisions going against you.”I think it was a big factor in the game because me and Hope were going well. We even had a catch that went against us in the first innings when we were bowling. So, you never know what the score could have been, but I don’t want to harp on it.”The catch referred to by Chase was when Head, on 53, edged through to Hope where it was taken low down and Holdstock ruled it not out. Head only added a further six runs. Australia, meanwhile, thought they should have had an lbw against Chase in the first over of the second day but it was ruled to be an inside edge.Pat Cummins said there would be no issues raised about the umpiring from the Australians. “We appeal [and] if we think it’s close, use DRS and leave the rest up to the umpires,” he said. “In some games, there’s a lot of 50-50 calls. Today we missed a few 50-50 calls that went against us. I think it’s cricket. I think it all balances itself out.”Both Chase and Sammy would appear to run the risk of ICC sanction for the comments about the match officials.Unlike umpiring decisions, something squarely in West Indies’ control is their catching and in Barbados they shelled seven chances, the last of them early on the third day when Head was dropped by Justin Greaves at second slip on 21 with Australia’s lead only 97.”There’s nothing I can say to justify the guys dropping the catches,” Chase, who spilled one himself on the first day, said. “We’ve been working hard on the slip catches. Every day, we try to take at least 30 to 40 catches. But practice and in the game is a big difference.”I just think it’s more a belief. From the time one goes down, I think guys tend to get a bit nervous and second guess their catching ability, and sometimes it can throw you off. But once you put one down, you have to look forward to taking the next one.”

Manchester United have faced managerial uncertainty recently and Fabrizio Romano has delivered an update on developments that could follow at Old Trafford.

Manchester United pressure on Ruben Amorim eases a little

Supporters of Manchester United will be the first to tell you that this season hasn’t all been plain sailing so far. However, Ruben Amorim looks to have bought himself more time after helping to deliver a competent 2-0 victory over Sunderland.

After some turbulent results, the Red Devils rounded off the international break with a display that showed signs of recovery, alongside some excellent performances, notably from Senne Lammens. Optimism will now start to flow ahead of the Premier League return.

ESPN FC pundit Steve Nicol took time to praise Amorim’s side for their ‘comfortable’ performance, claiming that the win was the first match in a long time where nobody would’ve been able to ask any questions of Manchester United.

He stated: “I bet you, Amorim wishes every Saturday could be like this. I can’t remember the last time we watched Manchester United, home or away, where there wasn’t at some stage, some sort of drama, whether it’s giving a lead away, or whether it’s a comeback or or whether it’s just rubbish.

“I mean, for the first time ever I can remember in recent memory, there’s nothing to say about this Man United side. It was comfortable. As soon as Mount scored, they never looked in any danger.”

Nevertheless, consistency needs to be the focus for Manchester United after the break; otherwise, there will be a return of familiar rumours linking other managers to Amorim’s role at the club.

Speaking of which, Romano has now delivered an update on one man who could be a candidate to succeed the former Sporting boss if he does end up being relieved of his duties.

Romano: Man Utd are on good speaking terms with Gareth Southgate

Communicating on his YouTube channel, Romano confirmed that Manchester United hold an excellent relationship with Gareth Southgate, though he conceded that they are heading into the international break feeling far more comfortable with Amorim at the helm after Saturday’s triumph.

He said: “Man Utd were not going to sack Amorim even if Man Utd were going to lose the game against Sunderland. Even in that case, he was not going to be fired. That was the plan of Man Utd unless completely crazy things happened, like losing, I don’t know, 3 or 4 or 5-0. But, for example, losing the game, I don’t know, 1-0, 2-1, 3-2, something like that – Amorim was not going to be fired.

“I spent basically the last 10 days telling you that Gareth Southgate was in the media, but there was never a concrete negotiation between Man Utd and Southgate or his representatives. There is a very good relationship between Southgate and INEOS, but never a negotiation. And Man United wanted to show their support to Amorim.”

Amorim was always likely to gain an extended crack of the whip off the back of a victory. Still, Southgate would be an astute plan B option should results begin to head south over the coming months.

The 55-year-old retained a 59.8% win ratio in charge of England and has previously been labelled “ruthless” by John Stones. On the flip side, the main concern over him taking over at Old Trafford would be the fact he hasn’t managed in the Premier League since 2009.

Middlesbrough fans will remember him well for stabilising the club in the top flight. Nevertheless, managing Manchester United is an entirely different kettle of fish, an honour Amorim seems set to retain for now.

Leeds United have now reportedly made the decision to allow an “impressive” player to leave the club when the January transfer window arrives.

Farke provides Leeds injury updates before Bournemouth

The Whites face a tough assignment in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon, hosting a Bournemouth side who have impressed greatly so far this season.

Speaking ahead of the game, Leeds manager Daniel Farke provided a “mixed” injury update, with Jayden Bogle’s return to full training a clear positive.

“Overall in terms of injuries, some mixed news. So with Jayden [Bogle] good news, he is back in team training. It was nothing too serious, just a bruise was a bit sore and painful in the first few days. But since yesterday [he is] back in team training so he will be available if nothing major happens.

“Some good news with Daniel James, so progress with his rehab. Yesterday was the first time he joined us in team training and he has a chance to be involved depending on how his body reacts right now to the load of training, so we will take a late decision with him.

“Some bad news with Willy Gnonto, he won’t make it. So still some problems with his calf, he is not back in team training so he will definitely also miss the match. I hope to have him back in team training next week.”

Farke will likely know his starting lineup for Saturday’s match, but it looks like one squad player may not be at the club for too much longer.

Leeds expected to sell Meslier in January

According to a new update from TEAMtalk, Leeds will look to sell goalkeeper Illan Meslier in January, having fallen out of favour between the sticks under Farke. Serie A giants Inter Milan are said to be “leading the race” to snap him up.

It is claimed that the Whites “would accept a modest fee, potentially just covering the remainder of his contract, to avoid losing him for free next summer”.

Selling Meslier, who was once worth £50m, in January makes perfect sense, considering he has dropped down the pecking order at Leeds, clearly no longer being seen as a key man, following too many errors last season.

It feels like the right time for a new challenge for all parties, even though the Frenchman is a talented player who is still young for a ‘keeper, with Farke praising him earlier this year.

“He is focused every day, pretty settled and concentrated. It’s what you have to do in a side that dominate many games. Sometimes he has to be there with a first save after 60 minutes, pretty switched on. Compliments to his good work, played a major part, many clean sheets, number of clean sheets, pretty impressive.”

He can steal #9 from DCL: Leeds star looks like the best since Archie Gray

Leeds might have another gem on their hands to rival Dominic Calvert-Lewin…

ByJoe Nuttall Sep 26, 2025

Meslier can still go on to enjoy a good career, but his aforementioned mistakes last season have seen Leeds supporters lose faith in him, and his time at Elland Road has simply reached its natural conclusion.

In a move that would solve one of Nuno Espirito Santo’s problems, one Sky Sports writer has been left wowed by reports that Nottingham Forest have opened talks to sign a Champions League-level star.

Nuno outlines Nottingham Forest problems

Just two weeks ago, Espirito Santo wouldn’t have even received a mention in the Premier League’s sack race, let alone be in pole position. But after revealing that his relationship with Evangelos Marinakis isn’t what it once was, the Nottingham Forest boss is suddenly at risk of being shown the door at the City Ground.

Reports even had to reiterate that he would be in charge for Forest’s trip to face Crystal Palace last weekend. That’s how bad things suddenly became. And since then, it has become clearer that Espirito Santo’s main problem lies with the involvement of sporting director Edu Gaspar, who only made the move to work with Marinakis this year.

Given that Espirito Santo recently reaffirmed his position as Nottingham Forest manager, it seems like Marinakis now has a decision to make between two key components at the club. The question that he must face is whether to choose his manager or sporting director.

It should also be said that there is potentially time to solve this problem in a less dramatic way. Speaking to reporters last weekend, Espirito Santo outlined his transfer demands as deadline day approaches, saying: “We need three players – one more goalie and two full-backs because we cannot live with the fear of if something happens to Ola (Aina) and Neco (Williams).”

Now, in a step in the right direction, reports are suggesting that the former Tottenham Hotspur boss could be about to see at least one of those demands met before the deadline.

Nottingham Forest in talks to sign Geertruida

As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Nottingham Forest are now in talks to sign Lutsharel Geertruida from RB Leipzig in a late move that has left Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley stunned.

With talks underway between Forest and Leipzig regarding the versatile fullback, Critchley took to X, formerly Twitter, to say: “Nottingham Forest going after Lutsharel Geertruida now… wow.

“Capable of playing at right back and centre back, his move to Leipzig hasn’t worked out quite as well as expected… But prior to Bradley’s emergence at Liverpool I always thought he’d be an excellent addition there.

Dream for Ndoye: "Deal on" as Nottingham Forest step up move for £10m star

Nottingham Forest could soon sign a dream teammate for Dan Ndoye by purchasing another £10m talent.

By
Kelan Sarson

Aug 28, 2025

“For me he’s a Champions League level player. Douglas Luiz, Arnaud Kaliumendo, James McAtee, Omari Hutchinson and now Lutsharel Geertruida… Forest have really gone for it in the last couple of weeks! Nuno can’t complain about not being backed… whether all these signings were his idea rather than Edu’s is another question!”

Aston Villa’s Premier League campaign gets underway on Saturday lunchtime, as they host Newcastle United at Villa Park. Unai Emery will be hoping for a positive start to the season against a side who have become a big rival in recent seasons, with the Magpies pipping the Villans to a Champions League spot.

It seems like just one new signing is all Villa will take into the game. Evann Guessand made the move to the West Midlands from OGC Nice for £30m, and aside from a backup goalkeeper and young centre-back Yasin Ozcan – who has since moved out on loan – they have been largely inactive this summer.

Yet, new rumours are swirling about more signings, and whilst they won’t be complete before the weekend, Emery will surely want them through the door soon.

Villa’s next targets

One of the names the Villans are linked with is Marco Asensio. The Spaniard, who was on loan at Villa Park last term, could return to the club in a deal worth just £13m this summer. However, it is not necessarily at an advanced stage.

Transfer Focus

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

According to a report from Football Transfers, the Villans ‘have held talks’ with Premier League rivals Arsenal over the signing of versatile attacker Leandro Trossard. ‘Initial discussions’ took place earlier this week, with the power in Tossard’s hands ahead of a decision on his future.

Interestingly, Villa were keen on a move for the player in January, and whilst he was not for sale then, there is now a possibility of a move several months on.

As for a price for the forward, Arsenal could demand as much as £18m to sell him to their top-flight rivals.

Why Trossard would be a good signing

There is no doubt that adding an experienced player such as Trossard to the Villa squad would be a benefit to Emery. The Belgian is an established Premier League star who has had a huge impact in European football, too.

Last season, the 30-year-old had another important role to play for the Gunners, featuring 56 times across all competitions. He bagged ten goals and registered ten assists, with 16 of those goal involvements coming in the Premier League.

One of the standout features of Trossard’s game is his versatility. The Belgian forward can play right across the frontline, which Mikel Arteta relied on last term. He played on both flanks, as a number nine and as a second striker just off the centre-forward.

Even if Villa miss out on signing Asensio this summer, Emery might well find his new version of the Spaniard in Trossard. The former Real Madrid star played 21 times for the Villans last season, scoring eight times and assisting once.

One of the main similarities between him and Trossard is the versatility they offer. Last term, Asensio played on the right flank and as a number 10 for the Villans. He has also played on the left wing and even led the line at times in his career.

Their European pedigree is also impressive. Trossard has played far less in the Champions League than the four-time winner Asensio, with 23 appearances to his 73. However, with eight goal involvements and an average of one every 2.8 games, it is better than Asensio’s goal or assist every 3.6 games. The Spaniard has 20 in total to his name.

The stats from last season’s Champions League campaign further highlight just how deadly the players are in Europe. For example, Trossard created 1.1 chances and completed 18.7 passes in the opposition half last each game last season, compared to Asensio’s 0.7 chances created and 19.4 passes in the opposition half per 90 minutes.

Described as an attacking “wizard” by journalist Charlie Haffenden, Trossard would bring cutting-edge, versatility and European pedigree to the Villa team.

In that sense, he is certainly similar to Asensio, who may not return to Villa Park. He could well become Emery’s new version of the PSG star.

For just £18m, this could be a bargain for Villa as they look to add to the quality of their squad next season.

Guessand will love him: Aston Villa lead race to sign "incredible" £22m ace

The dynamic international could be perfect for Aston Villa and Guessand…

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Aug 13, 2025

While they didn’t exactly kick off their Premier League campaign in style, Chelsea got back on track with their thumping win away to West Ham United on Friday night.

The fans will be expecting Enzo Maresca’s side to do even better than last season this year, and rightly so, as the board have more than done their part over the last few months by significantly strengthening the side.

The likes of Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens, Jorrel Hato and more all look like great buys, and with a week to go until the window slams shut, the West Londoners seem intent on bringing in more talent.

One of the players who now seems almost sure to join the club is Alejandro Garnacho, although if reports are to be believed, the Blues could be set to sign another international ace who’d keep him out of the team.

Chelsea target Garnacho upgrade

Chelsea’s interest in Garnacho has been a longstanding one, with reports touting him for a move to the club back in the winter window.

Transfer Focus

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

Things have significantly progressed this summer, though, with the Manchester United ace reportedly rejecting other clubs to join the Blues, so long as a deal can be worked out between the two sides.

The Madrid-born gem would undoubtedly add dynamism and more of a goal threat to Maresca’s squad, but it now looks like the West Londoners are closing in on another attacker, someone who’d surely keep him out of the team.

At least that is according to a recent report from Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, which has reaffirmed Chelsea’s interest in Xavi Simons.

More than that, though, the report has claimed that, on top of already having an agreement with the player, the player will try to secure his move to the Bridge before deadline day.

In other words, the West Londoners are trying to bring the RB Leipzig star to Stamford Bridge this week, and while no price is mentioned in the story, reports from earlier this summer claim that an offer of £61m should be enough to seal the deal.

That is certainly a lot of money to spend on one player, but given Simons’ ability and potential, he’d be worth it, even if he’d keep Garnacho out of the team.

Why Simons would keep Garnacho out of the team

Unfortunately for Garnacho, while he is a versatile player who can thrive in attacking midfield and off the left, so can Simons.

In fact, the Flying Dutchman has shown himself to be even more versatile than the Argentine, as on top of playing in the middle and off the left, he has spent time off the right and up top.

In other words, the United ace would almost certainly be in competition for game time with the Leipzig star, and based on the last season or so, we’d pick the latter every time.

For example, when it comes down to their raw output, there is just no competition.

In his 33 appearances for the German outfit last year, totalling 2763 minutes, the unreal “game-changer,” as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, scored 11 goals and provided eight assists.

That means he was able to maintain an average of a goal involvement every 1.73 games, or every 145.42 minutes.

In contrast, the 21-year-old Red Devils ace scored 11 goals and provided ten assists in 58 appearances, totalling 3568 minutes, last term.

That comes out to a notably worse average of a goal involvement every 2.76 games, or every 169.90 minutes.

The comparison is just as, if not more, one-sided when we take a look under the hood, at their underlying numbers.

Non-Penalty Goals + Assists

0.67

0.33

Progressive Passes

5.86

2.30

Progressive Carries

3.56

5.78

Key Passes

2.13

1.52

Passes into the Final Third

3.31

0.90

Passes into the Penalty Area

2.51

1.02

Shot-Creating Actions

4.52

3.40

Goal-Creating Actions

0.50

0.25

Tackles Won

0.88

0.74

Blocks

0.79

0.78

Clearances

0.79

0.45

Successful Take-Ons

1.38

1.07

Here, the former Paris Saint-Germain gem comes out comfortably ahead in most relevant metrics, such as non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive passes, shot and goal-creating actions, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, from their output to their underlying numbers, there is nothing that suggests Garnacho is even on the same level as Simons.

Therefore, as they play in the same positions on the pitch, it seems almost certain that the latter will keep the former out of the Chelsea team this season.

He's their next Palmer: Chelsea ace has held talks over leaving the Bridge

Chelsea really are having a summer clearout as this rising star looks set to be the next to leave.

1 ByKelan Sarson Aug 25, 2025

There is supposedly a “good chance” that Dele Alli heads to Wales as a free agent, with Wrexham and Swansea both being credited with interest.

Ex-England international released by ComoProven performer but lacking a sparkLinked with ambitious Championship teamsFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Ex-England international Dele finds himself without a club after seeing his contract at Como terminated. He made just one substitute experience during a troubled spell in Serie A, which ended in a red card being picked up, and has been alarmingly short on game time across the last two-and-a-half years.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Another fresh start is now being speculated on, with the 29-year-old expected to return to his homeland after flopping in Italy. With memories of what he once produced at Tottenham beginning to fade, Dele faces the prospect of having to step away from top-flight football.

DID YOU KNOW?

Teams in the EFL are said to be mulling over an approach, with Wrexham, Swansea and West Brom all in the mix. Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are pulling the strings at SToK Racecourse, while Luka Modric and Snoop Dogg form part of the ambitious Swans’ ownership team.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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

GettyTELL ME MORE

Explaining what happens next, report: “There is a very good chance that Dele Alli ends up in the Championship and that could very well be in Wales. Wrexham have shown an interest, they know there is a talent there and Phil Parkinson wants quality in this squad. But there is interest elsewhere in Wales with Swansea also keen. Alli knows he needs to pick the right club and there are a few in the Championship.”

Nottingham Forest have now identified an “unstoppable” Premier League player as their top target for the summer transfer window, according to a report.

Forest causing a stir in the transfer market

This summer certainly hasn’t been a boring one for the Tricky Trees, controversially replacing Crystal Palace in the Europa League, given the Eagles’ issues surrounding multi-club ownership, before going on to make headlines as a result of their behaviour in the transfer market.

Sky Sports News have now revealed that Forest have written to both Tottenham Hotspur and Morgan Gibbs-White’s agents threatening legal action, as they believe an illegal approach was made for one of their key players.

However, with Gibbs-White reportedly informing owner Evangelos Marinakis that he wants to join Tottenham this summer, it remains to be seen whether he ultimately ends up making the move to north London regardless.

Nottingham Forest have a battle on their hands trying to keep hold of the attacking midfielder, but they also have their own transfer business to worry about, and a report from The Telegraph has revealed they have now identified a new top target.

The player in question is Aston Villa attacker Jacob Ramsey, who is capable of playing at both left-wing and in attacking midfield, indicating that he could potentially be brought in as a replacement for Gibbs-White.

Given his versatility, there is a feeling Ramsey could also be capable of playing across Nuno’s forward line, with the manager looking to bring in players capable of helping his side push for another high finish in the Premier League.

However, there could be competition for the 24-year-old’s signature, with Everton and West Ham United retaining an active interest.

"Unstoppable" Ramsey could be coup for Forest

A deal for the Villa star may be on the expensive side, with Forest’s Premier League rivals set to hold out for at least £30m, but there are plenty of signs that he could be worth shelling out for.

Jamie Carragher has been left very impressed by the Englishman in the past, with the Sky Sports pundit saying: “He is a machine this fella. You see him open up his legs and run. He almost looks unstoppable.”

Aston Villa now set to make move for £17m ace, keen to finalise deal quickly

The Villans are “ready” to finalise a move for a defender…

ByDominic Lund Jul 15, 2025

The 2022-23 campaign was arguably the Birmingham-born attacker’s best, picking up 13 goal contributions in the Premier League, although he remained a key player for Unai Emery last term, featuring regularly in the Champions League.

With Forest set to embark on a European adventure of their own next season, they could do with bringing in players who have top-level experience, meaning Ramsey could be a solid addition to Nuno’s squad.

Payne, Matt Taylor share six wickets before Bancroft, Hammond romp in simple chase

Alan Gardner14-Sep-2024

Gloucestershire claimed their maiden T20 title, and West Country bragging rights into the bargain, as they crushed defending champions Somerset in a one-sided Blast final at Edgbaston. An eight-wicket margin of victory, sealed by Ollie Price’s six over long-on with 30 balls to spare, told the story as Gloucestershire marched to their first piece of silverware since 2015.It was a night of many heroes for Gloucestershire. Miles Hammond’s unbeaten 58 from 41 led them home, having put on a raucous century stand with Cameron Bancroft, after the bowlers had blown Somerset away. David Payne, Gloucestershire’s stalwart attack leader, capped a remarkable campaign with 3 for 27 to take his tally to 33 and equal Alfonso Thomas’ longstanding record for an English T20 season. Matt Taylor, with 29 wickets himself, was the catalyst as he picked off three of Somerset’s top four on the way to figures of 3 for 18.For the second Finals Day running, all four teams came from the South Group. Gloucestershire arrived as the underdogs, having squeaked through in fourth place on net run-rate – but after seeing off Birmingham Bears on their own patch in the quarter-final, they returned to Edgbaston to demolish Sussex in the second semi, then took apart their cider country rivals with another inspired bowling performance. Somerset’s bid to become the first team to successfully defend the Blast title fell at the final hurdle, hopes of a domestic treble brusquely shelved in the process.Gloucestershire’s success was made all the more poignant by the presence of club president, David “Syd” Lawrence, the former England fast bowler who was diagnosed earlier this year with motor neurone disease. It was also a rousing performance from a county who have had their struggles, facing financial insecurity and battling in the wrong half of Division Two in the County Championship. But Mark Alleyne, in his first season back as head coach, has steered a side featuring eight homegrown players to a memorable T20 success.Chasing the dream
Somerset’s wicket-taking prowess was behind their 2023 victory, when they defended 145 in the final against Essex. But they were even lighter on runs this time around and could not conjure the early breakthroughs required to jangle Gloucestershire nerves.Bancroft drove his third ball, from Craig Overton, through the covers, launched the same bowler over long-on in the third over and then ramped Josh Davey all the way for six at the start of the fourth. Lewis Gregory, whose half-century carried the fight as one of only three Somerset players to reach double-figures, brought himself into the attack for the final over of the powerplay and was promptly dispatched for three boundaries as Gloucestershire raced to 49 for 0.Gloucestershire had twice beaten Somerset when chasing during the group stage but both of those games were helter-skelter affairs. This was clinical, though not entirely business-like, as Hammond channelled the mood in the Hollies Stand by belting Jake Ball and Roelof van der Merwe for sixes to speed Gloucestershire towards their target.Bancroft struck van der Merwe for back-to-back fours to raise a 39-ball half-century, before Hammond went to the mark from 36 balls in the following over, clouting Ben Green over long-on for another serene six. No team had ever won the T20 final by a ten-wicket margin and Somerset saved themselves from that ignominy by dismissing Bancroft and James Bracey. But the result was already in the post.Taylor-made start for Gloucs
Somerset were looking not only to make history by winning back-to-back T20 titles, but become the first team since Worcestershire in 2018 to lift the trophy after coming through the first semi-final. Having been inserted, Somerset got off to a decent start – certainly better than the 7 for 3 after 2.1 overs they managed earlier in the day – as Payne’s first two overs cost 19, only to come unstuck against Gloucestershire’s other left-armer.Matt Taylor is less heralded than Payne but barely less effective, and he struck three times in his first two overs. His first ball induced a slash to backward point from Will Smeed, before a clever change of pace saw Tom Kohler-Cadmore, who had hit Payne for two sixes in the previous over, miscue high into the off side. When James Rew, in the third T20 knock of his professional career, punched uppishly to the diving Bancroft at short cover, Taylor had startling figures of 3 for 7.Three down at the end of the powerplay, things got worse for Somerset. Sean Dickson had been their matchwinner in the semi – and top-scored in both games at last year’s Finals Day – but departed for a golden duck this time around, missing a reverse-sweep at Ollie Price’s second delivery. Somerset were 42 for 4 and up against it.Gregory can’t soothe Somerset Payne
In the absence of Dickson, Gregory stepped into the firefighter role. He and Tom Abell ticked over initially, taking the score to 63 for 4 at halfway, before the captain began to play some shots in an attempt to give Somerset something defendable. The left-arm spin of Tom Smith was targeted, Gregory clubbing six straight back down the ground before lofting the next ball over extra cover. Abell was less successful taking the aerial route, however, as he drove Tom Price down the throat of long-on to end a stand worth 44.Gregory continued to carry a threat, again clearing the ropes off Smith before a swivel-pull off Tom Price took Somerset’s innings into three figures. But the return of Payne to bowl the 16th over tipped the scales in Gloucestershire’s direction again – two consecutive slower deliveries accounting for Ben Green and Craig Overton leaving the defending champions up the River Rea without a paddle at 105 for 7. In the process, Payne overtook Hampshire’s Chris Wood as the most-prolific seamer in the history of English domestic T20.Gregory lost another partner when van der Merwe sent a flying edge straight into Bracey’s outstretched right glove, but raised a fighting fifty off 33 balls with a nudge for one off Matt Taylor. He was dropped at the start of the 19th, Ben Charlesworth unable to cling on to a diving effort running in from the cover boundary, but became Payne’s third wicket four ball later when he picked out long-off.

Match details

Afghanistan vs Bangladesh
June 24, Kingstown, 8:30pm local

Big picture – race to the semi-finals

It’s the last Super Eight game of the T20 World Cup 2024 and it’s open season as far as the fourth semi-final spot is concerned, with Afghanistan and Bangladesh, who will be out in the middle, and Australia, who can at best wait and watch, all in the fray.Here’s what will do it for each of them:

• It’s simple for Afghanistan – win and get into the semi-finals; lose and they are out, since their NRR will stay below Australia’s even with a super-over defeat.
• Australia are done with their games with a net run-rate of -0.331. They get into the semi-finals if Bangladesh win but Bangladesh’s and Afghanistan’s NRR remain below theirs.
• For Bangladesh to go through, they need to win by 62 runs (having scored 160, say) or win in 12.5 overs (chasing 160), which will take their NRR above that of the other two.
• There’s rain around, of course, and shared points do the job for Afghanistan.

But facing Afghanistan are a down-on-their-luck Bangladesh side, after two meek defeats against India and Australia.Related

• Naib flexes muscle as Afghanistan exorcise ghosts of Mumbai 2023

• Scenarios: How Afghanistan's win opens up Group 1

• Afghanistan show they are more than just their spinners

It has been another dream run for Afghanistan in a World Cup. They had fought hard in the 50-over tournament in India last year, only to finish in sixth place. This time, they have roared through the group stage, and although there were hiccups against West Indies and India, Afghanistan’s landmark win against Australia has put them right back into contention for the semi-finals.Openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran complement each other, and they added their third century stand of the competition against Australia. That Afghanistan did not rely solely on their spinners in their historic win was also pleasing for them. Gulbadin Naib, who has bowled in only three out of 11 T20I matches this year, stunned Australia with a four-for, with Naveen-ul-Haq chipping in with three. This sort of performance frees up Rashid Khan from always having to deliver the knockout punches while also keeping things tight.Bangladesh’s batting has also struggled significantly at this T20 World Cup. The top order has the lowest collective average among the Super Eight teams. Their middle-order is also showing signs of wear and tear, which has led the team management to tinker with the fast-bowling line-up to bring in the extra batter.2:01

Trott: ‘Nice feeling to know what’s needed to qualify’

Form guide

Bangladesh LLWWL
Afghanistan WLLWW

In the spotlight – Gulbadin Naib and Shakib Al Hasan

Gulbadin Naib was the eighth bowler against Australia, but he ended up taking his maiden four-wicket haul in T20Is in that game. He has been around for 12 years now and only recently made his IPL debut for Delhi Capitals. Needless to say, he is high on confidence.By his standards, this year’s T20 World Cup has mostly been a forgettable one for Shakib Al Hasan. He has scored one half-century, while it took him four matches to get his first wicket. Shakib became the first bowler in the tournament’s history to reach 50 wickets, but has only taken three at an average of 37 in this edition. He hasn’t batted high enough and Shakib’s bowling too hasn’t been properly utilised. Could this be Shakib’s swansong in the T20 World Cup?

Team news – Bangladesh might bring Taskin or Shoriful back

Bangladesh could go back to Taskin Ahmed or Shoriful Islam to replace Jaker Ali. Afghanistan are likely to go in unchanged at the same venue where they beat Australia.Bangladesh (probable): 1 Tanzid Hasan, 2 Litton Das (wk), 3 Najmul Hosain Shanto (capt), 4 Towhid Hridoy, 5 Shakib Al Hasan, 6 Mahmudullah, 7 Jaker Ali/Taskin Ahmed/Shoriful Islam, 8 Rishad Hossain, 9 Mahedi Hasan, 10 Tanzim Hasan, 11 Mustafizur RahmanAfghanistan (probable): 1 Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), 2 Ibrahim Zadran, 3 Azmatullah Omarzai, 4 Karim Janat, 5 Rashid Khan (capt), 6 Mohammad Nabi, 7 Gulbadin Naib, 8 Nangeyalia Kharote, 9 Noor Ahmad, 10 Naveen-ul-Haq, 11 Fazalhaq FarooqiShoriful Islam could replace Jaker Ali in Bangladesh’s XI•ICC/Getty Images

Pitch and conditions

Teams batting first have won every game in Arnos Vale, including Bangladesh defending 106 against Nepal. Afghanistan will also have a fair measure of the pitches after their 21-run win against Australia. Weather, however, may not be great as there’s some rain forecast.

Stats that matter

• Naib became the first bowler in the T20 World Cup to take a four-wicket haul after coming into the attack as the eighth bowler
• Gurbaz and Ibrahim now have three century opening stands in the T20 World Cup, the most by a pair
• Tanzim Hasan and Rishad Hossain have 11 wickets apiece, equalling Shakib’s tally from 2021 for the most wickets in an edition for Bangladesh

Quotes

“It’s a nice feeling to have that fact that we’re playing the last game as well. You will know exactly what the scenario is and then what’s needed to win. That’s always a nice feeling. But I think with cricket, so many things are thrown in and so many results can go against you or for you. So, we’ve just got to focus on our match against Bangladesh and when all the other matches are played. We’ll know what we need to do and the decisions we need to make.”
“One thing you’ve got to acknowledge is you can’t fight genetics. You have to have a genetic predisposition to power initially. But power is something that takes a lot of time. If you’re not predisposed to being strong… West Indians don’t have to find power. They’re born with power. We’re not born with power, so we have to do it a different way. We’re looking at the strength and conditioning element, we’re looking at different things of how we can do it a Bangladeshi way.”