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Southampton decided to part ways with head coach Will Still after the former Lens boss only won two of his 13 matches in charge of the club in the Championship.

Interim manager Tonda Eckert has won both of his league games in the dugout so far, including a 3-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday last time out, but it remains to be seen what the future holds for him.

Irrespective of what happens now, Eckert has delivered back-to-back wins that were much-needed after a dismal start to the campaign, which led to Still’s dismissal.

Why Will Still was unfortunate to be sacked by Southampton

The Belgian-born tactician won two of his 13 league matches and averaged 0.92 points per game, per Transfermarkt, which is why it was not a surprise to see him lose his job.

However, per FotMob, Southampton rank sixth in the table for xPTS and are currently 11 places lower in the division than they would be if every game was decided by who created the higher-quality chances.

Of course, football is not played on paper and it is, ultimately, a results-based business, but these statistics suggest that performances from individuals let him down, as the Saints have underperformed their xG and conceded more than their xGA suggests that they should have.

Manager Focus

Who are the greatest coaches in the land? Football FanCast’s Manager Focus series aims to reveal all.

Whilst it is hard to know what goes on behind the scenes, perhaps Still was unable to motivate a team to win consistently, as he finished between 11th and 8th in his three seasons as a manager in France, which means that he is not used to competing at the very top of a league.

This is why Southampton could find a major upgrade on the former Lens boss by hiring reported target Brendan Rodgers as their new manager during the break.

Why Southampton should hire Brendan Rodgers

The Northern Irish manager resigned from the Celtic job last month and he could be the dream appointment for the Saints if they can convince him to drop down to the Championship.

Rodgers, who was once dubbed “world-class” by Gabriel Agbonlahor, may have the perfect track record for the situation that Southampton find themselves in, because he has experience in the Championship, the Premier League, and the Premiership.

The 52-year-old coach won promotion via the play-offs with Swansea in the 2010/11 campaign, which is relevant for where the club is now, and helped them to stay up with an 11th-placed finish in the Premier League the following season, which should be Southampton’s long-term goal.

As you can see in the table above, Rodgers is a proven Premier League manager who has excelled at Swansea, Liverpool, and Leicester City in the top-flight, which is why he would be the perfect appointment for now and in the future.

On top of that, the Northern Irishman is also a proven winner. Per Transfermarkt, he won four Scottish Premiership titles, four Scottish League Cups, and four SFA Cups with Celtic, along with an FA Cup and a Community Shield with Leicester.

This means that Rodgers has won a whopping 13 trophies in his career as a manager, whilst Southampton have not won a major trophy since the FA Cup success in 1976.

Overall, the former Celtic manager would be a major upgrade on Still, who has only managed midtable success and has no trophies under his belt, because of his career record, his history in the Championship and the Premier League, and his proven track record of winning trophies.

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By
Dan Emery

Nov 8, 2025

If they can convince him to take the job, Rodgers could be the ideal candidate to get the Saints out of the Championship, as well as to establish them in the Premier League.

Alisha Lehmann has seen her house in Italy burgled, with the Como Women star sharing a video on social media of her ransacked bedroom. The Switzerland international was not in at the time of the incident, but is being forced to clean up the mess left behind. Lehmann had been embracing a new challenge with Como, but will now be asking questions of her living arrangements.

Italian job: Lehmann won Serie A title with Juventus

The 26-year-old forward took on an Italian job in the summer of 2024. At that point, she bid farewell to English football and the WSL following stints with West Ham, Everton and Aston Villa. A fresh start was made with Turin-based giants Juventus.

Lehmann savoured Serie A title success during her debut campaign with the Bianconere, allowing wild celebrations to be taken in. She was, however, never a guaranteed starter for the most ambitious of outfits.

With that in mind, an offer from Como Women was accepted in 2025. That transfer allowed Lehmann to take up residence in picturesque surroundings on the banks of an iconic lake. It did not take her long to get among the goals for new employers.

AdvertisementLehmann shares video of ransacked apartment

In October, having previously posted snaps of her soaking up the sun in Como, Lehmann shared how she gets to take in stunning views on a daily basis – with a huge expanse of water just outside her door. She stated online: “It's great to wake up every morning to a beautiful view. You wake up much happier.”

Lehmann’s mood has now been soured. She has shared another video with her 16 million followers on Instagram. In that, she captures the state of her bedroom after seeing intruders rifle through her belongings – with the contents of wardrobes and cabinets being flung everywhere.

Lehmann is trying to stay upbeat, as she accompanied said video with the message: “Next time people rob my house, can you please clean up after, cause I’ve got OCD.” As someone that likes organisation and cleanliness, the Swiss now faces confusion and mess.

Instagram

Why Lehmann joined the project at Como Women

Lehmann told when joining Como Women and forming part of a project that is about more than just results on the field: “It’s an independent club, fully focused on women’s football – and that really matters to me. From the start, I could see this wasn’t just another team; it’s a project with real purpose and vision. [So] signing with FC Como Women just felt right.

“We’re in a moment where women’s football can define itself on its own terms, and independent clubs like Como Women have the opportunity in leading the movement. [It] isn’t just about winning matches. It’s about building something that lasts. This is the first time I’ve joined an independent club. That was a big part of my decision. It shows there is a different way of doing things.”

She added: “I came here to play football and hope to earn my place by working hard. I came here to compete and to grow as an athlete. The rest will come if I stay true to that. For me, it’s simple: I want to play as much as possible, help the team, and enjoy football. What I love is that they [Como] take the game seriously, but also create space for players to be themselves.

“There’s so much potential here. Italy’s performances have shown the quality and spirit in the game here, and now people are paying attention. I think the league is ready to take a big step forward. With more visibility, investment, and commitment to the players, Serie A Women can become a real force in Europe. Being part of that journey is something I’m really excited about.”

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InstagramAway games & Baller League: Lehmann often on the road

Lehmann is regularly away from home as she takes in games on the road with Como Women and the Switzerland national team. She has also been heading back to England after linking up with Love Island presenter and partner of Manchester City defender Ruben Dias, Maya Jama, to become coach of MVPs United in the UK version of Baller League.

The Mariners made the first big splash of MLB free agency on Sunday night, agreeing to a long-term contract that will keep Josh Naylor in the organization for another five seasons.

ESPN’s Jeff Passan provided some further information on the agreement between Naylor and Seattle on Monday, indicating that the contract would be worth a total of $92.5 million. As such, Naylor will collect an annual average value of $18.5 million throughout the course of the deal. The contract does not include any deferred money. Additionally, Naylor’s deal to return the Mariners comes with a full no-trade clause.

The $18.5 million Naylor is due in 2026 would make him the third-highest earner on Seattle’s roster, behind only Luis Castillo ($24.15 million) and Julio Rodríguez ($20.19 million). His $92.5 million deal overtakes Ichiro Suzuki for the eighth richest contract in franchise history. Robinson Canó’s 10-year, $240 million contract still stands as the largest deal ever given to a Mariners player.

It’s a big commitment from the Mariners, but it shows just how highly regarded Naylor has become within the organization since arriving at the trade deadline in a deal with the Diamondbacks. Naylor quickly became a fan favorite in Seattle, and now he’s set to remain with the franchise through the 2030 season.

Last season, in 54 games with the Mariners, Naylor logged a .831 OPS with nine home runs, 33 RBIs and 19 stolen bases.

Manchester United are battling Chelsea over the signing of RB Leipzig’s highly-rated young midfielder Assan Ouedraogo, as Ruben Amorim eyes up new additions.

The Red Devils fell to a woeful 1-0 defeat at home to Everton on Monday evening, failing to beat a Blues side who played most of the game with ten men.

It was a big setback for Amorim, with United now going three Premier League matches without a win, and the manager bemoaned the performance of his players at Old Trafford.

It was further proof that United need to look at midfield additions, whether that be in the January or summer transfer window, and an exciting update has now dropped in that respect.

Man Utd have upper hand on Chelsea in Assan Ouedraogo race

According to Sky Germany [via Sport Witness], Manchester United are pushing ahead in their efforts to sign Ouedraogo from Leipzig in 2026. The Red Devils’ interest in the 19-year-old is “becoming more concrete” all the time, with Premier League rivals Chelsea also pushing for a deal.

United have an upper hand in that they have already had contacts with the player’s camp, pursuing him before he left Schalke in June 2024, but a “top offer” will be needed to pry him away from Leipzig given he has no release clause.

Ouedraogo is a huge young talent with so much potential, so United should be looking at him as a fantastic option to add to their midfield in the coming months.

Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes are both in their 30s now, and struggled together against Everton, but the Leipzig star would be a long-term signing who would add much-needed fresh legs in the middle of the park.

Amorim and Wilcox agree on blockbuster Man Utd move for "elite" £80m star

The Red Devils could now make a notable signing that would be represent a statement at Old Trafford.

BySean Markus Clifford Nov 24, 2025

Ouedraogo recently scored on his debut for Germany, and he will be pushing to be one of the standout youngsters at 2026 World Cup, with scout Antonio Mango desribing him as a “midfield sensation” earlier this month.

While the German teenager is at his happiest in a central midfield role, he can also shine in a more attacking central berth, as well as on the left wing, and United beating Chelsea and others to his signature would feel like a major statement of intent.

Worse than Bruno Fernandes vs Everton: Amorim must bin Man Utd's 3/10 flop

Leeds United are eyeing up one manager who has wins over Oliver Glasner, Thomas Tuchel and Ange Postecoglou to replace Daniel Farke.

Farke under pressure at Leeds after Nottingham Forest defeat

The Whites and Farke headed into the international break following two Premier League losses on the road to Brighton and Nottingham Forest.

Conceding three goals at the AMEX and the City Ground, Leeds now find themselves just one point clear of safety and have an extremely tough run of fixtures when club football returns.

Leeds’ upcoming fixtures

Date

Aston Villa (h)

November 23rd

Manchester City (a)

November 29th

Chelsea (h)

December 3rd

Liverpool (h)

December 6th

Brentford (a)

December 14th

Crystal Palace (h)

December 21st

Sunderland (a)

December 28th

There has been plenty of speculation on Farke’s future following the defeats in recent week, but journalist Graeme Bailey insisted the 49ers Enterprises intend to give him until January to turn things around.

Bailey said: “Pressure is mounting on Daniel Farke – but he knew this was coming and the club did too. This is going to be a long season. Everyone was aware. They didn’t spend the tens of millions that Sunderland did.

“They know Farke can only do so much with the squad at his disposal. But the quality of performance and how they compete is going to be vital in the coming weeks.”

There have been a number of managers mooted with an Elland Road move to replace Farke, should the 49ers make a change, including Liam Rosenior of Strasbourg and Valencia’s Carlos Corberan, a former assistant to Marcelo Bielsa.

Leeds eyeing up move for Marco Rose

Now, according to Football Insider, former RB Salzburg, Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig manager Marco Rose is firmly on Leeds’ radar.

The outlet then relayed comments from former scout Mick Brown, who said it would be a “gamble” to appoint someone like Rose.

“I have no doubt Marco Rose is on Leeds’ radar. Their links with Red Bull make that a possibility for Leeds, so it’s certainly an option they might look to explore if they do decide to make a change.

“But personally I would be surprised if he was the person they chose to help them. If they decide to sack Farke, it will be because they’re at risk of getting relegated, so I don’t think taking a gamble on a manager like Rose would be right for them.

“He doesn’t know the Premier League, and it might be a cliche, but that’s what Leeds will be looking for. There was talk about Farke during the summer and whether he could go, because they wanted somebody with experience of being successful in the Premier League.

“So if they decide to sack him now, I expect that’s what they’re going to look at.”

The 49-year-old, who plays a 4-4-2 system, is currently out of work after leaving Leipzig back in March.

Rose does have wins over the likes of Glasner, Tuchel and Postecoglou on his CV and revealed what style of play he likes his sides to have.

Could that be at Leeds?

He's got a "bit of Bielsa": Leeds could sack Farke for "mental" 4-3-3 coach

Crystal Palace are now genuine contenders to sign Nathan Ake, with an eye-catching raid of Manchester City now being planned.

Palace’s interest in a new centre-back stems from Marc Guehi’s contract situation, with the England international now poised to leave on a free transfer upon the expiration of his current deal next summer, and there are plenty of clubs waiting in the wings.

Liverpool remain keen on the 25-year-old, having come close to getting a deal done on deadline day in the summer, but Arne Slot’s side may now be set to face competition from the likes of Real Madrid and Chelsea.

Steve Parish will, of course, be disappointed to have missed out on a transfer fee for the defender, unless he chooses to cash-in in January, although doing so could harm the Eagles in their quest to compete on all fronts, with the maiden European campaign likely to be of key importance.

Oliver Glasner’s side may not have to worry about bringing in a Guehi replacement until next summer, but they have already started identifying potential options, and Ake has now emerged as a target for the end of the season.

Crystal Palace genuine contenders to sign Ake

That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which reveals Crystal Palace are now genuine contenders to sign the Man City defender, with their Premier League rivals giving serious consideration to cashing-in.

As such, the door could be open for Palace to get a deal done, with an eye-catching raid to sign the Dutchman being considered once again, having identified him as a target during the summer transfer window.

The Eagles are making sure they are prepared for Guehi’s departure, as it is considered almost a foregone conclusion that he will move on in the summer, with Bayern Munich named as one of the top clubs chasing the Englishman’s signature.

Once lauded as “incredible” by Man City manager Pep Guardiola, the centre-back has found game time hard to come by in the Premier League this season, often being benched or utilised as a substitute.

Crucially, the former AFC Bournemouth man is vastly experienced in the Premier League, having amassed 240 appearances in the competition, and he certainly knows what it takes to win, lifting 14 major honours in what has been a hugely successful career.

At 30-years-old, the City ace is likely to want to play regular first-team football, so it could make sense to seek pastures new in the summer, and there are signs he could be a solid replacement for Guehi.

The only negative is the fact the Netherlands international is over five years older than Guehi and set to turn 31 in February, which means he is unlikely to be a long-term replacement, although he should certainly have a few more years at the top level.

Crystal Palace also targeting Yann Bisseck as Marc Guehi replacement Crystal Palace now keen on "insane" £22m defender who pocketed Erling Haaland

Palace are looking to sign a new centre-back, with Marc Guehi heading for the exit door.

ByDominic Lund Oct 16, 2025

Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele picked up the 2025 Ballon d’Or, but who will lift the famous individual honour in 2026?

With the 2025/26 season well and truly underway, players are beginning to make their case to land the historic award, and in a World Cup year, there could be many twists and turns.

Here are the 20 players who are best placed to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or right now, based on current form and their respective team’s chances of silverware.

Ranking factors: To help rank the players in order, we have considered the following criteria:

• Current form – how well a player has performed in the past few months
• Importance to their teams – how influential they are to their teams’ performances
• Reputation – what others say about them

10

Gabriel Magalhaes

Arsenal and Brazil

An injury halted the Brazilian’s progress but he is currently the most in-form defender on the planet, scoring goals, dominating in both boxes and leading Arsenal’s incredible defensive record.

While the spotlight often went to William Saliba in recent seasons, Gabriel has emerged as the true rock at the heart of the best defence in world football.

9

Ousmane Dembele

PSG and France

Could he go back to back? Well, if PSG continue their dominance in France and in Europe, and if Ousmane Dembele helps his country to a World Cup win, there is every chance.

The forward netted his first goals of the season at the end of August before a hamstring injury halted his progress. Still, the 28-year-old has plenty of time to return to full fitness and make his claim of another Ballon d’Or.

8

Michael Olise

Bayern Munich and France

Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise has continued his fine form at the Allianz Arena into his second season.

A regular on the right wing under Vincent Kompany, Olise is already into double figures for goal contributions with Munich. Meanwhile, his national manager, Didier Deschamps, has said Olise “has everything”, with France and Bayern teammate Dayot Upamecano calling the attacker a “magician”.

7

Pedri

Barcelona and Spain

Pulling the strings in Barcelona’s midfield, Pedri is seen as one of the greatest midfielders in football and will be looking to improve on his 11th place finish last time out.

The Spaniard has even caught the eye of iconic midfielder Paul Scholes, with the Man Utd legend calling Pedri his “new favourite footballer”.

Hansi Flick has also called Pedri a “special” player, adding that he “is also becoming a better leader” for his side.

6

Vitinha

PSG and Portugal

Vitinha’s stunning hat-trick against Tottenham in the Champions League vaulted him up the rankings, with the all-action midfielder providing a mixture of end product, tenacity and control in Paris, averaging over 100 passes per game this season.

The Portugal star has gone from strength to strength in recent seasons having won the quadruple with PSG in the 2024/25 campaign, and will look to cement himself as one of the best in world football at next summer’s World Cup.

5

Erling Haaland

Man City and Norway

Jamie Carragher has recently called Erling Haaland the “greatest goalscorer to ever play in English football”, with his ridiculous start to the season leading to the forward himself saying he’s in his best form ever.

Scoring goals for fun with Man City and Norway, Haaland will now play at his first World Cup in 2026, which will be his country’s first since 1998. A strong performance to take them on a knockout run would cement his status as a legend of Norwegian football.

4

Harry Kane

Bayern Munich and England

Harry Kane is continuing to do what he does best – score goals on a regular basis. With Bayern Munich, Kane scored a remarkable 17 goals in the first nine games for the German champions, becoming the fastest player this century to reach 100 goals for a side playing in one of Europe’s top five leagues.

The England captain will also have his eyes on the 2026 World Cup, which could be his last at the age of 32. Delight for club and country in 2026 will put him in a strong position.

3

Lamine Yamal

Barcelona and Spain

Lamine Yamal has won the Kopa Trophy at the Ballon d’Or awards for the last two years, so it feels as if it is just a matter of time until the Barcelona star takes home the major individual honour.

However, Barca currently trail Real Madrid in La Liga and have already dropped points in the Champions League group stage.

Still, if Yamal carries the Catalan giants to silverware and stars in his first World Cup, 2026 could be his year.

2

Declan Rice

Arsenal and England

Now a vital member for club and country, Declan Rice is arguably the best midfielder in the world right now, shining in a slightly further forward role at the Emirates under Mikel Arteta.

After his two stunning free-kicks against Real Madrid in the Champions League last season, Rice has continued to add end product to his game and has been praised by England legends David Beckham, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.

1

Kylian Mbappe

Real Madrid and France

Leading the way as the current 2026 Ballon d’Or favourite is Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe.

The Frenchman has begun the 2025/26 campaign in red-hot form in front of goal, registering the second fastest Champions League hat-trick of all time in a win over Olympiacos, even scoring a fourth for good measure.

Tennis legend Rafael Nadal has even called Mbappe the “best in the world”, and on current form, it’s hard to argue against the Madrid fan.

MatériaMais Notícias

Após a goleada para o rival na última rodada do Brasileirão, o elenco do Vasco aproveitou a Data Fifa para treinar visando o próximo confronto contra o Palmeiras. Apesar de ter desfalques, o técnico Álvaro Pacheco poderá contar pela primeira vez com Adson.

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➡️ Tudo sobre o Gigante agora no WhatsApp. Siga o nosso canal Lance! Vasco

O atacante não participou na última partida por um desconforto muscular, apesar de ter sido poupado, não houve lesão constatada. O jogador tem participado normalmente dos treinos com o elenco durante a semana e poder ser relacionado para enfrentar o Palmeiras no Allianz Parque.

Além de Adson, o técnico argentino também poderá contar com o Cria da base JP. O volante de 19 anos estava a serviço da Seleção Brasileira sub-20 desde a segunda-feira passada, na Granja Comary, e se reapresentou ao Vasco na manhã de domingo (9).

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A volta de JP acontece em momento oportuno. O Cruz-Maltino não poderá contar com Praxedes, que lesionou na partida contra o Flamengo e está sendo tratado pelo Departamento de Saúde e Performance (Desp). O Vasco ainda não divulgou previsão de retorno para o meio-campista.

O Vasco enfrenta o Palmeiras nesta quinta-feira (13), às 21h30 (Brasília), no Allianz Parque, em busca de retomar o caminho de vitórias e superar o momento crise no futebol que se instaurou após a goleada para o Flamengo. O clube carioca está na 14ª posição com seis pontos, enquanto o Verdão ocupa a 7ª posição com 11 pontos.

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Pakistan are effectively 23 for 4 after South Africa’s lower-order flipped the script and gave them a 71-run first innings lead in Rawalpindi. Senuran Muthusamy and Kagiso Rabada both walked away with batting career-bests – and Rabada with the first fifty of his Test career, off just 38 balls, – as Pakistan ran out of answers against the tail. For the first time in the series, the hosts find themselves chasing the game.Muthusamy will get fewer plaudits than Rabada, whose innings was studded with sexy hits straight down the ground but deserves all the praise. He held South Africa together after they lost 4 for 50 in the morning session and looked certain to take a deficit into the second innings.Muthusamy shared a 71-run stand with fellow left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj and a 98-run partnership with Rabada and on a deteriorating pitch, has given South Africa a big advantage. It is only the second time both the ninth and tenth wicket put up stands of more than fifty and first since the Adelaide Test in 1998.Pakistan were clearly stunned by the late assault as their spinners were blunted, Shaheen Shah Afridi was targeted and Shan Masood could not plug gaps in the field. They slumped to 16 for 3 in response but have since recovered to 94 for 4 thanks largely to Babar Azam’s best in the series so far. He stayed calm against a fiery South African side and delighted an appreciative crowd with well timed drives and one powerful pull. He is one run away from a 30th Test fifty and first at home since his century against New Zealand in December 2022. Alongside him is Mohammad Rizwan, unbeaten on 16, with Salman Agha the last recognised batter to come.All that may overshadow the 38 reasons Pakistan had to celebrate when Asif Afridi, on debut, became the oldest man to take a Test five-for in his first match. Asif’s fifth wicket was that of Simon Harmer, when South Africa were 210 for 7. That South Africa added another 194 runs will be difficult for him to believe, especially after the way the day started.Asif Afridi performs the sajda after claiming his maiden five-wicket haul•Associated Press

Asif struck in the first over of the day when Kyle Verreynne pushed at his fourth ball and got a thin edge, which Mohammad Rizwan gleefully pouched. Stubbs, who was on 68 overnight, was back in his defensive shell and added just eight runs to his score before being trapped in the crease by a quicker Asif ball that hit him on the pad. Asif struck again in his next over, when Harmer missed a reverse sweep and was pinned in front of middle stump.Muthusamy, who had been at the crease from the first over of the morning, looked fairly comfortable and with all the main batters out, gave himself permission to play his shots. He swept particularly well and was perplexed when he was given out lbw to Sajid Khan and reviewed immediately. Ultra Edge confirmed an inside-edge.Pakistan took the second new ball as soon as it became available and Asif shared it with Shaheen. It was only once Shaheen was replaced by Noman Ali that it brought rewards when Noman had Marco Jansen out lbw.Maharaj joined Muthusamy and batted proactively but offered plenty of chances. He was dropped by Imam-ul-Haq at silly mid-off in what was a tough chance akin to Tony de Zorzi which dismissed Babar on day two, then could have been stumped off Asif as he charged down but Rizwan was unsighted and could not react in time and then offered Asif a return chance that he could not hold on to. Muthusamy decided to live dangerously too and swung across the line to hit Sajid high over the keeper. Salman ran back but could not get to the ball in time.South Africa went to lunch 48 runs behind and most likely with a view to cutting the deficit to as little as possible but ended up doing much more. Three overs into the second session, Muthusamy got to his second Test fifty, off 88 balls, and three overs after that lost Maharaj. Encouraged by his ability to charge down, Maharaj did it one too many times as Noman flighted the ball and was stumped. At that stage, South Africa were still 27 runs behind.Kagiso Rabada played aggressively as he notched his highest Test score of 71•AFP/Getty Images

Muthusamy reverse-swept Sajid in a shot that suggested he was going to accelerate in anticipation of the end. But Rabada had no intention of going anywhere quickly. He swung hard and sent Noman over his head for his first four and the fun began. He slog-swept Sajid for six and then hit Shaheen over long-on and just short of long-off for back-to-back boundaries before taking six more off Sajid.His fifty came with a touch of class as he guided Sajid through point and then he tonked Agha over his head for another six. While Rabada went crazy, Muthusamy quietly collected runs to move into the 80s and soon the race was on to see whether they could both get to three figures. Neither did, as Rabada played one big shot too many and was caught at long-on to give Asif a six-for and South Africa a precious foot in front.On a high from their batting effort, South Africa were quickly brought down to earth when Rabada started with a no-ball in an over that cost nine but they pulled things back quickly. Harmer shared the new ball and spun it past Imam’s inside edge onto his front pad. He was given out and reviewed but remained out on umpire’s call. In his next over, Harmer had Shan Masood stuck on the back foot as he tried to drive through mid-on and was also given out lbw. Masood reviewed too, and lost the review as he was confirmed out. It was two wickets in two balls for South Africa as Rabada got Abdullah Shafique for the second time in the series after he was dropped off several edges. This time, loose defence took the edge and Jansen at third slip took the catch.Pakistan were effectively -55 for 3, with two batters yet to score at the crease and South Africa tried to close in. They burned two reviews hoping to get Babar lbw, and both times he had inside-edged onto his pad, which only underlines the danger South Africa knew he poses. Babar showed glimpses of his classy best, timing Rabada through point, cutting Harmer over cover point and then advancing on Maharaj. He dominated a 44-run stand with Saud Shakeel, who laboured his way to 11 off 43 before edging Harmer to Markram at slip. Still, Pakistan were behind.They took the lead when Rizwan swept Muthusamy through backward square leg for his boundary and the game really began. Babar and Rizwan saw out the day without further drama until Rizwan knocked the bails off on the last balls and South Africa appealed for hit wicket. The umpires called it dead ball to end an action-packed day.

The two spinners, from MP, claimed 16 wickets between them in the final and were “very difficult to play on this pitch”

Ashish Pant15-Sep-2025Rajat Patidar, the 2025-26 Duleep Trophy-winning captain, hailed the “great character” shown by Central Zone not just in the final but throughout the tournament. He particularly heaped praise on the two spinners, Kumar Kartikeya and Saransh Jain, who shared 16 wickets between them in the final as Central Zone won their first Duleep Trophy title since 2014-15 by defeating South Zone by six wickets.”They have played a lot of matches together, Kartikeya and Saransh [for Madhya Pradesh] and they have the skill and are very difficult to play on this pitch,” Patidar said after the game. “The track was really good to bat and our bowlers dominated and made it tough for the other team. That was a positive sign.”It’s been a flawless tournament for Central Zone, where they cruised through the quarter-final against North East Zone and the semi-final against West Zone, qualifying for the final by virtue of gaining first-innings leads. Then, in what had been a high-scoring tournament, Central Zone bowled first in the final and skittled South Zone for just 149, which paved the way for a comfortable win on the final day.Related

Jain keeps 'India logo on my jersey' dream going with another statement display

Rathod's 194, Jain's all-round show give Central Duleep title

“This wicket was slightly dry, and that is why we decided to bowl first,” Patidar said. “We wanted to bowl them out in the first innings as early as possible. That was our aim and it made the game easier.”We predicted that it would help the fast bowlers, but I wanted to give one spinner at least an over to see how the pitch is responding. I realised there was more help for the spinners rather than the fast bowlers.”L Balaji, the South Zone head coach, meanwhile, lamented the first-innings collapse and missing out on a few runs in the second as the major reasons behind his side’s disappointing performance. Chasing 65 on the final day, Central Zone lost three early wickets but despite the surface doing plenty of tricks, the chase was never going to be daunting.”The last day panned out to be bowler-friendly. Had we got more runs in the first innings or the second, had the partnership [between Ankit Sharma and C Andre Siddarth] been extended, it would have been a solid game,” Balaji said. “[A target of] 150 would have been an ideal kind of fourth-innings target for the bowling unit to fight hard.”Kumar Kartikeya kisses the Duleep Trophy silverware•PTI South Zone’s team combination for the final was also a talking point. They went with three fast bowlers and one spinner in a bid to extend their batting line-up. It backfired with the Central Zone spinners finding plenty of purchase through the game, and the lone South Zone spinner, Ankit, bagging six wickets without any spin support from the other end.”We played three seamers in the previous game and wanted to stick with pretty much the same combination,” Balaji said. “All the bowlers bowled their heart out. Had we won the toss, the third seamer would have come into play. But I felt the boys did well selection-wise. We were consistent when it comes to the combinations.”Balaji also agreed that some of the shots played by the batters in the first innings “were a little bit unnecessary” as South Zone collapsed. But he was confident the experience of playing a major final would keep the players in good stead.”There are a lot of ifs and buts,” he said. “Shot selection-wise, some shots we could have been a little bit restricted. But on the field, when they are instinctively playing, you just have to give them the freedom to play their shot. But it was okay. This is a young batting unit and they will learn from this.”Balaji was also impressed by Siddharth’s temperament in the second innings. The 19-year-old fell for just 12 in the first innings but ensured he made up in the second, scoring an unbeaten 84. He stitched a 192-run seventh-wicket stand with Ankit, keeping the Central Zone players waiting.”We were put under pressure and he came up with a solid knock which we required at that time,” Balaji said about Siddharth’s knock. “That partnership was needed, and yes, coming not out is very important as a cricketer. He will learn. On the way, he will definitely learn a lot from this exposure and from this experience. I am sure he has got the talent to go higher.”