All posts by h716a5.icu

Leeds United are still awaiting the confirmation of the 49ers complete takeover from Andrea Radrizzani, but with the deal a formality, the focus is shifting to the transfer market.

The Whites have been relegated from the Premier League in their third season since ending 16 miserable years away from the top flight, and are now fraught with worry that lightning will strike twice and Championship obscurity will seep into Elland Road for the club's next chapter.

To ensure this does not happen, the moves made on the transfer front will be paramount, and with reports linking Leeds to Fenerbache winger Bright Osayi-Samuel, it appears the club are indeed acting with conviction to mount an immediate title challenge.

According to one Turkish journalist (via MOT Leeds News), the Whites were preparing to table an offer for the dynamic wideman earlier this month, with the player wanting to return to England after a lacklustre 18 months in Turkey.

Valued at around €10m (£8m), the Nigeria international would be a worthy addition for a club looking to ensure their return to the second tier is nothing more than a sojourn.

Should Leeds sign Bright Osayi-Samuel?

Leeds managed to stave off the threat of relegation in the 21/22 campaign after leaving onlookers waxing lyrical the season prior as they waltzed into the Premier League under the stewardship of Marcelo Bielsa and earned a ninth-placed finish.

However, the falling fortunes were evident and the jubilation of preserving their status quickly felt like a stay of execution, with the recently-concluded campaign highlighting the woes that had led to the club's bitter demise.

Leeds must now look ahead, and by signing Osayi-Samuel, who has Championship experience with Queens Park Rangers and Blackpool, the right flank could be secured once again.

A versatile player capable of playing at right back and on both offensive flanks, the 25-year-old has been hailed for his "blistering pace" by Mark Warburton, who also called him "outstanding".

He's played 100 times for Fenerbahce but after only mustering a 6.57 average Sofascore rating in the Super Lig this term, it might be time for new pastures.

The three-cap dynamo did score eight goals and supplied 12 assists across his final two Championship terms with QPR, however, and he could emulate his past feats with Leeds.

Such numbers from the wing-back could even prove to be the catalyst for young forward Crysencio Summerville's fortunes to improve, with Leeds signing the exciting talent for just £1m from Feyenoord in 2020.

The 21-year-old demonstrated flashes of brilliance this year and posted four goals and two assists from just 12 top-flight starts this season, but with an average of just one shot per game it's clear he could use some support.

Once described as "unplayable" by Beren Cross, Summerville could well live up to that mantra again should he link up with a devastating offensive wing-back, unlike someone of Luke Ayling's calibre.

This move could be particularly astute when you consider the former has also been linked with a move away this summer. Yet, this move could well convince the Dutchman to continue his development with a progressive force behind him.

Leeds must sign Osayi-Samuel, his inclusion at the club could have a knock-on effect and assure the stars at the side that the requisite moves for a return to prominence are being made.

Tottenham Hotspur talks to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba will take place in these next few days, according to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Who will join Spurs this summer?

Spurs are set to bolster their squad this summer as chairman Daniel Levy, buoyed by the incoming new manager Ange Postecoglou, looks to this transfer window for upgrades.

A major overhaul is possible too with Hugo Lloris, Ivan Perisic, Davinson Sanchez, Ryan Sessegnon, Eric Dier and Ben Davies’ futures all hanging in the balance. Meanwwhile, Spurs could also attempt to sell Giovani Lo Celso, Sergio Reguilon, Tanguy Ndombele and Harry Winks (The Telegraph).

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is another player who could make way and free up space for Postecoglou signings before the start of 2023/2024.

In terms of who they could be, Spurs are reliably believed to be closing in on Lloris’ successor, with Empoli goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario set to undergo a medical this weekend ahead of his proposed move.

Tottenham are also chasing a central defender, with Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo among the targets. However, Tapsoba appears to be taking centre stage, as some reports suggest he is likely to join if an official approach is made.

If that is indeed the case, reliable reporter Romano may have good news for Spurs supporters, as it is now expected that the north Londoners will imminently open formal talks.

The Burkina Faso international is apparently top of their transfer list, and in the next few days, negotiations over his signing will commence.

What’s been said about Edmond Tapsoba?

Commentator Mark Lovell is among Tapsoba’s biggest fans, calling him “top quality” all the way back in 2020, and it’s safe to say the defender has maintained that form as a consistent starter for Leverkusen right now.

Meanwhile, at international level, Tapsoba has been described as “fundamental” in past seasons by journalist Bruno Alemany.

Along with a heartbreaking tribute, the family of the late Maddy Cusack have confirmed that Sheffield United have launched an inquiry.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

Maddy Cusack was found dead in SeptemberFamily release mother's funeral speechAnnounce Sheffield United's investigationWHAT HAPPENED?

Cusack, the vice-captain of the Blades, was the first player to make 100 appearances for the women's squad and the longest-serving member of the team. On September 20, the 27-year-old passed away at her home in Horsley, Derbyshire. Derbyshire Police declared at the time that there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. Nevertheless, a statement given by her mother Deborah at a funeral ceremony in October has finally been made public by her family and uploaded on the JustGiving page of the Maddy Cusack Foundation. The family released an additional statement in addition to the speech, stating that Sheffield United have agreed to conduct an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Maddy's passing.

AdvertisementWHAT DEBORAH CUSACK SAID

“My beautiful daughter, Madeleine. The saddest and most utterly heartbreaking reason why I am having to stand here and speak to you today is because of football," read the statement on X.

"From February this year, the indomitable, irrepressible spirit, the spirit called Maddy, the spirit that we had so fiercely protected was allowed to be broken.

"Those who knew Maddy well will be aware that she had no long standing mental health issues or troubles. Not that there would be anything to be ashamed of if there were, but there were not.  Those that didn’t know her need to know that."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

It has also been revealed that Sheffield United have opened an investigation into the death of their former vice-captain.

"Maddy was a happy-go-lucky, carefree girl with everything to live for and by last Christmas could be described as being at her happiest. This all changed gradually from February this year," read the statement.

"It is no secret, nor should it be, that Sheffield United Football Club have agreed at the request of Maddy’s family to carry out a thorough external investigation into the events that her family believe contributed significantly to her passing at the tender age of 27."

Last month, the Blades also launched a formal investigation into the club's, then-coach, Jonathan Morgan. However, the reason behind the investigation hadn't been revealed as the manager stepped away from his post following the inquiry.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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

WHAT NEXT?

An inquest into Cusack's untimely passing was opened at Derby Coroner’s Court in October and adjourned, with the cause of death yet to be established. Her family will now wait for the results of the investigation from Sheffield United which will look into the events they believe "contributed significantly" to her tragic death.

A blistering innings of 72 from 44 balls from South African opener Lizelle Lee set up Surrey Stars’ fourth win in four games

ECB Reporters Network23-Aug-2017Surrey Stars 169 for 6 (Lee 72, Kapp 48, Nicholas 3-20) beat Western Storm 117 (Sciver 3-11, Hartley 3-28) by 52 runsLizelle Lee hit a boundary-studded 72 off 44 balls•Getty ImagesA blistering innings of 72 from 44 balls from South African opener Lizelle Lee set up Surrey Stars’ fourth win in four games of the 2017 Kia Super League, and secured their place in Finals Day at Hove on September 1.Lee hit seven fours and six huge sixes against Western Storm, which helped guide Surrey to a formidable total of 169 for 6 from their 20 overs in front of a crowd of around 1,000 at the Kia Oval.Stars did not have things all their own way early on, however, as they lost the toss and were invited to bat, then saw England international Tammy Beaumont dismissed by the first ball of the innings. She was lbw to Claire Nicholas’ spin.That did not perturb Lee, who proceeded to put on 103 for the second wicket with fellow South African Marizanne Kapp. Lee lap-swept and cut powerfully before being dropped on 31 at midwicket off the bowling of Stafanie Taylor, who she then swept for two sixes.Lee also got after England and Storm captain Heather Knight, hitting her for three sixes in an over before cutting straight to cover-point. That brought captain Nat Sciver to the crease, and she hit six fours in a hard-hitting cameo of 30 from 18 balls before being caught at long-on off Nicholas.There were a flurry of wickets at the end of Surrey’s innings, with Nicholas also dismissing Kapp for 48 to finish with 3 for 20.In the face of such a formidable total last year’s finalists never really got going, with Kapp trapping England pair Knight and Fran Wilson with consecutive balls in her second over. Rachel Priest looked dangerous before she, like Taylor, fell to Sciver, who is the tournament’s leading wicket taker with 10.With their high-class top four gone, the job was left to Storm’s youngsters. Sophie Luff was caught at cover off Alex Hartley, but some resourceful hitting from Georgia Hennessey and Alice Macleod saw them share 59.But they fell in consecutive overs to the spin of Laura Marsh and Hartley, bringing about a collapse of four wickets for six runs. Sciver returned to bowl the final over, having Holly Huddleston caught at long-on to secure at 52-run victory as Storm were bowled out for 117.

Simon Harmer claimed his career-best figures of 8 for 36, and 14 for 128 in the match. For Warwickshire, dismissed for 94, it added up to a whole lot of trouble

David Hopps at Chelmsford22-Jun-2017
ScorecardSimon Harmer did the hard yards on the third day. On the fourth, gifts were bestowed upon him. For Harmer, it all added up to his career-best figures of 8 for 36, and 14 for 128 in the match. For Warwickshire, dismissed for 94, it added up to a whole lot of trouble.While Essex strengthened their hold at the top of Division One, Warwickshire are marooned with Somerset at the bottom, 40 points away from safety. Defeat by an innings and 164 runs underlined the extent of their challenge and, soon after the finish, their coaching team were huddled in earnest conversation.As Harmer took the last wicket, in a hospitality box overlooking the ground Mohammad Amir confidently predicted that he could help Essex win the Championship. Neil Wagner departed with a magnum of champagne and public thanks during a lunchtime celebration – a sign that Essex are doing the small things well – and, in Amir, they have quite a replacement.Ryan ten Doeschate, Essex’s captain, was delighted with his side’s response so soon after their last-over defeat in the Royal London Cup semi-final against Nottinghamshire. “Obviously Friday’s defeat was massively disappointing, but it was up to us to bounce back and the Championship is vitally important,” he said.Bouncebackability owed much to Essex’s first-innings batting, but it was ultimately down to Harmer. A switch of ends, a decision made late in Warwickshire’s first innings, and a harder ball, both contributed to faster turn than he had achieved the previous day and Warwickshire succumbed shortly after lunch.”We didn’t think the wicket was going to turn all that much, hence we only played one spinner,” said ten Doeschate. “Harmi is a turning spinner and there is not much more you can say about 14 wickets in the match. It was great for Harmi – he has predominantly done the holding job for the first six games of the year so to be able to fulfil that attacking role is a feather in his cap.””The English summer has arrived,” said Harmer with a smile. Hmm, perhaps somebody should have a word and warn him that it is an itinerant beast.Harmer had put in a 39-over shift on the third day, the bulk of it to take 6 for 92 in the first innings, but there were immediate indications that he had managed to fall out of bed in decent order as he took up a central place in Essex’s attack.By the time he came on for the ninth over of the day, Essex’s pace attack, encouraged by dark, thundery skies, had already struck. Ian Bell, a Warwickshire captain who must find a way out of a calamitous season, fell to an excellent diving catch by wicketkeeper James Foster after nicking a good ball from Wagner, which bounced a shade from a demanding line. There was no shame in that dismissal, although Bell had also edged just short of first slip earlier in the over.Harmer needed just six deliveries to start adding to his tally, Andrew Umeed edging onto the back foot and falling lbw. In his next over, Sam Hain tried to bale out of what seemed to be a pre-meditated sweep, got in a tangle, and squirted a catch off one knee to ten Doeschate at short leg.For the second time in the match, Rikki Clarke eschewed his attacking inclinations and concentrated largely on survival. The lbw decision against him that Harmer won was bound to get a few replays in the Warwickshire dressing room. Clarke shouldered arms to a good-length ball that pitched well outside off stump and was adjudged lbw. With his departure, Warwickshire’s last chance had gone and Tim Ambrose cast his bat aside in frustration.Next ball, Keith Barker tried to paddle the delivery away, got a top edge and was caught behind by Foster. Jeetan Patel, whose leg-side assault had damaged Harmer’s figures in the first innings, fell lbw. By lunch, Harmer’s morning’s work amounted to 5 for 31 off 15 overs.The lunch interval was delayed by 15 minutes, without success, to try to complete the match, but Warwickshire’s last two wickets did not delay overlong thereafter. Boyd Rankin was lbw to surely the slowest, loopiest full toss that Harmer has ever bowled, leaving Sunny Singh to push a turning delivery to first slip in the next over.So the pitch upon which Essex suffered a heartbreaking 50-over defeat had provided consolation by wearing sufficiently quickly for Harmer’s benefit. Patel, a fellow offspinner, and a fine one at that, will rue the fact that Warwickshire lost the toss and imagine that he might also have felt the benefit.But luck rarely runs with a side at the bottom of the table. It is Essex who have become the story of the summer. Their top six has been sheltered from the storm by Alastair Cook and will soon have to prove its mettle without him. Harmer is the signing of the summer and the combative qualities of Wagner are about to give way to the sheen of Amir. And a clutch of promising young pace bowlers are a reminder that Essex remain committed to unearthing their own.Chris Silverwood, a coach with a rising reputation, was absent from the final day because he was feeling unwell, but there was much good news to aid his recovery.

After beating a host of big names to the 2023 women's award, the Madrid CFF star's career looks set to explode in the coming years

The 2023 Women’s World Cup belonged to Spain, who beat England 1-0 in the final in Sydney back in August – but, in another way, it also belonged to Africa. For the first time in tournament history, despite off-pitch obstacles suggesting that the odds were against them, three African nations made it through to the last 16 of the competition.

For Morocco, it was a reward for the excellent work the federation has done investing in women's football, following up the team's run to the final of a home Women's Africa Cup of Nations in 2022. But for Nigeria and South Africa, it was a message sent to their federations that they deserve that investment and made many ponder what both nations could achieve with more. After all, eventual finalists England needed a penalty shootout to beat an impressive Nigeria side, while South Africa posed the Netherlands plenty of problems and created tons of chances despite the final result being a 2-0 win for the Dutch.

There was history for Zambia, too, the Copper Queens completing the quartet of nations representing Africa in Australia and New Zealand. Pooled in an extremely tough group in which eventual champions Spain only finished second, behind a Japan team that thrashed them 4-0, Zambia couldn’t secure their spot in the knockout rounds but they did secure a first ever Women’s World Cup win, on their tournament debut.

The team’s 3-1 win over Costa Rica was a memorable one for a team packed with talent, the Copper Queens backing up their fantastic achievement of qualifying for the Olympic women’s football tournament in 2021 with even more history at another huge international event.

With a third-placed finish secured at WAFCON last year, too, it’s clear that this team is one with a very bright future, the average age of their World Cup squad coming in at just over 23 years. From China-based superstar Barbra Banda to talented midfielder Grace Chanda, there are so many quality players to note in this team and prime among them is Racheal Kundananji, this year’s GOAL50 women’s winner and the first ever GOAL50 winner, men’s or women’s, from Africa.

GettySlowly but surely

Kundananji’s rise to the top of the women’s game, with her catching everyone’s eye last season thanks to a remarkable 25 goals in just 29 league games in Spain, didn’t come overnight. Having shone in Zambia’s domestic league as a teenager, the forward caught the eye of Kazakhstani club BIIK Kazygurt during a national team camp and was soon on her way to Europe.

Though boasting one of Europe’s lower-profile leagues, playing in Kazakhstan was that first step towards where she is today and it gave her a taste of the UEFA Women’s Champions League, too, with Kundananji scoring four goals in 11 appearances in the competition.

“The coach believed in me that I could improve, especially in front of goal,” she recalled earlier this year, in an interview with . “They believed in me and gave me a chance. When I received the contract, I was very happy. It has been my dream to play in Europe and that was a big motivation for me. When I went to Kazakhstan, I worked so hard to improve myself in every way. I know I’m not perfect, but I’m trying to perfect myself. From the day I moved there to where I am now, I’m just trying to perfect myself. No one is perfect, no one is the best they can be, but I work hard every day to make sure I can do the best I can.”

Kundananji’s hard work paid off when, in 2021, she was spotted by Spanish side Eibar and earned a move to one of Europe’s biggest leagues. Again, it wasn’t easy when she got there. The club was battling relegation and would eventually succumb to that fate – but the Zambian forward’s eight goals in 21 appearances for a struggling team meant she would get a chance to stick around in the top tier…

AdvertisementGettyMarvellous in Madrid

A move to the Spanish capital beckoned in the summer of 2022 when Madrid CFF, an independent women’s club, came calling. Given the team is not attached to a successful (and rich) men's side, things are not easy for Madrid CFF. Indeed, it was long thought that the club would be taken over by Real Madrid when Los Blancos eventually decided to get involved in the women's game. However, that wouldn't prove to be the case. Real targeted another independent club, CD Tacon, and Madrid CFF have continued to impress over the years.

The club has been in the top tier in Spain ever since promotion as champions of the second division in 2017 and they have had some memorable campaigns, most notably the 2020-21 season, in which they registered a seventh-placed finish in the league and reached the semi-finals of the Copa de la Reina.

But, having finished 13th the following year, Kundananji’s arrival ahead of the 2022-23 campaign would eventually propel them to a best-ever place of fifth, the Zambian star netting 25 times in 29 Liga F outings. Only Alba Redondo, the Spain international at Levante, bettered those numbers, scoring 27 to win the Golden Boot.

GettyA joy to watch

To watch Kundananji play is to watch someone who absolutely loves what she does. The delight with which she races into her trademark knee slide celebration never fails to put a smile on your face – and it is something we have seen plenty of since she moved to Madrid.

As well as being blessed with great pace, Kundananji has a fantastic understanding of the game, great awareness and an enviable ability to use both feet. It means she's capable of scoring such a variety of goals – be they tap-ins that showcase her great instincts, technically stunning strikes or composed finishes when there is only the goalkeeper to beat.

The 23-year-old can just about do it all and she does it with infectious energy, your eye drawn to her ability to constantly be a threat to the opponent. She is a delight to watch when she is in full flow, and she usually is.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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

Giant-killer

Despite spending the 2022-23 season scoring for fun, the final weekend of the Liga F season felt like a big moment for Kundananji. Everyone had seen her numbers and understood what she could do but when Barcelona came to town on May 21, she put an exclamation mark at the end of it all.

The Catalans had won the league on April 30, with four games to spare, and were bidding to make it an invincible season. They had won every single league game on their way to that title and their only dropped points had come two games later, away at Sevilla on May 10. But Madrid weren’t there to simply roll over and let that happen. Instead, two first half goals, within seven minutes of each other, saw Kundananji set her team on their way to a shock victory.

The Zambian star was a serious threat on the counter and complemented her pace with her clinical touch to not only spoil Barca’s chances of an unbeaten season, but to condemn the Spanish – and soon-to-be European – champions to a first league loss in 65 games, ending a streak that had gone on for two years.

West Ham United can be forgiven for being distracted by negotiations with Arsenal over a payment structure for £105m midfielder Declan Rice, but David Moyes' side are at risk of being left short come the start of the new Premier League season.

What new players have West Ham bought?

With five weeks to go until their trip to Bournemouth to kick off the 2023-24 season, West Ham have yet to make any signings this window.

That will surely frustrate manager Moyes, who will be fully aware that his squad is in need of freshening up, with May's Europa Conference League triumph papering over the cracks of a poor Premier League season.

A new central midfielder is top of Moyes' list of targets – or indeed a couple if a like-for-like Rice replacement cannot be found – with Ajax's Edson Alvarez, Manchester United's Scott McTominay and Everton's Amadou Onana all rumoured targets.

According to The Guardian, West Ham also hold an interest in Bristol City's Alex Scott, who is on the radar of fellow Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers.

How much is Bristol City's Alex Scott worth?

Scott may have spent his senior career to date in the Championship, yet he is reportedly worth at least £20m to Bristol City due to the fact he has two years to run on his Ashton Gate contract.

Despite being just 19 years old, Scott already has 81 Championship appearances under his belt, having been a regular for the Robins over the past two campaigns.

The teenage midfielder rose to prominence earlier this year after impressing Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola in an FA Cup tie, with the Catalan describing him as an "unbelievable player".

As pointed out by football talent scout Jacek Kulig after Scott was named the Championship's Young Player of the Year, he has a "big future ahead" of him.

Scott cannot be expected to slot straight in and take over the role of Rice, of course. Then again, who could?

Instead, the Guernsey native can provide some versatility for Moyes, given he featured in defensive midfield, central midfield, attacking midfield and on both flanks last season, as per WhoScored.

Versatile he may be, but it is as a pure central midfielder that Scott thrives. The Englishman ranks in the top 11% of all midfielders in the eight competitions most similar to the Championship for progressive carries (2.34 per 90 minutes), as per FBref, and in the top 16% for successful take-ons (1.22).

In that aforementioned FA Cup tie with Man City last season, which Bristol City lost 3-0, Scott's five dribbles were the joint-most of any player on the field, level with opponent Phil Foden – quite the company.

As per WhoScored, Scott's pass accuracy of 83.3% that day was also the third-most of any Robins player to attempt 10 passes or more, which is made all the more impressive when you factor in he was playing as an attacking midfielder.

Scott is not exactly a hidden gem, which explains his price tag, but he could be a very smart option for West Ham to kick off their transfer business in the post-Declan Rice era.

Newcastle United have "shown interest" in signing Juventus winger Samuel Iling-Junior, who could be allowed to leave on a loan deal this summer, according to journalist Rudy Galetti.

What's the latest Newcastle transfer news?

With Eddie Howe preparing for Champions League football next season, the manager has now identified Villarreal's Samuel Chukwueze as a transfer target, however the likes of AC Milan, Arsenal and Liverpool are also said to be on his tracks.

The Magpies will have to fend off fierce competition to win the race for the Nigerian, but Howe will be well aware of the need to bring in a new winger, given Allan Saint-Maximin's uncertain future, amid interest from teams in the Saudi Pro League, as well as Everton and Crystal Palace.

Harvey Barnes could be brought in as a replacement for the Frenchman, with the PIF pursuing a move for the England international, who is valued at £40m by Leicester CIty, while Iling-Junior is also emerging as an option.

Newcastle were linked with a move for the 19-year-old back in March, alongside Premier League rivals Manchester City and Chelsea, and there are still a number of top clubs vying for his signature.

That is according to Galetti, who recently told GiveMeSport that Juventus could sanction the youngster's departure this summer, but not on a permanent deal.

The journalist said: “Juventus, for sure, this summer will change something in this squad.

“Some players could leave on loan to grow and improve. Samuel Iling-Junior is one of them.

“He could leave Juventus on loan this summer, and many clubs have shown interest in him. From the Premier League, Manchester City, Newcastle, and Chelsea are monitoring his situation.”

Who is Samuel Iling-Junior?

The Juventus ace, who has stated himself that he is "similar" to Leroy Sane, was born in Islington, and made a number of appearances for Chelsea in the Under 18 Premier League, as well as the UEFA Youth League, before he made the switch to the Serie A.

Since then, the Englishman has risen through the ranks at the Allianz Stadium, making his first-team breakthrough last season, picking up one assist in the Champions League, after making a 20-minute cameo in his side;s 4-3 loss against Benfica.

Despite only receiving limited time on the pitch, the starlet received a 7.4 Sofascore rating, the highest of any Juventus player on the night, and he also made an instant impact in the Serie A, managing to score on his full debut for the club.

Fooball Scout Jacek Kulig has heaped praise on the youngster, describing him as a "flamboyant winger", while also outlining his key traits, which are his dribbling, pace, ball control and bravery.

It is still very early days in his career, but Iling-Junior is showing all the signs he could go on to be a top player, so it is exciting news that Newcastle are monitoring his situation.

That said, Howe will surely be hoping they can sign the £11k-per-week winger on a permanent deal, rather than on loan, as he could be a fantastic long-term replacement for Saint-Maximin.

ESPNcricinfo staff02-Jul-20171. Statement in support of cricket
Players resolved first and foremost to express their highest respect for the game of cricket and its fans, and for the great honour of being a professional cricketer in Australia. Players expressed their desire to be on the field playing the game they love, interacting with the fans and supporters of cricket and representing their states and countries as soon as possible.2. Response to the behaviour of CA: players will support their team-mates
Australia’s male and female cricketers expressed disappointment at the conduct of CA during the MoU negotiations. And were concerned that 20 years of good faith partnership had been disrespected and disregarded by CA. The players noted with great pride that the efforts by CA to divide them has had the opposite effect. That across domestic and international lines and between men and women, resolve and unity had grown even stronger. And that for CA to have thought otherwise was to misunderstand what it means to be a member of a team as an Australian cricket player.3. Fair remuneration
Not all players reach the top level of cricket. If they do, players have a relatively short career at that level. As such it was important for all players, men and women, domestic and international to be fairly remunerated for their efforts. The Executive noted in relation to CA’s March offer, that with the removal of accounting tricks and with more realistic assumptions, the overall funding to the players is significantly less than how it has been presented to the players.4. Players to stay united as a matter of principle
The players have resolved that, unless contractually obliged, no male or female players intend to play for a Cricket Australia (CA) team whilst fellow players remain unemployed due to the absence of an MoU. This is an outright rejection of CA’s attempts to divide and rule. It is a resolution which will be revisited at the next and subsequent ACA Executive meetings, since the players remain hopeful that common sense will prevail and a new MoU can still be agreed on fair terms.In terms of contractual obligation:The Executive noted that all players with valid and enforceable contracts (such as multi-year State or BBL deals) will continue to honour them, and will expect their employers to do the same. This includes an expectation of the players sharing in revenue as contained in those contracts. If this is not honoured by their employer, then the enforceability of these contracts will also become questionable.The Executive noted legal advice that a State Player may “accept” or reject an offer to participate on a Tour with CA, such as the proposed Australia A Tour of South Africa.Australia’s Women’s World Cup Squad will continue and complete their Tournament as they agreed to do in good faith prior to the expiration of the MOU. The ACA wished them the best in their endeavours.5. Upcoming Australia A Tour of South Africa by CA
All Australian professional cricketers are not obliged to and are unavailable to Tour South Africa as a part of the Australia A team without an agreed MoU. This decision has been made consistent with resolution 4 above that, unless contractually obliged, no player intends to Tour for a Cricket Australia team whilst others are unemployed courtesy of the expired MOU. And is done in possession of legal advice examining the MOU and mandated player contracts that:The players cannot be contractually required by CA to participate and play in an international Tour, including the Proposed Australia A Tour, beyond 30 June 2017 because:
(a) in the case of CA Contracted Players, their contracts with and obligations to CA will all have expired on 30 June 2017.
(b) in the case of the more than 50% of State Contracted Players, their contracts with and obligations to CA (and their State Associations) will have expired on 30 June 2017.
(c) in the case of the remaining State Contracted Players on multi-year contracts extending beyond 30 June 2017, their State Player Contracts and the MOU acknowledge that a player can either ‘accept’ an offer by CA to Tour or not; there is no compulsion to do so. Also for the period beyond 30 June 2017 there are many important issues that are not agreed in the State Player contract, such as the form of Tour Contract that would apply if no MOU is in place, the applicable Squad, Team and Tour Payments and any applicable list of CA protected sponsors.This decision not to Tour in the absence of a renewed MoU has been discussed and endorsed by the Australia A squad in solidarity. The Australia A squad wishes to represent Australia, and is willing to give CA another opportunity. They will gather in Brisbane on Monday to prepare for the Tour, in a gesture of the players’ continued good faith and in hope that CA will reciprocate by agreeing an MOU on fair terms as soon as possible.6. Tours of Bangladesh and India
Players expressed a strong desire to Tour both Bangladesh and India and urged CA to support them by renewing an MoU on fair terms, allowing the Tours to proceed.However, due to the fact of unemployment and the resolution above, absent an MoU there are no professional cricketers presently obliged or available to Tour.7. The Summer of Cricket
All players expressed a strong desire to participate in the Australian Summer of Cricket and urged CA to support them by renewing an MoU on fair terms so the Summer can proceed.8. Rescuing tours and the Summer of Cricket should there be no MOU: the Employment rights of players
To rescue the Tours and the Summer of Cricket referenced above, if there was no agreed MoU, the ACA will be discussing with the players the assignment to the ACA of an exclusive option to employ or second them.’In contract’ players will also participate in the discussion regarding assigning rights to the ACA to allow them to Tour. This means the ACA could offer to facilitate the availability of players on the right terms to assist those games and series that we all wish to see played.This may extend to the ACA offering the players back to CA on the right terms for the purposes of rescuing the Summer of Cricket. This would be best achieved by an agreed MOU.This option is available to the ACA and could be exercised absent an agreed MOU.It should be regarded as an option for rescuing tours and the Summer of Cricket absent an agreed MOU which remains the clear preference.9. Restraint of Trade
Players have resolved to support any out-of-contract players who are restrained from post-employment professional cricket opportunities. This would apply to any refusal to provide an out-of-contract player with a No Objection Certificate (NOC).It would also apply to any threat to lock players out of future employment opportunities if they engage in an ‘exhibition game’ to raise money for their unemployed team-mates.10. Intellectual Property of the players and The Cricketers’ Brand
The ACA Executive noted that with the passage of the June 30 deadline The Cricketers’ Brand was now looking to sign Sponsorships and arrange Player Appearances on behalf of Australia’s greatest players, now unemployed, and in consultation with player agents.The Cricketers’ Brand has been given approval to work with agents to commence the process of signing Sponsors and to deal with Broadcasters wanting to use these players’ attributes.*Those State players with multi-year State Playing Contracts will continue to honour those agreements, including to attend player Appearances as directed.**CA retains some rights to use out of contract players’ attributes for game promotion and development.11. WaMCAP (Women and Men Cricketer Assistance Plan) funding distribution to players in need
The ACA Executive approved the making of payments to players who need financial assistance from the WaMCAP fund.12. Revenue sharing for all men and women who play professional cricket
The players have affirmed their commitment to all male and female players at both international and domestic level receiving a ‘fair share’ of the revenue they generate for the game. And again, expressed a willingness to make sensible changes to the current model to reach agreement.13. Mediation is still the right process
The players affirm their view that third party mediation at CEO level remains the right process to resolve the current impasse.14. Grassroots Cricket Investment
The ACA Executive continued its call for a review into the current under investment in grassroots cricket and for recommendations to be developed for increasing grassroots investment.And noted that the current level of underinvestment seemed incompatible with the CA decisions to:
– Almost double the number of CA employees over the last five years;
– Grow CA cash reserves to the current level of approximately $70 million; whilst
– Allowing grassroots investment to stagnate at the level of only approximately 12% of revenues.

Turning a team’s mood, mindset and match-day performances around can take months but Faf du Plessis was able to achieve that with his South African side in less than a week

Firdose Moonda at Trent Bridge15-Jul-2017Turning a team’s mood, mindset and match-day performances around can take months but Faf du Plessis was able to achieve that with his South African side in less than a week. Since returning to the squad following the birth of his first child, du Plessis has challenged, chastised and commiserated with his men following their Lord’s defeat. And he has also inspired for them to fight a little harder just by doing that himself.”It’s quite easy for everyone to say how good Faf is,” Chris Morris said. “It’s just his character. He lives for playing for the Proteas and is what a Protea should be. He lives for the team and he leads by example. He puts his body on the line and he doesn’t mind batting for three days to save a Test. When a guy leads from the front, a lot of guys will follow.”Though du Plessis only scored 19 runs before he was caught down the leg-side off a ball he wasn’t quite sure he had hit, his management of his bowlers on the second afternoon spoke to the quality of his leadership. After seeing this first and second-changes seamers, Duanne Olivier and Morris, unable to find their rhythm early on, du Plessis asked the premier pacemen, particularly Morne Morkel, to do more work and then made sure he did not have Olivier and Morris at opposite ends at the same time again.He trusted his spinner, Keshav Maharaj, to start the strangle and spoke to the other two quicks about how they could improve on their poor starts. “Faf is solid and quite clear with his plans and speaks a very good language with the team. He’s an excellent leader,” Morris said.Today, Morris was the biggest beneficiary of that. His first three overs cost 20 runs but after a chat with du Plessis, his next 5.5 went for just 18 runs and he took three wickets. Although the wickets came at the end of the innings, after the other, more serious damage had been done, they also came because Morris had clearer instructions. “The message was clear from Faf: be aggressive and bowl fast. For me that cleared any doubt on what I needed to do,” Morris said.His post-lunch speeds were higher, he forced Liam Dawson into a loose drive that prompted an unsuccessful review, bluffed Moeen Ali with short balls before drawing him into a drive off a fuller one and then set up Stuart Broad, who was expecting a bouncer, with a full, straight ball that struck him on the pad. “That was a decision we made in the moment,” Morris said, explaining how the Broad wicket came about.Overall, South Africa made good use of seamer-friendly bowling conditions and an England approach that is angled towards attacking. “On this wicket, you are quite happy with guys coming at you. There is just enough in this wicket for fast bowlers to be excited, and with overhead conditions, with the ball swinging and the way the Duke moves around, we don’t mind guys coming at us,” Morris said. “Another day Joe [Root] is going to get 190, and another day he will get what he got today. It was a great counterpunch by Joe but we don’t mind it.”Because the counterpunch did not work, South Africa will now, it seems, be able to dictate terms as they aim to square the series. And Morris is quite happy to let du Plessis be the dictator when it comes to knowing how many runs South Africa will need.”800? I have got absolutely no idea,” he said. “The wicket is playing a little bit. It’s got a bit of juice in it. Whatever overhead conditions are… 200 could be enough on the right day. Obviously we’ll try and bat as long as we can, and whatever decision Faf takes that we think will be possible to defend. That number, I don’t know. It’s my third Test. I just do the job and let the captain make the decision.”