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Cameos from de Villiers and Behardien gave an inexperienced bowling attack enough runs as cushion and they used it well to topple Bangladesh

The Report by Mohammad Isam26-Oct-2017
Scorecard and ball-by-ball detailsQuinton De Kock smashed 59 off 44 balls•CHARL DEVENISH/AFP/Getty ImagesAnother match, another win for South Africa: nothing much has changed on this tour. The hosts took the first T20I in Bloemfontein by 20 runs, but for the first time in four weeks, Bangladesh put up a proper fight.Quinton de Kock smacked a half-century, AB de Villiers, in one of his moods, hit eight boundaries in his first 16 balls and Farhaan Behardien produced a fine knock as finisher to take South Africa to a total of 195. Then, Dane Paterson, Andile Phehlukwayo, Beuran Hendricks and debutant Robbie Frylinck picked up two wickets each to keep Bangladesh down to 175 for 9 in 20 overs.Mehidy Hasan and Shakib Al Hasan bowled effectively against a set of rampaging batsmen. Later, Soumya Sarkar and Mohammad Saifuddin did well to put pressure an inexperienced South African attack. It wasn’t enough, but it was something worth talking about from the visitors.After JP Duminy decided to bat, the home side banked on two strong partnerships to post a competitive total. A 79-run second wicket stand between de Villiers and de Kock gave them the foundation before the unbroken 62-run fifth wicket stand between David Miller and Behardien gave them the sparkling finish.Bangladesh’s bowlers started well, taking their earliest first wicket on tour when Mehidy removed Hashim Amla in the second over. De Villiers arrived at the crease at that point and saw de Kock hit three fours before getting down to business himself.He started with two fours off Rubel Hossain in the fifth over that went for 14. He struck Shafiul Islam for four boundaries in the next over that went for 18. In the seventh over, de Villiers hammered Saifuddin for two more fours as South Africa got 44 runs in these three overs.Over the next three overs though, Mehedi and Shakib gave away only 20 runs and that made a difference as de Villiers went for another of his big shots only to hole out to long-off. He finished with 49 off 27 balls.A spell of 27 balls without a boundary was broken in the 12th over when the South African stand-in captain JP Duminy tonked a full toss over deep midwicket. It was the only bad ball in Mehidy’s entire spell, which yielded 2 for 31.Imrul Kayes completed a great catch at long-on to remove Duminy in the 13th over, which also included a marginal run-out call which went South Africa’s way. De Kock, the batsman reprieved, fell lbw to Rubel Hossain in the 15th over, having made 59 off 44 balls. And though he wasn’t too wasn’t happy with the decision he didn’t even try to review it.Behardien and Miller came together with the score on 133 for 4 with five overs left. They only got five boundaries in that time, but by pinching twos at every opportunity, they were still able to ransack 62 runs.Bangladesh took to the chase in earnest, Kayes smashing the first ball from Paterson for four over mid-off and Sarkar joining in with a massive six over mid-on.They kept up with the required rate while the field restrictions were on – for the cost of Kayes’ wicket – but their hopes of building on such a fine start were put to bed by Frylinck and Phehlukwayo. One made Shakib his maiden T20I wicket and the other trapped Sarkar lbs for 47.Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah followed Sarkar to the pavilion, leaving Bangladesh at 101 for 5 in the 12th over. The contest was as good as done when Sabbir Rahman, the last specialist batsman, fell 15 balls later. Paterson added the exclamation point to that statement, taking two wickets in two balls, one of them off a scorching yorker, as Bangladesh kept unravelling.It was against this backdrop that Saifuddin made a composed 39 off 27 balls. He hadn’t allowed South Africa to get too many in the last over of their innings and he ensured they wouldn’t bowl Bangladesh out, taking 15 runs off the last over of the match.

Nottingham Forest seem set to lose one of their talismanic attackers, Anthony Elanga, in the coming days.

It appears that the Sweden star will sign for Newcastle United in the coming days for £55m, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that the winger has completed his medical with the North Eastern side.

As a result, Forest need a new winger to don Garibaldi Red next season. Sky Sports suggested that they ‘are interested in a deal’ to sign PSV Eindhoven winger Johan Bakayoko and they are thought to have made an approach to the Dutch outfit to enquire about his availability this summer.

However, Bakayoko is not the only player on the list to replace Elanga, with Forest linked with a few more options out wide.

Nottingham Forest target new winger

It is certainly a frustrating situation that Forest find themselves in, having to replace Elanga this summer. However, the fee they are receiving is substantial, and allows them to sign a suitable replacement. Bakyoko is certainly not their only option.

In fact, according to journalist Greame Bailey, one of the players who Forest are considering to replace their number 21 is Ipswich Town star Omari Hutchinson.

Bailey explains that there is a ‘whole host of options out there’, but confirms that Hutchinson is one player the East Midlands side are considering.

At this stage, a price for the England U21 star has not been confirmed. However, given he cost the Tractor Boys £20m from Chelsea last summer, they would surely look to break even on the attacker, at the very least.

Why Hutchinson would be a good signing for Forest

At just 21 years of age, Hutchinson impressed in his first full season as a Premier League footballer. Once described as an “outstanding” player by football scout Antonio Mango, he would be an investment for both the present and future of Forest.

Last season, the versatile attacker, who has played for both Arsenal and Chelsea’s academies, played 31 times in the top flight for Ipswich. He bagged three goals and two assists, all of which came against some big sides, including both Chelsea and Manchester United.

Hutchinson was also a key member of England’s U21 European Championship-winning side last month under Lee Carsley. He played in all six games, including 98 minutes in the final against Germany, where he scored as England won 3-2 in extra time.

As a replacement for Elanga, there is no doubt that the Ipswich star would have a lot of work to do to match his numbers. The Sweden international managed six goals and 11 assists in 38 Premier League games last season.

However, there are similarities between the players, and Bakayoko, too, who managed 15 goals and assists last term.

Elanga and Hutchinson, in particular, are versatile and can play either flank or as a number 10. Bakayoko, too, is naturally a right winger.

The 21-year-old is naturally a left-footed player, and likes to cut inside on his strong foot when playing on the right-hand side. Just look at this goal he scored against Man United, picking up the ball in the right half-space, driving inside and firing home.

Indeed, the stats on FBref stack up well for Hutchinson against the other two players. For example, the Ipswich star stands out when looking at progressive numbers. Last season, he was averaging 1.57 passes into the final third per 90 minutes, more than Elanga’s 1.15 and Bakayoko’s 1.37 each game.

Key passes

1.08

1.80

2.60

Passes into final third

1.57

1.15

1.37

Progressive passes

2.61

2.27

3.60

Take-ons completed

1.78

0.90

2.69

Ball recoveries

3.83

3.20

2.49

Even though a price is not clear at this stage, a deal for Hutchinson could be a snart move for Forest. He has shown elite potential and versatility, and is already comparing well against Elanga and another of their targets in Bakayoko.

As far as an Elanga replacement goes, this could be a dream move for Forest this summer, and help them build for the present and the future.

Forget Fofana: Nottingham Forest could land instant Elanga upgrade for £34m

Nottingham Forest could replace Anthony Elanga with a current Premier League star

ByRoss Kilvington Jul 5, 2025

Hollywood superstar Timothee Chalamet has used Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal to help promote his new film ‘Marty Supreme’, with the teenage forward living proof that you should always 'dream big'. Chalamet has shared an iconic image of teen sensation Yamal alongside Argentine GOAT Lionel Messi to help hammer home his point that anything is possible.

Heir to Messi: Yamal following in illustrious footsteps

Yamal famously starred in an advertising campaign with Barcelona legend Messi when just a baby. That picture has resurfaced on countless occasions since, with it remarkable to think that that new arrival to the world is now following in the most illustrious of footsteps.

Having made his own way through the fabled La Masia academy system, making his senior debut at just 15 years of age, Yamal is now considered to be a suitable heir to Messi’s crown as the king of world football.

AdvertisementSuperstar status: Yamal is now a global icon

Yamal’s exploits have, just like Messi, attracted interest from across the globe. His level of celebrity already transcends his chosen profession, with the youngster much more than a football player. He boasts support in every corner of the planet.

That includes Hollywood, with famous faces in the United States fully aware of who Yamal is and what he is capable of. His story is an intriguing one and helps to showcase what can be achieved through a mixture of ability and hard work.

Yamal helps Chalamet to promote new movie

Chalamet – the star of blockbuster movies such as ‘Wonka’ and ‘Dune’, who is dating Kim Kardashian’s sister Kylie Jenner – is among those to have been taken in by Yamal’s remarkable rise to prominence.

He is, as an A-list actor, somebody that appreciates an inspirational true story. He is proving as much after returning to the big screen in ‘Marty Supreme’ – a tale loosely inspired by American table tennis player Marty Reisman and his pursuit of fame in 1950s New York.

Chalamet is driving interest in that production, which hits cinemas on December 25, with a global promotional tour. He has drafted in assistance from Barcelona talisman Yamal, with the 18-year-old seen sporting the viral ‘Marty Supreme’ jacket.

Chalamet has shared an image of Yamal in that merchandise alongside a “DREAM BIG” message. He has also made a point of including the aforementioned photo of Yamal with eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi in an Instagram carousel.

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social gfx/ Getty ImagesThe story of Yamal baby picture with Messi

The picture in question was taken back in 2007 as part of a photoshoot for UNICEF. Joan Monfort, a Barcelona-based freelance photographer for the Associated Press, took the snap – which took on a life of its own after being shared on social media by Yamal’s father Mounir Nasraoui alongside the tagline: “The beginning of two legends.”

Monfort has since said of capturing an iconic moment: “UNICEF did a raffle in the neighbourhood of Roca Fonda in Mataro where Lamine's family lived. They signed up for the raffle to have their picture taken at the Camp Nou with a Barca player. And they won the raffle.

“He [Messi] didn't even know how to hold him at first. Messi is a pretty introverted guy, he's shy. He was coming out of the locker room and suddenly he finds himself in another locker room with a plastic tub full of water and a baby in it. It was complicated.

“It’s very exciting to be associated with something that has caused such a sensation. It’s been really surprising, all this. We take so many photos, so many images. Some of them will remain.

“For Lamine to grow up to be a footballer, and to have this photo, I’m just really happy it happened. It’s especially nice in today’s football, when so much is to do with money and power.”

Yamal has sought to distance himself from the Messi comparisons that he continues to generate, with there a desire on his part to forge a unique legacy of his own. He is already a La Liga and European Championship title winner with Barcelona and Spain, with the expectation being that he will continue to “dream big” in the not too distant future when landing a first Ballon d’Or.

Fabrizio Romano has provided a big update in the Moises Caicedo saga involving Liverpool.

The Ecuadorian looks set to leave Brighton this summer

What is the latest Moises Caicedo transfer news?

The Caicedo saga took a shock turn on Thursday.

All window long, Chelsea have seemingly been leading the race for the midfielder, having seen multiple bids rejected throughout the window, with the most recent offer of £80m being rejected instantly by the south coast side, who are keen to keep one of their stars ahead of their first season in European football. Caicedo has informed the club of his desire to depart this summer, and has even missed training sessions in an attempt to force Brighton's hand, however the club have stood firm.

Liverpool have now made their move to try and bring the player to Anfield, however there are conflicting reports regarding the saga. According to Matt Law, the Merseyside club have submitted a bigger bid for Caicedo than the Blues have managed all window, presumably in response to the London sides £48m bid for Romeo Lavia, who has been the subject of Liverpool's transfer saga. On the other hand, Paul Joyce reports that Liverpool have not bid Caicedo, but instead have just made contact with the South Coast club for information on the situation as part of their "due diligence" in the transfer market, despite the Merseyside club believing that he will still join Chelsea.

German giants Bayern Munich have also reportedly joined the race for the player, who is valued at £100m. However, with the club still pursuing a deal for Tottenham Hotspur forward Harry Kane, it is hard to see the side managing two big money deals this window.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano revealed that Liverpool have made contact and are preparing a verbal bid for the midfielder, with Brighton just wanting to sell to the highest bidder.

"In the morning, Liverpool made contact with Brighton, preparing an approach and a verbal bid for Moises Caicedo, so it’s true that Liverpool contacted Brighton and they wanted to enter into the race for Moises Caicedo. That’s the reality, trying to enter at the final stages because as I told you yesterday, Chelsea feel close to signing Caicedo but they still don’t have full agreement with Brighton. So, Liverpool wanted to enter and there was a call from Bayern, who wanted to be informed on the situation.

"On the player's side, the feeling from all the clubs is that Chelsea remain ahead in this story, we know that Chelsea have been working on this for a long time, but of course now for Brighton they are entering into a crucial moment, they have to make a decision, and Brighton’s intention is to sell the player to the biggest opportunity on the financial point of view, so the biggest bid is the one they want to accept, so let’s see what happens."

Read the latest Liverpool transfer news HERE…

Would Caicedo be a good signing for Liverpool?

Moises Caicedo would be the final piece of Jurgen Klopp's midfield rebuild.

So far this summer, the Reds have sold both Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to Al Ettifaq and Al Ittihad respectively, whilst letting Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita and James MIlner all leave on free transfers. The side have moved to replace them, bringing in Dominik Szoboszlai from German club RB Leipzig by activating his £60m release clause, as well as adding Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton for his release clause of £35m. However, the side still lacks a real defensive stalwart to partner Trent Alexander-Arnold in the pivot, and that is where the Ecuadorian shines.

The 21-year-old recorded an average match rating of 7.08 last season according to Sofascore, whilst also winning 2.7 tackles and 1.5 interceptions per 90. The midfielder is also an impressive player in build up, completing 89% of his passes and averaging 1.2 key passes per match. The idea of linking back up with former teammate Mac Allister is also an exciting prospect, with journalist Julien Laurens stating:

"The Mac Allister – Caicedo partnership is just so so good. They are exactly what Liverpool need so badly."

It will be a tough deal to pull off, but it could be the final piece of the puzzle for Liverpool in terms of rebuilding their midfield.

Inter Milan teenager Kevin Zefi has been seen as a potential summer signing by Newcastle United in the summer transfer window and a big update has now emerged.

How old is Kevin Zefi?

The Irishman is just 18 years old currently and moved to Inter from Shamrock Rovers two years ago, such was his ability as a young and emerging footballer.

While Zefi is yet to make a senior first-team appearances for the Serie A giants, he has shone in the youth teams, scoring six goals and registering seven assists for the Under-17 side, as well as an incredible 16 strikes in just 13 games for the Under-18 outfit.

The young winger signed his first professional deal last years and is contracted at Inter until the summer of 2024, but it could be that he moves on before the current transfer window closes at the end of this month.

Newcastle have emerged as strong potential suitors for Zefi and a fresh update further suggests that he could be plying his trade at St James' Park in the very near future.

Will Newcastle sign Kevin Zefi?

Eddie Howe revealed Lewis Hall would be the last first-team signing, but according to NUFC Blog, Newcastle are now expected to sign Zefi for the academy:

"Newcastle United look set to follow the signings of AC Milan youngster Cathal Heffernan and Chelsea’s Lewis Hall with the arrival of fellow 18-year-old Kevin Zefi.

"Zefi is being advised by former Toon defender Stephen Carr and is set to join our U21s after a breakthrough in talks. He also plays at international level alongside Toon duo Alex Murphy and Reece Byrne; two players Dan Ashworth has brought to the club’s academy over the past 12 months."

This is a very exciting update for Newcastle, as they continue to show that they are not only planning for the present, instead making sure they sign young players with big futures in the game.

In Zefi, they have someone who is considered something of a wonderkid, with former coach Shane Robinson explaining what makes him so special:

“Kevin is that type of player that catches the eye easily – he backs himself 100% in possession of the ball. He has lovely balance and uses his body very well to protect the ball.

"He has worked very hard on his overall game over the last number of years and deserves credit for that, he has gone up through the levels impressively from U15 to U19 with First Division appearances last season also."

While Zefi clearly wouldn't be arriving as an important member of the senior setup to begin with, given his lack of experience, he is someone who could continue to start at youth team level, gradually blossoming into a top-level footballer who can cut it on the biggest stage.

Read the latest Newcastle transfer news HERE…

It is always hard to gauge how a youngster will develop, with injuries and work ethic always potentially getting in the way, but the former Shamrock ace has all the tools to make it and could be a future hero on Tyneside.

Ange Postecoglou made a number of impressive additions for Celtic during his two-year spell at Parkhead and right-back Alistair Johnston is proving himself to be one of them.

The Australian head coach, who has since moved on to Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur, was unable to unearth a host of gems for the Bhoys; including the likes of Kyogo Furuhashi, Jota, Matt O'Riley, and Cameron Carter-Vickers.

Brendan Rodgers is now tasked with carrying on the talented tactician's work and will hope that his nine new signings have similar success at Paradise.

Nat Phillips, Paulo Bernardo, Maik Nawrocki, Gustaf Lagerbielke, Hyun-jun Yang, Hyeok-kyu Kwon, Marco Tilio, Odin Thiago Holm, and Luis Palma all came through the door this summer to bolster the squad, either permanently or on loan.

The Hoops and Rodgers will be hoping that they can progress in the same way that Johnston has in his short time in Scotland as the superb defender has been a fantastic signing so far and there could be more to come from him.

The Canada international produced an excellent display against Rangers in the Old Firm clash on Sunday in what was just his second Scottish Premiership appearance of the season.

How did Alistair Johnston perform against Rangers?

He lined up at right-back for the big league match at the weekend and played a key role in the 1-0 win over their rivals with a strong defensive performance.

As per Sofascore, Johnston won seven of his 11 physical contests throughout the match and made five tackles alongside two clearances against the speedy Rabbi Matondo, who posed a threat on the counter with his immense pace.

The Hoops star stuck to his task against the former Manchester City starlet and none of his teammates managed to make as many tackles as him on the day, with Matt O'Riley's four challenges being the closest, showing that the exceptional enforcer was a brick wall in defence for the Northern Irish boss.

He has become accustomed to putting in fantastic performances at the back for Celtic over the last nine months, which has been reflected in his market valuation.

Postecoglou hit the jackpot with the 24-year-old as his value has soared since making the move to Parkhead in January, thanks to his excellent displays on the pitch.

How much was Alistair Johnston worth at CF Montreal?

At the time of his switch from the MLS in January of this year, Football Transfers estimated Johnston's Expected Transfer Value (xTV) at €1.7m (£1.4m) after his form for Montreal throughout 2022.

The strong defence, who was once described as a "warrior" by international teammate Kamal Miller, made 35 MLS appearances over the course of the year and averaged a Sofascore rating of 6.93.

He showcased his attacking quality with four goals and seven 'big chances' created, alongside one key pass per match from a right-back position, which proved that the Canadian could burst forward to make things happen at the top end of the pitch.

The 24-year-old did not shy away from his defensive duties as he made 2.4 tackles and interceptions per match and a 50% duel success rate, more than holding his own in physical battles.

What is Alistair Johnston's market value now?

Johnston has spent nine months in Scotland since those performances in the MLS for Montreal and his form for Celtic has caused his market value to soar.

FootballTransfers currently rate his xTV at €5m (£4.2m), meaning that his valuation has rocketed up by roughly 194% in less than a year at Parkhead.

The Hoops number two has seen his stock rise primarily because he has he delivered consistently impressive appearances for Postecoglou during the second half of last season.

Why is he worth that much?

He hit the ground running in the Scottish Premiership and proved himself to be capable of catching the eye week-in-week-out at right-back.

Johnston averaged a Sofascore rating of 7.20 across 14 league starts for the club last term, which was the sixth-best score within the squad and the third-best of any current Hoops player now that Josip Juranovic, Jota, and Carl Starfelt have all moved on.

This shows that the former MLS star was one of the team's outstanding performers despite having never played a minute of football in Europe prior to 2023, indicating that he adapted quickly to his new surroundings and did not need a period to settle in.

The Celtic hotshot caught the eye with his contributions at both ends of the pitch. Going forward, the former Nashville talent created five 'big chances' for his teammates and produced 1.2 key passes per game as he provided a consistent attacking threat from full-back to break down the opposition's defence.

To put those numbers into context, Anthony Ralston, who is his competition for a place in the side at right-back, only created one 'big chance' in 16 league appearances for the Scottish giants last season. Clearly, Johnston is able to offer considerably more than the academy graduate at the top end of the field.

Defensively, the Canada international, who started three games at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar for his country, made 2.7 tackles and interceptions per match and won 52% of his duels, as per Sofascore, compared to Ralston's two tackles and interceptions per game for the Hoops.

These numbers suggest that Johnston is a better option than the Scottish defender at right-back as a result of his ability in and out of possession. Indeed, he can win possession back more frequently whilst also being able to create better opportunities for his teammates to score from.

His Premiership form has also been an improvement on his performances for Montreal in the MLS and that is why his soaring market value is justified. The young stopper has truly developed his game and improved as not just a defender but as an attacker.

At the age of 24, the marauding ace also has plenty of time left to grow further and increase his market value even more. For that reason, Postecoglou hit the jackpot with this signing in January.

Johnston has already made himself a valuable asset to Celtic and now has the potential to earn the club a significant payday in the future if his positive progression continues over the months and years to come.

Everton look to be closing in on an exciting offensive signing in Sporting Lisbon's Youssef Chermiti, with manager Sean Dyche making improvements on his side ahead of the 23/24 Premier League campaign.

Is Youssef Chermiti joining Everton?

According to multiple reports – including BBC Sport – the Toffees are closing in on the transfer of the 19-year-old Chermiti for about £13m, with Dyche working to bolster his squad after admitting he has missed out on targets already.

Bournemouth and Wolverhampton Wanderers are both said to have sent scouts to observe the talent in action, but it is the Merseyside outfit who have convinced the Portugal youth international to kickstart his professional career at Goodison Park.

Portuguese outlet, O Jogo – via Sport Witness – have furthered claims by suggesting on Tuesday that the player is now 'one step away' from moving to Goodison Park.

It is unlikely that Chermiti will be deployed as the club's starring cente-forward instantaneously, rather, integrated into the side and utilised as a precocious back-up option.

Who is Youssef Chermiti?

In a circular arc of perfect harmony, Everton's Ellis Simms has joined Coventry City for £8m; Viktor Gyokeres has departed the Robins and headed for Sporting Lisbon for £20m, with Chermiti now completing the merry-go-round of activity by moving to Dyche's side.

Simms was a peripheral figure at the club and only scored one goal from 11 Premier League matches last term, so the deal struck is probably good value for money.

Chermiti is viewed as a long-term option, and as a player who is more than capable of wedging their way into the talismanic role that Dominic Calvert-Lewin currently occupies.

Indeed, the "raw diamond" who is "much like" Calvert Lewin – as he has been described by Zach Lowy, impressed last season as he broke into the Leões first-team, scoring three goals and supplying two assists from just nine starting appearances in the Liga Portugal.

And while he is yet to cement a regular starting berth for himself, with FBref ranking him among the top 10% of forwards across Men's Next Eight divisions over the past year for assists, the top 15% for non-penalty xG – expected goals – and the top 4% for touches in the attacking box, he clearly has the ability to thrive.

While he is greatly underperforming his xG at present – ranking among only the top 56% for goals per 90 – his xG metric, partnered with his offensive positioning in the final third suggests that he has the tools to flourish in the future and could prosper as the understudy to the 6 foot 2 Calvert-Lewin. Indeed, Chermiti is 6 foot 4 and has also been called "imposing" by Lowy. Sound familiar?

He would certainly be an upgrade on Neal Maupay too, who was signed for the Toffees from Brighton & Hove Albion for a reported £15m one year ago but has failed miserably during his time at the club, scoring just once from 29 matches in the top-flight and being branded a "disaster" by journalist Paul Brown.

Hardly an imposing figure at 5 foot 8 either, it's evident Chermiti would provide his new manager with a huge upgrade in terms of physicality and all-round presence when leading the line.

Praised as a "superb" prospect by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Everton must now make use of their imminent acquisition and nurture him to prominence over the coming months; it is refreshing to see the club target youthful promise instead of subpar seniors, and it might just pay off and signify a change of direction.

Kusal Mendis has been omitted from Sri Lanka’s T20I squad for the two-match series against Bangladesh; Kusal Perera’s inclusion subject to fitness

Andrew Fidel Fernando02-Apr-20171:03

Fernando: Selectors seem to want Kusal to focus on ODIs, Tests

Kusal Mendis has been omitted from Sri Lanka’s T20I squad for the two-match series against Bangladesh, while spin-bowling allrounder Shehan Jayasuriya has been called up. Also in the squad is Thisara Perera – who had not been in Sri Lanka’s recent T20I squad to Australia – and opener Danushka Gunathilaka, who returns to the T20 XI after recovering from injury.Kusal Perera has also been named, but his participation is subject to recovery from a thigh strain that ruled him out of the ODIs. If he fails the fitness test, Sandun Weerakkody – the batsman who made his debut in South Africa – will take his place. Upul Tharanga leads the side in Angelo Mathews’ continued absence.T20s have been Mendis’ least successful format – he averages 9.25 with a strike rate of 123 in eight T20 international innings. Chief selector Sanath Jayasuriya said he may not be picked in T20s in the near future, so that he can concentrate on the longer formats, in which he has begun to excel. Mendis was the player of the series in the recently-concluded ODI series against Bangladesh. He was also the player of the tournament during the tri-series in Zimbabwe last year, and has played at least two match-winning Test innings over the past year.”Kusal Mendis has got a long career ahead of him and we do not want to burden him with too many things,” Jayasuriya said. “He had a very good Test and ODI series against Bangladesh and at this stage we don’t want him to alter too many things in his game.”Thisara’s reinclusion is thanks largely to his good performances with the bat in the recent ODIs, in which he struck two half-centuries in three matches. Jayasuriya meanwhile, has been playing for Sri Lanka’s Emerging Team in the ACC competition currently being played in Bangladesh.The first of two T20s – both to be played at R Premadasa Stadium – is scheduled for April 4.Sri Lanka squad: Upul Tharanga (capt.), Dilshan Munaweera, Danushka Gunathilaka, Kusal Perera (subject to fitness), Lasith Malinga, Isuru Udana, Nuwan Kulasekara, Dasun Shanaka, Vikum Sanjaya, Milinda Siriwardana, Asela Gunaratne, Seekkuge Prasanna, Chamara Kapugedara, Thisara Perera, Lakshan Sandakan, Shehan Jayasuriya.On standby: Sandun Weerakkody

Newcastle United dispatched Arsenal 1-0 at St James' Park on Saturday evening and now attention turns back to the Champions League.

The Magpies face a trip to Signal Iduna Park on Tuesday night to take on Borussia Dortmund and seek revenge after losing 1-0 against them at the end of October.

Eddie Howe is currently dealing with an overflowing injury table as key stars, such as; Alexander Isak, Sven Botman and Harvey Barnes all remain sidelined, meaning he could name a similar lineup to the one that recorded victory over the Gunners.

Considering the Toon are fighting for a place in the Champions League knockout stages, the Englishman can ill-afford to rest his key players with only one change expected to be made. Here's the predicted lineup for their clash with Dortmund.

1 GK – Nick Pope

Only Manchester City have conceded fewer xG in the Premier League than Newcastle United's 10.32, as per Understat, and Nick Pope has played a pivotal role in that statistic, making crucial saves and showcasing his presence in between the sticks.

2 RB – Tino Livramento

Livramento replaced the injured Dan Burn at half-time against Arsenal and the "phenomenal" full-back, as described by journalist Thomas Hammond, impressed with his all-action display against the Gunners. With Burn now sidelined, the 21-year-old can now have an extended run in the team, starting against Dortmund on Tuesday. This would be his first Champions League start too; timely.

3 CB: Jamal Lascelles

Sven Botman's injury opened up the opportunity for Jamal Lascelles to showcase his defensive attributes in the heart of the Toon defence and he's done so in fine fashion, captaining the side to clean sheets in victories over Burnley, Crystal Palace and Arsenal. The 29-year-old will continue marshalling Howe's backline against Dortmund.

4 CB: Fabian Schar

Having conjured up a wonder strike against PSG in the Champions League, Fabian Schar has been the man for the big occasion this term. He will start alongside Lascelles once more versus Dortmund where he has the unenviable task of dealing with the pacey and direct Donyell Malen, should he start down that side.

5 LB: Kieran Trippier

With Burn sidelined, Howe could shuffle Trippier across to left back, a position he's played on numerous occasions for England, to accommodate Livramento into the starting eleven. The Englishman, who has posted seven assists this term, is crucial to their attacking output, utilising his wand of a right foot from set pieces.

6 CM: Joelinton

The "monster" – as dubbed by journalist Aaron Stokes for his rapid rise to stardom in a Newcastle shirt – Joelinton's explosive ball-carrying and industry will be crucial to them winning the midfield battle on Tuesday.

7 CM: Bruno Guimaraes

Whilst Joe Willock is knocking on the door for a starting spot, Bruno Guimaraes has firmly closed it on the Englishman. The 25-year-old is the lynchpin of Howe's midfield, with his strength and aggression vital to his side regaining possession. He is one of several Newcastle players who are undroppable at the moment.

8 CM: Sean Longstaff

An immovable object at the heart of Newcastle's midfield this term, Sean Longstaff's tough-tackling and energetic midfield performances have earned him a spot in the midfield alongside Joelinton and Guimaraes.

9 RW: Miguel Almiron

The fleet-footed winger is vital to Newcastle launching their explosive counter-attacks and enjoys cutting in on his peach of a left foot. Having already scored against PSG this term, he will pose a huge threat to Remy Bensebaini, who is likely to start at left-back for the hosts.

10 LW: Anthony Gordon

Although he is yet to register a goal or an assist in the Champions League, Anthony Gordon has been in scintillating form on the left flank for the Toon, frightening the life out of defenders with his pace and trickery while posting four goals and two assists in the top flight, including the winner against Arsenal last time out.

The result of the tri-series match between Sri Lanka and West Indies could well hinge on how the two inexperienced batting line-ups handle the seam-friendly conditions at the Harare Sports Club

The Preview by Liam Brickhill15-Nov-2016Match FactsWednesday, November 16
Start time 0930 local (0730 GMT)Zimbabwe didn’t test Sri Lanka’s inexperienced batting line-up on Monday, but West Indies’ attack could pose a bigger threat•AFPBig PictureVisiting teams to Zimbabwe often use their time here as a looking glass into the future: which new combinations might be worth exploring? Who are the up-and-coming players? Who’s staking a claim for the next major tour? While West Indies’ circumstances might be a little more tempestuous, both they and Sri Lanka have picked forward-thinking squads for this series, and there is plenty to prove on both sides.This is particularly true of the batsmen. Darren Bravo has been culled from West Indies’ squad for his outburst on Twitter, and they are also missing batsman Marlon Samuels, wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin and allrounder Kieron Pollard, depriving them of a combined 521 ODIs’ worth of experience. With 44 ODIs to his name Johnson Charles is, by some distance, West Indies’ most experienced batsman. Several somewhat unknown entities have a chance to stake a claim.The same goes for Sri Lanka, who already have one eye on their tour of South Africa in the new year. Sri Lanka have captain Upul Tharanga’s 189-match ODI experience to call upon, with Kusal Perera’s international nous to back him up, but not an awful lot beyond that. Their relative familiarity with Zimbabwean conditions and the sparkling form of young batsman Dhananjaya de Silva may give them an advantage, but they will likely find themselves more tested by West Indies’ attack than by anything Zimbabwe have thrown at them in the last few weeks.Sulieman Benn and Sunil Narine have their wiles, and Shannon Gabriel’s improved fitness and balanced action enhances his menace. Captain Jason Holder will be personally buoyed by his recent second innings five-for against Pakistan in Sharjah, but the Bravo imbroglio may dampen the momentum West Indies gained from their historic Test success over Pakistan.Or it may not, given that in recent times West Indies have rarely seemed more than a tweet or two away from controversy, and weathering such storms is all in a day’s work for them. On the field, however, conditions are setting this match up as a middleweight fight that will favour the most sturdy batsmen and most incisive bowlers on either side.Form GuideSri Lanka: WLLLW (Last five completed matches, most recent first)
West Indies: LLLLWIn the SpotlightKraigg Brathwaite’s Herculean efforts in Sharjah helped secure West Indies’ five-wicket win there, but his one-day record remains rather more modest than his Test record. With no Samuels or Bravo to provide the ballast in West Indies’ top order, West Indies will be looking to Brathwaite to step up and glue the top order together.Sri Lanka’s questions around their inexperienced middle order are yet to be answered, given the tiny target and limp bowling attack they faced on Monday. How they stand up to the greater challenge provided by West Indies may be crucial to their overall success.With 44 ODIs, Johnson Charles is the most experienced top-order batsman in West Indies’ tri-series squad•AFPTeam NewsMultiple changes to their squad will have shaken West Indies up somewhat, and despite their long-form success in the UAE, West Indies’ recent 3-0 defeat in the ODIs against Pakistan will be in the back of their minds. All the new names in their batting line-up have a chance to clean the slate, and there are several middle-order slots up for grabs and several all-round options.West Indies (possible): 1 Johnson Charles, 2 Kraigg Brathwaite, 3 Evin Lewis, 4 Jason Mohammed, 5 Shai Hope, 6 Shane Dowrich (wk), 7 Jonathan Carter, 8 Carlos Brathwaite, 9 Jason Holder (c), 10 Sulieman Benn, 11 Shannon GabrielShehan Jayasuriya came in for some tap from Peter Moor on Monday, but there is no urgent reason for Sri Lanka to tinker with their XI. When the tri-series moves to Bulawayo, they will have expanded opportunities to play their spinners, and there should be a similar make-up to their line-up against West Indies.Sri Lanka (probable): 1 Dhananjaya de Silva, 2 Kusal Perera, 3 Niroshan Dickwella (wk), 4 Kusal Mendis, 5 Upul Tharanga (c), 6 Asela Gunaratne, 7 Shehan Jayasuriya, 8 Sachith Pathirana, 9 Nuwan Kulasekara, 10 Suranga Lakmal, 11 Nuwan PradeepPitch and conditionsZimbabwe coach Heath Streak suggested it wasn’t so much the grass on the pitch as the clouds overhead that aided swing and seam on Monday, and both the pitch and weather conditions are expected to be very similar. Much of the day is expected to be cloudy and overcast, with occasional sunny spells, while there may well be thunderstorms in the afternoon.Stats and trivia In 54 ODIs between these countries, West Indies hold the advantage with 27 wins to Sri Lanka’s 24. Yet that is weighted somewhat by West Indies’ yesteryear prowess. Sri Lanka have won six of the last seven matches between the teams Suranga Lakmal is Sri Lanka’s leading wicket-taker this year, with 11 scalps from eight matches at 26.72 West Indies last visited Zimbabwe in 2007-08, when they won a five-match series 3-1, with one game abandonedQuotes”We’ve been facing Carl Mumba who has been bowling very fast, so West Indies’ pace won’t be a problem, rather the ball seaming around will be the challenge for us.”
“It’s obviously a big impact to lose senior guys with experience who bring pedigree to your side. It’s a situation where we have to cope with what we have, and gel together as quickly as possible.”