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The Women’s FA Cup has just as much magic as its male equivalent, with the finale’s place at the end of the domestic calendar handing two teams the opportunity to finish the campaign on a high in front of a large capacity crowd.

That has only been heightened by the welcome rise in prominence within the women’s game of late, with the FA Cup final being held at Wembley Stadium since 2015.

While the national stadium has typically only been half full for such occasions in the past, the 2023 final between Chelsea and Manchester United saw over 77,000 witness the Blues secure a third straight triumph through Sam Kerr’s winner.

Large crowds like these are now the norm for showpiece women’s events, particularly at Wembley, with the FA Cup final and England internationals well in the habit of bringing in spectators en masse.

The 2024 final was further evidence of this, with United’s win over Tottenham Hotspur again drawing in over 75,000 supporters.

But who are the most successful clubs in the FA Cup’s history? Here is a look at the history of the competition and a detailed look at the most recent finals.

Women's FA Cup history timeline

1970: Following the lifting of a ban on women’s football, which had stood for nearly 50 years, the first FA Cup tournament is held by the Women’s Football Association (WFA). The National Sports Centre in Crystal Palace hosts the first final in 1971, won by Southampton Women’s FC.

1993: The Football Association takes administrative control of the competition, along with the rest of women’s football in England.

2015: The final is held at Wembley Stadium for the first time, as 30,000 spectators see Chelsea defeat Notts County 1-0.

2023: A world-record crowd attends a domestic cup final, nearly 12 months on from the Euro 2022 final at a sold-out Wembley.

2024/25 Women's FA Cup

The 2024/25 FA Cup takes place on Sunday, 18th May, one day after the men’s event. This year’s women’s final is between Chelsea and Manchester United, in what is a repeat of the 2023 final.

Chelsea are going for a treble after being crowned as unbeaten champions and having won the League Cup back in March, while holders United are defending their FA Cup crown, which was won through their 4-0 triumph over Tottenham Hotspur in May 2024.

It has been an exceptional first year in charge for Sonia Bompastor since replacing Emma Hayes, with the Blues’ only defeats this term coming in the Champions League to Manchester City and Barcelona.

Manchester United are looking to end the season on a high after having to settle for third following their 4-3 defeat to Arsenal on the final day of the WSL season.

Women’s FA Cup past winners

18 different clubs have won the Women’s FA Cup, with Arsenal being the record winners, having won it 14 times.

Southampton Women’s FC is the next-most successful club, winning eight times, most recently in 1981.

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s record is only bettered by Doncaster Belles, who appeared in 11 out of 12 finals between 1983 and 1994, winning six times. However, the Blues can draw level with them in 2025.

Club

Times won

Last won

Arsenal

14

2016

Southampton Women’s FC

8

1981

Doncaster Belles

6

1994

Chelsea

5

2023

Manchester City

3

2020

Charlton Athletic

3

2005

Everton

2

2010

Fulham

2

2003

Millwall Lionesses

2

1997

Manchester United

1

2024

Birmingham City

1

2012

Norwich City

1

1986

AFC Wimbledon Women

1

1985 (as Friends of Fulham)

Howbury Grange

1

1984

Lowestoft Ladies

1

1982

St Helens

1

1980

Queen’s Park Rangers

1

1977

Fodens

1

1974

Previous FA Cup finals 12th May 2024: Manchester United 4-0 Tottenham Hotspur

Manchester United sealed their first FA Cup triumph against first-time finalists Tottenham Hotspur in 2024 in a comprehensive victory at Wembley.

Ella Toone got the ball rolling just before the end of the first period, with her long-range rocket adding to her catalogue of big-game goals.

The second half saw Spurs tire and crumble under the wave of United attacks, with Rachel Williams’ header and Lucia Garcia’s double seeing the Red Devils run out deserved winners.

Beth England came closest for the runners-up when her header smashed the bar, but there could be no complaints about the final result as United claimed their first major trophy.

14th May 2023: Chelsea 1-0 Manchester United

Chelsea secured a league and cup double in 2023 after battling to a 1-0 victory over Manchester United. Marc Skinner’s side had most of the better chances, particularly in the first half when they had a goal ruled out for offside in the opening minute and forced Ann-Katrin Berger into a number of important saves.

Sam Kerr turned home Pernille Harder’s pinpoint cross in the second half, to which the Red Devils had no reply.

15th May 2022: Chelsea 3-2 Manchester City (aet)

The Blues edged a five-goal thriller against United’s closest rivals in 2022. Sam Kerr nodded Chelsea ahead before Lauren Hemp equalised just before half-time.

Erin Cuthbert’s screamer restored the Blues’ lead and had looked set to be the match-winner until Hayley Raso’s fine finish forced extra time.

Both sides had chances in the extra period, but Kerr took the crucial one in the 99th minute, with her deflected strike handing Chelsea another FA Cup.

5th December 2021: Arsenal 0-3 Chelsea

Postponed due to the pandemic, the 2021 finale took place nearly seven months later than usual. The date chosen for the final came a century after the FA’s ban on women’s football in 1921.

It was Chelsea who once again emerged victorious, as opponents Arsenal came up against an inspired Kerr, who scored twice after Fran Kirby’s early opener to seal a comfortable victory.

1st November 2020: Everton 1-3 Manchester City (aet)

Played in front of no fans during the pandemic-affected 2020/21 campaign, Man City won their third FA Cup in four seasons with an extra-time victory over Everton, who were in the first final in six years.

The 50th Women’s FA Cup final saw Sam Mewis’ header put Gareth Taylor’s team in front, before Valerie Gauvin’s equaliser from a corner took the sides to extra time.

Georgia Stanway’s poked finish left City with one hand on the cup, and she laid the ball on a plate for Janine Beckie to finally put the game to bed and secure a second successive cup triumph.

Going into the final day, it is very much all to play for if you’re an Aston Villa supporter.

Last Friday night, the Villans beat Tottenham 2-0 at Villa Park, thanks to second-half goals from Ezri Konsa and then Boubacar Kamara.

This means, having won eight of their last nine Premier League games, Unai Emery’s team sit sixth, outside the coveted Champions League spots by virtue of goal difference.

Nevertheless, they could still gatecrash the top five with victory over Manchester United on Sunday, if just one of Chelsea fail to win at Nottingham Forest, Newcastle fail to beat Everton or Manchester City lose at Fulham comes to pass simultaneously.

Those bedecked in claret and blue heading to Old Trafford on Sunday will need their transistor radios at the ready, but could this turn out to be a final Villa appearance for one of the club’s most beloved figures?

The latest on Emi Martínez's Villa future

According to widespread reports, including from Mick Brown of Football Insider, goalkeeper Emi Martínez is expected to leave Aston Villa this summer.

Speaking on the Guardian Football Weekly podcast, Dan Bardell says “it looks like he’s going to go”, which he believes will be a “huge loss”, describing the Argentine World Cup winner as “irreplaceable”, while acknowledging that Villa have to sell a key player before 30 June to comply with Profitability and Sustainability Rules.

Numerous clubs are interested in his services.

Jacob Tanswell and Gregg Evans of the Athletic note Saudi Pro League ‘interest’, reports in Argentina note that Manchester United have ‘made an offer’, while Eduardo Burgos Rodríguez of AS claims that Atlético Madrid have begun ‘informal inquiries’.

Since arriving from Arsenal for £20m in 2020, Martínez has made 211 appearances for the Claret and Blue Army, becoming an undisputed fans’ favourite, also picking up back-to-back Yashin Trophies at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, being named the best goalkeeper in the world.

However, with the 32-year-old seemingly set to depart, could Villa actually recruit an upgrade?

Aston Villa's target to replace Martínez

According to a report by Birmingham Live, Aston Villa are ‘interested’ in signing Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García.

James McNicholas and David Ornstein of The Athletic document that Arsenal are also in the running to sign the 24-year-old Spaniard, who has a €25m (around £21m) release clause.

According to a report in Spain, this will plummet down to just £12.6m, if Blanquiazules are relegated on the final day of the La Liga season come Saturday evening.

How García could actually improve Aston Villa

Given this interest, could García actually be an upgrade on Martínez? Well, let’s assess the numbers to find out.

Emi Martínez vs Joan García 2024/25 comparison

Statistics

Martínez

García

Appearances

52

37

Minutes

4,590

3,330

Clean sheets

15

7

Goals conceded

61

51

Saves

146

136

Save %

71.6%

75%

Penalty saved %

33.3%

33.3%

Post-shot xG – goals conceded

+4

+7.1

Opposition crosses faced

605

655

% of crosses stopped

11.2%

9.3%

Pass completion %

79.3%

71.5%

Errors leading to an opposition shot

8

4

Average Sofascore Rating

7.25

7.37

Statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt, FBref.com and SofaScore

As the table outlines, Martínez and García’s statistics are broadly very similar this season, which is certainly impressive from the Spaniard’s point-of-view, considering his team are hovering just above the La Liga relegation zone.

García’s save percentage is impressive, but the statistic that stands out the most is his post-shot xG – goals allowed figure of +7.1, which means he ranks tenth across all of Europe’s top five leagues, or fourth if you remove Ligue 1 from the equation, behind only Nikola Vasilj (St. Pauli), Mile Svilar (Roma) and Finn Dahmen (Augsburg).

For context, Martínez is down in 104th when it comes to the same metric.

Analyst Ben Mattinson labels García “one of the highest potential goalkeepers in the world right now”, elsewhere praising his “cross claiming” and “composure on the ball”, assertions that are supported by the data.

Meantime, Sive Vishwa of Breaking the Lines backs him to become ‘one of the best goalkeepers’ of his generation, while Fintan O’Reilly of Total Football Analysis believes García has been the ‘all-round best performing young goalkeeper’ across Europe this season.

So, as much as Villa supporters adore Martínez, if they’re able to replace him with a highly-rated shot-stopper, who is six years his junior, for a bargain fee, from a business point of view, this does make sense doesn’t it?

Related Aston Villa in pole position after talks to sign "powerful" 18 y/o sensation

He’s a rising star.

Posts ByTom Cunningham May 22, 2025

Cole Palmer will go down as one of Chelsea’s best signings in the modern day, impressing beyond all imagination after his £40m move from fellow Premier League side Manchester City in 2023.

Not many people knew what to expect from the young attacker, but it’s safe to say he’s demonstrated his quality at the top level over the last couple of seasons.

The 22-year-old has registered 62 combined goals and assists in his 84 appearances for the Blues, with one of his best showings coming against Brighton earlier this campaign, notching four goals in the first 45 minutes.

Whilst the England international has gone 16 games without a goal, his early-season form has put Enzo Maresca’s side in a great position to secure Champions League football – highlighting how much of an impressive addition he’s been.

However, if he is to return to the heights he’s previously showcased, the hierarchy may look to delve into the market to strengthen the side in key areas of the pitch.

An update on Chelsea’s hunt for new additions this summer

There’s no denying that a striker has been at the top of Maresca’s shopping list since his appointment in the summer of 2024, but as of yet, he’s been unable to land the talisman he craves.

In recent days, Liam Delap has once again been mentioned as a possible target this summer, potentially linking back up with the Italian after their time together at the Etihad.

The 22-year-old has scored 12 times for relegation-threatened Ipswich Town this campaign, looking set to depart at the end of the season regardless, with his £30m relegation release clause in his contract.

However, despite their ambition to strengthen in forward areas, moves have also been made in the defensive area with a deal for Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, who currently has a £50m clause in his own deal.

According to one Spanish outlet, the Blues have made a huge financial offer to the player to convince him to move to Stamford Bridge – now leading the race for his signature this summer.

Why Huijsen would be Chelsea’s best signing since Palmer

There’s no denying that Palmer has been a sensational addition to the football club, undoubtedly now worth millions more than the figure forked out for his signature.

If they are to secure a place in the Champions League ahead of next season, Maresca will need his star player to recapture his best form in the coming weeks to help get the side over the line.

Regardless of the situation they find themselves in 2025/26, additions will be needed in key areas of the pitch, none more so than the backline, to bolster their chances of going one step further.

Huijsen could provide just that should he move to West London in the coming months, being the young star to lead the backline for many years to come – something which has been desperately needed in recent seasons.

At just 19, he has the potential to be a leading star for the club for at least the next decade, but his immediate impact could be one that could catapult the side to success next campaign.

When delving into his stats from 2024/25, he’s showcased how impressive he’s been for the Cherries, undoubtedly being the key player and one of the missing pieces in Maresca’s puzzle.

Huijsen, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one analyst, has won 70% of the tackles he’s entered, along with 2.7 aerials won per 90 – highlighting his ability in defensive areas, something which the side have lacked given their tally of 40 goals conceded.

Dean Huijsen’s PL stats for Bournemouth (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)	Tally
Games played	27
Goals & assists	3
Pass accuracy	85%
Tackles won	70%
Aerials won	2.7
Long balls completed	4.9
Interceptions made	2.2
Stats via FotMob

He’s also starred in possession, completing 85% of the passes he’s attempted, whilst also completing 4.9 long balls per 90, potentially handing Palmer the opportunity to recapture his best form.

Such impressive young talents like the Spaniard don’t come around very often, with the hierarchy needing to work tirelessly if they are to secure his signature.

Any move for him would massively bolster the backline, potentially being one of the most important additions they can make this summer to give themselves the platform to succeed in 2025/26.

He can revive Palmer: Chelsea ready move for "the best player in the world"

Chelsea could look to revive Cole Palmer’s form by making a big-money signing.

By
Connor Holden

Apr 25, 2025

Enzo Maresca’s Blues started the season in red-hot form, dispatching teams and finding themselves second in the Premier League just before Christmas.

However, since then, Chelsea have struggled, dropping points to bottom-half sides and now finding themselves sixth and on the fringes of Champions League qualification.

Cole Palmer has struggled for form in recent months, playing in the middle of the park behind the striker, often dropping deep to receive the ball and aid Chelsea’s progression through the lines.

Whilst his goal-scoring numbers have dropped off, his creativity remains effective, having the joint highest xA (expected assists) in the Premier League this season with 7.9 xA.

With six games to go, it remains in the balance whether the Blues can obtain a precious top five spot, securing Champions League football for next season, in their ability to do so may well impact their ability to sign players this upcoming summer.

Chelsea favourites to sign Bundesliga sensation

According to reports from CaughtOffside, Chelsea are now leading the race and are favourites to sign Borussia Dortmund superstar, Jamie Gittens this summer.

Other Premier League clubs such as Liverpool have shown interest and scouted the 20-year-old winger, but it looks like the Blues may be ahead in the race.

With Jadon Sancho’s future currently in question, the Blues could opt to send the winger back to Manchester United, freeing up funds to acquire Gittens – who has been touted at around £85m – from Dortmund and reinvent the left side of their attacking unit.

Gittens has made 44 appearances for the German outfit this campaign, netting 12 goals, providing five assists and totalling 2,648 minutes played. The English winger came through Manchester City’s academy, much like another one of Chelsea’s superstars.

Gittens vs Palmer comparison

Palmer was, of course, signed from Manchester City back in 2023, joining the Blues for a fee of around £40m plus £2.5m in add-ons. That signing has proven to be well worth the investment made, with the 22-year-old already making 82 appearances for Chelsea, scoring 39 goals and providing 24 assists in 6,575 minutes played.

Jamie Gittens vs Cole Palmer comparison
Stats (per 90 mins)	Gittens	Palmer
Goals	0.41	0.41
Assists	0.10	0.24
xG	0.19	0.54
xAG	0.13	0.31
Progressive Carries	5.58	3.25
Progressive Passes	2.07	6.24
Shots Total	2.56	3.65
Goals/Shot	0.16	0.09
Key Passes	1.09	2.54
Shot-Creating Actions	3.66	5.93
Successful Take-Ons	3.73	1.46
Carries into Pen Area	3.08	1.15
Stats taken from FBref

When comparing the underlying metrics of both young England stars, you can see how each of their games differ. Gittens clearly excels at carrying, looking to be direct with the ball at his feet, beating players 1v1 and attacking the box. Meanwhile, Palmer looks to express himself through creative passing, creating for himself and others, whilst also not being afraid to pull the trigger.

The 20-year-old has already been described as the “next English diamond” by Saul Morris, via Football Talent Scout, back in 2023. Since then, we have seen Gittens go on to produce some excellent form with Borussia Dortmund, thus earning him recognition from clubs back in England.

If Gittens does join Chelsea, the ex-Manchester City academy duo could be a lethal combination in attack, with Palmer dropping deep and finding those incisive passes in behind opposition defences, allowing Gittens to attack the box and get those shots off.

All the signs then point to this exciting deal proving to be the Blues’ best since snapping up Palmer in 2023.

Shades of Hazard: Chelsea plotting move to sign £39m-rated "entertainer"

Chelsea are looking to add to their depth in attack

By
Joe Nuttall

Apr 16, 2025

No Healy, no Gardner but it’s no problem for Australia, who retained the Ashes in style

Andrew McGlashan20-Jan-2025Losing two key players in the hours leading up to a match, one of which is the captain, would be enough to unsettle a lot of teams, but Australia barely put a foot wrong in an emphatic performance at the SCG that retained the Ashes.It’s not job done yet for the home side, with memories of the 2023 drawn series still lingering, but it was a notable display of composure and depth.”That was a pretty special win after some great performances in the ODIs,” Beth Mooney, who made 75 off 51 balls, said. “There’s a lot of excitement within the group to do it in that fashion.”Related

Healy in doubt for rest of Ashes series as she misses first T20I

Mooney and King help clinical Australia retain Ashes

A couple of hours before the start confirmation came through that Alyssa Healy was out of the match and her prognosis for the rest of the series does not sound encouraging. Then, when the team sheet dropped, Ashleigh Gardner, who made her maiden international hundred three days ago in Hobart, was missing due to a calf strain. That was suddenly a lot of runs, wickets and experience missing.”It’s happened a little bit to us in recent times,” Mooney said.” So I think we’re a well-oiled machine when this happens. These things come up a little bit in high-performance sports. Thankfully we’ve got great support staff and a great group of players that put our arms around each other.”Rather than being knocked out of kilter, Australia came racing out of the blocks. Georgia Voll, making her T20I debut, cracked her fourth ball for four and then added three in a row against Charlie Dean in the third over. She was lbw without adding another run, but the tone was set. At times, England’s fielding fell to pieces under the pressure.Mooney led the way as a senior player with an expertly-paced innings, dispatching some wayward lines from the England bowlers but also drawing them into errors by her use of the crease. Phoebe Litchfield, elevated to No. 3, unfurled a magnificent switch-hit for six and stand-in captain Tahlia McGrath continued her batting revival with 26 off just 9 balls.

“This group’s hungry to keep getting better and I think the really important thing is that we’ve got the personnel that can keep pushing the boundaries”Beth Mooney

In the field, Kim Garth, playing her first T20I for a year, struck with her opening ball before coming in for punishment from Sophia Dunkley with 22 runs taken from her second over. But just as there was a modicum of pressure on Australia, Alana King, in her first T20I since the 2023 World Cup, bowled Nat Sciver-Brunt first ball and produced a maiden in the fifth over.Still, when England reached the 10-over mark at 96 for 3 with Dunkley having made a 24-ball fifty they had an outside chance. King then pinned Heather Knight lbw straight after drinks and that was about that.”Whilst it’s disappointing, obviously for Ash and Midge [Healy] tonight, I thought Georgia Voll played exceptionally well at the top of the order,” Mooney said. “Kim Garth hasn’t played a T20 for a little while and took [a wicket] early in the game. And obviously Alana King was back in the T20 side. So it probably was a great showcase of our depth in the end.”King is having a huge impact on this Ashes with 13 wickets now in four matches. “At the moment, it just looks like she’s going to take a wicket every ball,” Mooney said. She wants to take the game on. Those are the players that you want in your team. You throw them a ball in that situation. That fifth over…probably changed the momentum of the game pretty significantly in our favour.”It was a significant evening, too, for stand-in captain McGrath. She led in the three ODIs against India last December, but this was Australia’s first T20I since their World Cup exit to South Africa when McGrath was also standing in for the injured Healy.Amid the batting riches in Australian cricket there had started to be some speculation about McGrath’s place but her innings here followed the 38-ball half-century in the last ODI. She then claimed the wicket of Dunkley that removed any lingering potential threat to Australia.”It was really nice to see T-Mac at the other end have that partnership with me and score runs as freely as she did,” Mooney said. “I think she’s unlocked her game again.”Mooney added that Australia would enjoy the SCG victory, knowing that the Ashes are safely in their grasp again, but focus will quickly turn to Canberra where they can be won. “Hopefully, the conversation in the dressing room is we’ve got a play on Thursday like we’re on no points and that’s the start of the series,” she said. “This group’s hungry to keep getting better and I think the really important thing is that we’ve got the personnel that can keep pushing the boundaries.”Talk of 16-0 whitewash, though, was off limits – for now. “Let’s just get it to 10-0 and we’ll talk about that again,” Mooney said.On current form, few would bet against them having a chance to go for it.

Run machines – check. Pace-bowling depth – check. A gamechanger and an all-round star – check. It was a summer of plenty for Australia

Andrew McGlashan08-Jan-2023Warner, Khawaja, Labuschagne and Smith cash inEither side of a two-day Test at the Gabba, it was a summer of runs for Australia’s top order.The first innings in Brisbane was the only time they were bowled out and, for the first time, everyone from No. 1 to No. 5 made a score of at least 175. If Usman Khawaja had been able to get his 200 at the SCG it would have been just the second time four batters had scored a double in a season after England in 2011.Whether David Warner’s MCG double is the prelude to a glorious finish to his career remains to be seen – he will have to overcome poor records in India and England – but in Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne and Steven Smith they have three run machines. However, whether we see this top order together in a home Test again is uncertain. Warner may view the Ashes as an end-point and while Smith backed away from retirement talk it is certainly an ageing, though prolific, top order.Related

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Travis Head – a gamechanger at homeThe absence of one name above was not an oversight – Travis Head warrants a discussion of his own.After his pair of stunning Ashes hundreds last season, which earned him the Player-of-the-Series award, he has gone on to have another dominant home season. It says something that even with 99 and 175 against West Indies (chopping on against Kraigg Brathwaite and being run out), he felt he left a few out there. However, his best innings came on the devilish pitch at the Gabba where his 92 off 96 balls stood way above anything else produced in the game.His game-changing ability is certainly not a flash in the pan. Next for him, though, is turning around a poor record in the subcontinent. If he maintains the same attacking approach, it certainly won’t be dull to watch.Green will continue to be one of Australia’s most fascinating project players•Getty ImagesThe Cameron Green projectIt wasn’t exactly an unexpected conclusion, but the discussions that went into the balance of the Australia side in Sydney – and the eventual combination they settled on – just emphasised the vital role Green has in the Test side. It had been a curious home season for Green, who, until Melbourne, suffered from a lack of cricket having been involved in the white-ball sides. A maiden five-wicket haul felt like a breakout moment and then his gusty half-century with a broken finger was more worthy than its overall impact on the result. Green will continue to be one of Australia’s most fascinating projects over the next few years as he learns to balance workloads and other demands now that the IPL has come calling with their mega millions.Pace-bowling depthIt felt strong at the end of the last season. If anything, it feels even stronger now. Australia’s attack was once again able to seamlessly manage the loss of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood for the Adelaide Test with the return of Scott Boland and Michael Neser. Hazlewood, meanwhile, reminded everyone of his excellence at the SCG and Lance Morris, capable of 150kph, is now firmly in the mix. Sean Abbott and Mark Steketee remain high-quality domestic performers who may never get their chance but would not look out of their depth. An interesting one is Jhye Richardson, who was bowling superbly in the BBL before another untimely injury. If his body can stand up to the strain he may yet be a tempting option for the Ashes in England.Pat Cummins has been on his game on and off the field•Cricket Australia/Getty ImagesCummins ignores the noiseEarlier in the season, Cummins gave the impression, quite rightly, of not being the slightest bit bothered by some of the nonsense reactions to his very measured stance on a few of today’s big issues that stretch beyond the cricket field. Given what the opposition served up in the five Tests, this was not the most tactically challenging pair of series for him, but he did not make many mis-steps. Bowling first in consecutive Tests was out of the usual playbook; Brisbane may not have taken much thought, but the decision in Melbourne was a trickier one and it worked out perfectly, albeit with some help from South Africa, when it meant Australia weren’t bowling on the sweltering second day. Like the team as a whole, his tenure as captain will be defined by the next seven months.What about Marcus Harris?There was the briefest of glimpses of what’s next in the Australian batting line-up with Matt Renshaw being recalled in Sydney, although in the end he was limited to 11 balls. Peter Handscomb’s addition to the squad was also an indication that he will likely go to India.Spare a thought, therefore, for Marcus Harris. He travelled around throughout the season before being released back to the BBL midway through the SCG Test. If Renshaw had been subbed out with Covid, it’s unlikely he would have been the replacement. He will hope, that when an opening vacancy does occur, perhaps next summer, he remains the next in line. More broadly, though, the tag of next-big-thing in the batting remains up for grabs.

Ravi Bopara forms part of favourites’ power-packed batting line-up

Matt Roller26-Aug-2020

Essex

Last year: 4th in South Group, winners
Captain: Simon Harmer
Coach: Anthony McGrath
In a nutshell: Snuck up on the blindside to win their maiden title last year after two wins in their first ten scheduled games, with skipper Harmer the star on Finals Day and Ravi Bopara – in his last season at the club – shining as a finisher despite his frustrations about his role. Bopara will be a big miss this year, but they still have the tools to make hay at Chelmsford.Star: While not an official overseas player thanks to his UK ancestry visa, Cameron Delport brings a wealth of franchise experience at the top of the order. His innings against Surrey – 129 off 49 balls – was the most remarkable of last year’s Blast, and his ability to score quickly and consistently against both spin and pace makes him key.One to watch: Dan Lawrence was due a breakout summer but circumstances have transpired against him and he is yet to make the England debut that seemed inevitable. He is a star in T20, playing in “ultra-aggressive” fashion and striking at 163 against spinners over the last three years.Verdict: Too reliant on batting to repeat last year’s success, but quarters on the cards
Bet365: 8/1

Hampshire

Last year: 7th in South Group
Captain: James Vince/Sam Northeast
Coach: Adi Birrell
In a nutshell: Would have reached knockouts with victory against winless Glamorgan in final group game last year but somehow let Essex sneak through instead. Significantly weakened due to injury and unavailability this season: Liam Dawson is out for the season and Aneurin Donald is unlikely to feature; James Vince’s wife is expecting her second child; Kyle Abbott, Fidel Edwards and Rilee Rossouw are stuck overseas. Discussions are ongoing with Shaheen Afridi about the possibility of staying on after Pakistan’s England tour, who would be a trump card if available.Mason Crane sets off on a celebratory run•Getty ImagesStar: After missing the 2018 tournament through injury, Mason Crane returned to T20 cricket with 11 wickets and an economy rate of 7.03 last season. With the Ageas Bowl generally spin-friendly and Hampshire playing five of their last six group games at home, he will be particularly crucial in the second half of the tournament.One to watch: Scotland opener George Munsey is one of the top short-form batsmen in the associate world, and is a smart pick-up given his ability against spin, against which he strikes at 169 since 2018. Watch out in particular for his signature switch-hits and strong wrists, with clear evidence of his days playing hockey in his youth.Verdict: Missing too many stars to have any real hope of reaching knockouts
Bet365: 10/1

Kent

Last year: 5th in South Group
Captain: Sam Billings
Coach: Matt Walker
In a nutshell: Somehow screwed up qualifications after six wins from first seven fixtures last summer, with three batting implosions in run chases and two abandonments in the final five leaving them a point short of Essex. Likely to be hampered by England call-ups for Billings and Joe Denly, but plenty of talent regardless.Alex Blake of Kent bats•Getty ImagesStar: It has been a frustrating summer for Alex Blake – known affectionately as ‘the Blake-cano’ for his ability to erupt at the back end of an innings – after his decision to sign a white-ball contract has left him twiddling his thumbs. Faded after a bright start last year, but his finishing abilities will still be crucial.One to watch: Left-arm spinner Imran Qayyum was vital last year, plugging away in the middle overs to finish with an economy rate of 7.50 and 12 wickets to his name. In an attack significantly weakened by the absences of Hardus Viljoen, Mohammad Nabi and Adam Milne, he will be the linchpin.Verdict: Attack lacks bite but quarter-finals not beyond them
Bet365: 14/1

Middlesex

Last year: 3rd in South Group, quarter-finalists
Captain: Eoin Morgan/Steven Finn
Coach: Stuart Law
In a nutshell: Reached knockouts for only the second time since their 2008 title last year, but three of the top five run-scorers last year – Dawid Malan, AB de Villiers and Paul Stirling – will play no part and new captain Morgan looks unlikely to feature between England duty and the start of the IPL. Core bowlers remain but homegrown batsmen need to step up.Nathan Sowter lets rip in celebration•Getty ImagesStar: Nathan Sowter, the legspinner who is now England-qualified, had a strong tournament last year with 16 wickets, and will be the primary spin option this season in Mujeeb Ur Rahman’s absence. The main question is whether he can work out a method against left-handers, having leaked 11.10 runs per over against them over the last two seasons.One to watch: Nick Gubbins only played three Blast games last season and has a mediocre T20 record, but has shown his white-ball potential in List A cricket and was joint player of the tournament in Australia’s National Premier T20 Championships over the winter. He should get a run of games in the top three.Verdict: Absence of batting stars will be their undoing
Bet365: 10/1

Surrey

Last year: 8th in South Group
Captain: Jade Dernbach/Gareth Batty
Coach: Vikram Solanki
In a nutshell: Second-bottom last year but only three points off third, and there are reasons to be optimistic despite absence of several England players. Rory Burns and Ben Foakes are useful middle-order rotators, while Sam Curran should be available for at least the first handful of games and Reece Topley – a reserve for the Pakistan T20Is – could come into the picture for the second half. The loan signing of Laurie Evans is a major boost.Liam Plunkett takes a drinks break•Getty ImagesStar: Will Jacks was expected to have a breakout Blast in 2019 – not least after his 25-ball hundred in a pre-season T10 game against Lancashire – but didn’t quite deliver, his 152 strike rate tempered by an average of 20.92. He is highly rated by England, and was named in their 55-man training group at the start of the summer after impressing on the Lions tour to Australia.One to watch: After his unceremonious axing by England, Liam Plunkett has a point to prove. He played only twice in the Blast last year due to injury and struggled in the Bangladesh Premier League, but impressed in the Abu Dhabi T10 and will hope that a strong tournament can be the springboard to further stints on the global short-form circuit.Verdict: In an open group, quarter finals look like a real possibility
Bet365: 11/1

Sussex

Last year: 1st in South Group, quarter-finalists
Captain: Luke Wright
Coach: Jason Gillespie
In a nutshell: Topped the nine-team South Group last year thanks to an all-star bowling attack, and the strongest team on paper by some margin in this season’s six-team version despite Jofra Archer and Chris Jordan’s likely absences. International quality throughout their batting line-up, and Gillespie will be desperate to sign off with some silverware.Delray Rawlins in full flow in the Blast quarter-final•Getty ImagesStar: Tymal Mills will lead the attack and carry much of the wicket-taking burden, with death-bowling duties likely to fall on his shoulders. With experienced spinners Danny Briggs and Will Beer set to operate in tandem in the middle, he will be required as a top-and-tail option. Fixtures come thick and fast, so it may be sensible to rest him a handful of group games.One to watch: Sussex’s likely top six is filled with stars: Wright and Phil Salt will open, with David Wiese and Bopara playing as finishers. But they have a gem at No. 4 in Delray Rawlins, the Bermudan left-hander, who has struck at 155 against spin in his Blast career and has licence to free his arms rather than just ticking over. There is extra pressure to step up after Evans’ loan move to Surrey.Verdict: Anything short of a Finals Day appearance should be considered a failure
Bet365: 9/1

New Zealand allrounder Zak Foulkes has had a whirlwind few months. The 23-year-old bagged 9 for 75, the best figures by a New Zealand bowler on Test debut, in Bulawayo in August and then in his first ODI bowling innings, made Joe Root look silly with his inswinger in Mount Maunganui in October. He is set to close out the year with his first Test, against West Indies, at Hagley Oval, his home ground for Canterbury in domestic cricket.Foulkes’ family has made plans to come down to Hagley Oval and savour the occasion. “Yeah, a few friends and family coming down tomorrow, which will be cool,” Foulkes said. “Yeah, obviously first Test match out in front of them, which will be really cool. A really special moment for me and my family.”Obviously watched a lot of Test cricket out on this venue. Yeah, being on the other side of the road this time would be very cool, very rewarding.”Related

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Foulkes hails from a cricketing family – his father Glen and his brothers Liam and Robbie have all represented Canterbury Country. Robbie, a top-order batter, also played for New Zealand in the 2024 Under-19 World Cup in South Africa. Liam now works for Cricket Ireland as their national game development manager.Zak was also a top-order batter before bowling, more specifically swing bowling, became his primary skill. He opened the batting for Canterbury on first-class debut, but that didn’t go down too well. He has since climbed up the ranks in domestic cricket and emerged as a genuine swing bowler in international cricket.”There’s a running joke at the moment that Jacob Duffy is actually developing a wee inswing,” Foulkes laughed. “So yeah, just trying to tell him to stay in his lane a little bit. Yeah, definitely a little bit of a point of difference between the other guys [with my ability to swing the ball].”That swing has brought him success for Canterbury at Hagley Oval and he’s now preparing to harness it for New Zealand in Test cricket. “I think Test cricket is probably my No. 1 goal,” Foulkes said. “It has been for a while. I think there’s just nothing more rewarding than a red-ball win. All the toil, all the hard work that goes into it. Yeah, it’s very rewarding when you get a win.””Obviously when everyone is available there’s not too many spots up for grabs,” Zak Foulkes says of the future•Getty Images

No Kyle Jamieson. No Will O’Rourke. No Ben Sears. No Matt Fisher. No problem for New Zealand. Foulkes and Duffy, who also made his Test debut in Zimbabwe, have made a fairly seamless transition from domestic to international cricket while Central Districts fast bowler Blair Tickner has made a remarkable comeback after being out in the wilderness.”Yeah, I think we’re in a great space,” Foulkes said. “Obviously when everyone is available there’s not too many spots up for grabs. It sort of fits itself, almost. Yeah, but I guess being fast bowlers, we know there’s going to be injuries. So we have to build that depth and I think we’re in a good spot at the moment as New Zealand cricket.”Does the rise to the top feel like a blur for Foulkes? “It’s all happened pretty quickly really,” he said. “I had a big winter, had a few A tours and ended up in the UK. And then Zimbabwe obviously, where I debuted, which was cool. And then we’ve been on a little bit of a white-ball diet from then. Yeah, it’s now going to be nice to strap on the whites and bowl with the red ball for a change.”Foulkes suggested that he wasn’t expecting to play this home Test, but a surfeit of injuries has opened up another opportunity for him. He’s ready for it, with support from a cricket-mad family.

Rafa Silva has backed down from his intention to leave Besiktas and returned to training after the Turkish club threatened to report him to FIFA for unauthorised absence. The Portuguese forward, who had been complaining of pain despite clean medical scans, cited "family problems" rather than financial issues as the reason for his actions, admitting his "head was a mess".

Rafa Silva returns to Besiktas training after FIFA threat

The crisis between Portuguese forward Rafa Silva and Besiktas appears to have reached a resolution, with the player returning to individual training this week. According to a report from , Silva had been absent from training and matches, complaining of physical pain despite medical examinations, including an MRI scan, showing no underlying issues. The player had even suggested he wanted to retire with immediate effect in order to break ties with the club.

The situation escalated when Besiktas took decisive action in response to Silva's continued absence. The club's management officially registered his unauthorised absence with a notary last Thursday. Furthermore, club officials contacted Silva's agent, warning that they would file a formal complaint with FIFA if the player's refusal to train and play continued.

This firm stance from Besiktas appears to have prompted Silva to reconsider his position. Facing potential legal repercussions and with no contractual breaches by the club to justify his actions, the 32-year-old forward met with members of Besiktas' football committee to communicate his decision to return.

AdvertisementGetty Images Sport'The problem isn't money,' insists Rafa Silva

In his discussions with the club's management, Rafa Silva was keen to clarify the reasons behind his recent behaviour, insisting that financial motivations were not the driving force. He emphasised that he had no issues with the club's board or head coach, Sergen Yalcın.

"The problem isn't money. If it were, I would have gone to the Arab countries. I have family problems," Silva explained. He went on to reveal a long-standing desire to leave the club and return to his homeland. "In truth, I wanted to leave at the end of last season. My only wish was to return to my country, but I didn't get a positive response from the management. I was demoralised and very sad. My head was a mess."

Rafa Silva commits to Besiktas for now

Following his period of reflection and the pressure from the club, Silva has committed to fulfilling his professional obligations for the immediate future. He has already begun individual training and is expected to rejoin the team's collective sessions starting this Wednesday.

"After recent events, I've reflected again. I want this problem resolved. I'll be back playing and training," Silva stated. However, he also hinted that his long-term future at the club remains uncertain beyond the upcoming transfer window. "I don't know what will happen during the winter break, but as long as I'm given the opportunity, I'll do my best for the team."

Besiktas management reportedly received Silva's words with satisfaction, welcoming his decision to return to the fold. The experienced Portuguese forward, who joined the club in the summer of 2024 after eight seasons at Benfica, has made 16 appearances this season, scoring five goals and providing three assists.

Despite Silva's return, the underlying tension and his stated desire to leave have led Besiktas to continue their search for a potential replacement in the upcoming January transfer window. The club's management had accelerated transfer activities when Silva was absent and expressing his wish to depart.

According to Polish journalist Lukasz Olkowicz, Besiktas are showing strong interest in Patrik Hellebrand, a Czech midfielder currently playing for Gornik Zabrze in the Polish League. Reports suggest the possibility of this transfer is high, with Gornik Zabrze open to selling the player. Hellebrand has recorded three goals and one assist in 17 appearances this season.

Meanwhile, Besiktas president Serdal Adali has reportedly taken a firm stance regarding any potential move for Silva within Turkey, emphasizing that he would never allow the Portuguese forward to play for another Turkish club.

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Beşiktaş TwitterWhat next for Rafa Silva and Besiktas?

Silva's immediate focus will be on reintegrating with the Besiktas squad and regaining his match fitness. His return to collective training on Wednesday will be the first step. The player will need to demonstrate his commitment on the pitch to win back the trust of head coach Yalcin, who has maintained that team selection is based solely on training performance.

For Besiktas, the upcoming weeks will be crucial in managing the situation. While Silva has returned, his long-term future remains uncertain, and the club's pursuit of a potential replacement like Hellebrand suggests they are preparing for his possible departure in the winter transfer window. The team faces upcoming league fixtures where Silva's availability and performance will be closely monitored.

The black-soil surface in Delhi will have patches of grass, interspersed with bald areas, and is expected to help spinners later on

Nagraj Gollapudi07-Oct-2025The pitch for the second and final India-West Indies Test, which starts on October 10 in Delhi, will have patches of grass interspersed with bald areas, unlike the Ahmedabad pitch for the first Test that had an even grass covering.The Delhi pitch will have a black-soil base and is likely to favour batters, with spin playing a role as the surface dries up gradually.West Indies lost the first Test inside three days after electing to bat on one of the greenest pitches in India since the World Test Championship was launched in 2019. With four millimetres of live grass covering spread over a red-soil pitch coupled with good bounce, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj gleefully went about their job on the first morning as West Indies were all out in 44.1 overs. The visitors lasted just 45.1 overs in their second innings, suffering a bruising defeat by an innings and 140 runs.The pitch at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, though, is understood to be more batting-friendly, coupled with a quick outfield and slightly shorter boundaries. The last Test played here was the second of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2023. In that game, Australia, having elected to bat on a slow turner, lost by six wickets, inside three days.