The Spin | Going for gold? Why China’s female cricketers may benefit … — and more

The Cricket Research Network was told how the sport is perceived in China and why the women’s side is seen as the national team

The Cambridge wind had a February chill, and the trees at Fenner’s were still without any spring decoration, but the old bleachers to the side and the pavilion, largely unchanged since the 1980s, were reminders of a new season just a turn of the calendar away.

Fenner’s cricket ground sits next door to Hughes Hall, where the Cricket Research Network held their third annual conference last week. The organisation, headed by Raf Nicholson, sometimes of this parish, is a place for cricket academics to exchange ideas, and the conference a chance for rest of us to put an ear to the door of data and detail.

Formula 1 has extended its broadcasting agreement with Kayo Sports in Australia through 2027 and beyond, disappointing fans who had hoped for Apple TV or more affordable options. The extension comes just before this weekend's Australian Grand Prix, which will continue to be shown free on Network 10.

Australian fans have expressed frustration on social media, with many calling Kayo's pricing "prohibitively expensive" and wishing for Apple TV to secure the rights instead. Kayo added an F1TV commentary option last season after some fans accused Sky Sports' commentary team of showing bias toward British driver Lando Norris.

• Medvedev and Rublev both miss pre-event exhibition

• Challenger event in Dubai cancelled over security alert

The Russian tennis players Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev did not arrive at Indian Wells in time to participate in Tuesday night’s southern California exhibition event after they were among those affected by travel disruptions caused by the war in Iran.

The US and Israel launched airstrikes on Iran over the weekend and the conflict has led to airspace closures and widespread flight cancellations across parts of the Gulf, disrupting a key transit hub.

• Clubs in favour say squads of 28 would reduce injury risk

• Critics fear move would deepen hoarding of top talent

Elite clubs are lobbying Uefa to expand the size of Champions League squads to 28, arguing it would reduce the risk of injuries. The calls have come at the highest level of the European game and prompted fears that it would deepen the hoarding of top talent.

At a meeting of Uefa’s club competitions committee (CCC) last month, clubs argued that the cap of 25 players should be increased. It is not a view shared by all 16 clubs represented on the CCC, with some strongly against expansion.

Barcelona Monitoring Tottenham Defender as Transfer Plans Take Shape

Barcelona’s recruitment strategy continues to develop quietly behind the scenes as the club prepares for the next phase of its sporting project. Despite uncertainty around the upcoming presidential elections, internal planning remains active, with the sporting department continuing its assessment of potential reinforcements.

One area of particular focus is central defence. According to Sport, Barcelona scouts have intensified their monitoring of Micky van de Ven, the Tottenham Hotspur defender who has emerged as a notable option for the Catalan side.

The report explains: “Barcelona scouts have intensified their monitoring of one of the Premier League’s top left sided defenders.”

Barcelona Transfer Strategy Continues Despite Election Uncertainty

Barcelona’s internal planning has continued even with the club’s presidential election approaching. Final decisions are expected only after the new leadership structure is confirmed, yet groundwork for future transfers is already in motion.

As reported, “Barcelona’s planning has not stopped because of the presidential elections, although final decisions will not be taken until the winner of the vote is known.”

Sport indicate that the sporting department, working closely with Hansi Flick, has identified two clear priorities for the upcoming squad rebuild.

“The sporting department, aligned with Hansi Flick, continue preparing the new project with two clear objectives, signing a centre forward and bringing in a top level left footed central defender.”

One long standing target remains Alessandro Bastoni of Inter Milan. However, the financial complexity of that move means Barcelona are exploring other viable options.

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“One of the objectives is Alessandro Bastoni, although the operation is complicated due to the price and Inter’s reluctance to allow him to leave.”

Tottenham Defender Emerging as Realistic Option

Van de Ven has been on Barcelona’s radar for several months, with Sport previously outlining the club’s interest in the Netherlands international.

“Van de Ven has been on Barcelona’s agenda for months, as Sport reported several weeks ago.”

The defender is viewed internally as a profile that fits the type of centre back Barcelona are looking to recruit, though Bastoni remains the preferred choice.

“His profile appeals to the sporting department and fits the type of defender being sought, although Bastoni remains the priority.”

There is also speculation surrounding the player’s current situation in North London.

“The sporting situation of the Dutchman at Tottenham, heavily questioned by his own supporters and the environment around the London club, suggests an early exit could occur in the coming months.”

The report also suggests that Van de Ven may be open to a new challenge.

“The player does not wish to remain in a team in clear crisis and would even prioritise Barcelona’s interest above that of other clubs.”

Transfer Competition and Financial Reality

Van de Ven’s growing reputation means Barcelona are not alone in monitoring his situation. Within the Premier League, Liverpool FC have also shown interest.

“In the Premier League, Liverpool have shown interest in signing him, although Barcelona believe they would have priority if they decide to move forward.”

Barcelona’s recruitment team reportedly value the defender’s character and ability to progress the ball from defence.

“At Barcelona they appreciate Van de Ven’s personality and his strong vision of the game.”

His versatility adds to that appeal.

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“He can play as a left sided central defender and occasionally as a left back, and at 24 years of age he is at the perfect stage to make the leap to a major club.”

Van de Ven joined Tottenham from VfL Wolfsburg in 2023 for around €40 million and has since become a regular for the Netherlands national team.

“Now unquestioned with the Dutch national team, Van de Ven arrived at Tottenham from Wolfsburg in 2023 for around €40 million.”

Barcelona are aware that any deal would require a significant investment, with the defender currently valued at around €65 million.

“A defender with a current valuation of €65 million, although he could leave for slightly less.”

Sport also note that Barcelona’s coaching staff have examined certain aspects of his game closely.

“The main sporting doubt among Barcelona’s technical staff concerns the defender’s speed in some game situations.”

Those concerns relate to performances in certain Premier League matches this season, which have prompted further analysis by Barcelona’s recruitment team.

Even so, the report concludes that Van de Ven is now firmly among the club’s shortlist of defensive targets.

“The profile that fits best is Bastoni, but Van de Ven is gaining ground and is on the final list of options to reinforce the position.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

The Dutch defender has been one of the brighter defensive talents to emerge at Spurs in recent seasons. His pace, confidence in possession and ability to recover ground have been crucial in the Premier League, where defensive margins are extremely small.

Many Spurs fans would question the suggestion that he has been widely criticised by supporters. While Tottenham’s overall performances have attracted scrutiny, Van de Ven is often viewed as one of the players capable of anchoring the club’s long term defensive rebuild.

If Barcelona were to pursue him seriously, Spurs would face a difficult decision. A valuation around €65 million represents significant financial power, especially for a club potentially seeking funds to reshape its squad.

Supporters would likely argue that Tottenham must resist selling unless the offer becomes impossible to ignore. Allowing one of the team’s most promising defenders to leave could weaken an already fragile defensive structure.

Interest from Barcelona underlines Van de Ven’s growing reputation across Europe.

For Spurs fans, the hope will be that recognition leads to long term commitment rather than a transfer battle in the summer window.