Newcastle United are the most advanced party in the race for a "world class" Serie A player this summer, according to Italian journalist Eleonora Trotta.
Newcastle transfer news
The Magpies have been linked with plenty of players since the January transfer window closed, as they look to strengthen their squad at the end of the season following a quiet winter window.
Barcelona defender Jules Kounde is one individual who has emerged as a possible target for Newcastle, as Eddie Howe contemplates adding to a back-line that has a number of ageing players, including Kieran Trippier, Fabian Schar and Dan Burn. The France international is capable of thriving at centre-back and right-back.
A move for Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Exequiel Palacios has also been mooted, and Adrien Rabiot is also reportedly being looked at as an option in the middle of the park, with the Frenchman out of contract at Juventus this summer.
Everton youngster James Garner is also thought to be a target for Newcastle ahead of the summer window, and the former Manchester United ace is admired by Roy Keane, which is no mean feat.
In terms of a more attacking option, Emile Smith Rowe is seen as an alternative to Aston Villa star Jacob Ramsey, with the former struggling to nail down a regular starting berth for Arsenal this season, and potentially eyeing a new challenge.
Federico Chiesa transfer update
Speaking to TV Play [via Sport Witness] Trotta claimed that Newcastle are the top option for Chiesa alongside Bayern Munich, should the Italian decide to leave Juventus.
Chiesa could be a fantastic signing by Newcastle this summer, possessing so much pedigree when it comes to being an elite wide player in the modern game. The winger was superb at Euro 2020, winning the competition with Italy and scoring twice, while Alessandro Pierini has sung his praises: "He’s world- lass. He has all the ability and desire of a great player. If he improves then he’ll be even better than his father [Enrico]. I have loads of respect for Enrico and all he has done to help Federico come on as a player until now.”
Newcastle back in for "aggressive" defender ahead of summer transfer
The Magpies could finally get their man.
ByTom Cunningham Feb 23, 2024
At 26, Chiesa is in and around the peak of his powers, and that shouldn't change for the foreseeable future, and he could add so much firepower to Newcastle's attack, having racked up 50 goal contributions (28 goals and 22 assists) in 115 appearances for Juve.
Dor de cabeça de outros tempos do Flamengo, a fragilidade defensiva voltou a ser motivo de preocupação no clube na semana de preparação para a estreia na Libertadores, na próxima terça-feira, contra o Vélez Sarsfield, na Argentina. O time de Rogério Ceni soma oito gols sofridos nos cinco jogos que disputou desde que passou a atuar com o grupo principal nesta temporada. Para a próxima partida, o técnico ainda tem o desfalque de Rodrigo Caio, suspenso.
A expectativa era de que os últimos jogos servissem como confirmação para o substituto, mas tanto Bruno Viana – na derrota para o Vasco ao lado dos titulares – quanto Gustavo Henrique – no empate com a Portuguesa, com uma equipe sem os principais nomes – não foram bem, e Ceni segue em dúvida.
-Nós estamos estudando. Hoje teve o Gustavo, no jogo passado o Bruno Viana jogou. Rodrigo infelizmente está fora independentemente do que aconteceu hoje, ele não poderia jogar terça-feira. Por isso fizemos a experiência com um em cada jogo para tomar a decisão na segunda-feira e ter uma noção do que a gente vai colocar em campo – afirmou o treinador após o jogo deste sábado.
> Confira a tabela e a classificação completa do Campeonato Carioca!
RelacionadasFlamengoCeni revela desconforto de Rodrigo Caio e projeta estreia do Flamengo na Liberta: ‘Faremos um grande jogo’Flamengo17/04/2021VídeoVÍDEO: assista aos dois gols de Pedro no empate do Flamengo com a PortuguesaVídeo17/04/2021FlamengoPedro celebra volta, mas diz que trocaria gols por vitória do FlamengoFlamengo17/04/2021
Ciente das falhas coletivas e individuais que resultaram os gols sofridos, em especial os cinco somando os jogos contra Vasco e Portuguesa, Rogério Ceni apontou uma boa notícia vindo deste cenário: o poder de reação apresentado no segundo tempo contra a Lusa. Mesmo assim, destacou que, para fazer uma “com o pé direito” na Copa Libertadores, é preciso um desempenho superior.
-Foram gols distintos nos dois jogos. Gol de bola parada que nós sofremos no primeiro jogo contra o Vasco. Depois um gol de contra-ataque já no final do jogo. Hoje (sábado) o time estava bem posicionado na área, e saiu um chute de raríssima felicidade da Portuguesa. E depois eu não consegui ver o segundo gol, um cruzamento rasteiro que passa por todo mundo por dentro da zaga. Tem um bate-rebate, e eles fazem o segundo gol, que é difícil para você retomar um jogo. A parte boa que fica é não ter se desesperado no jogo e poder reagir. Não tenho a mínima dúvida de que temos de jogar mais, ter os resultados, apresentar mais futebol, e isso tem que acontecer já na terça-feira.
O elenco do Flamengo treina neste domingo e embarca para Buenos Aires na sequência, Na segunda-feira, já trabalha na capital argentina, onde enfrenta o Vélez Sarsfield, na primeira rodada do Grupo G, na terça no Estádio José Almafitani, às 21h30 (de Brasília). Confira todas as chaves da Libertadores aqui!
Manchester City have reportedly garnered support from three English top-flight clubs in their legal battle against the Premier League.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Man City battle against APT rulesReceive support from three clubsJudgement might be announced soonWHAT HAPPENED?
According to Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Newcastle have sided with City in their battle against the Premier League's Associated Party Transactions (APT) rules. These regulations, introduced post the Saudi-led takeover of Newcastle in November 2021, are designed to prevent clubs from inflating sponsorship deals through related entities, thereby maintaining financial fair play within the league. Central to City's legal argument is the claim of discrimination. City asserts that the APT rules amount to a "tyranny of the majority," disproportionately targeting clubs with owners from the Middle East. They argue that these rules are not only restrictive but also unfairly prejudiced, designed to curb the influence and investment capabilities of Middle Eastern stakeholders.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Chelsea have been vocal about the need for greater transparency regarding APT rules. The club have an existing deal with Infinite Athlete, a company partially owned by Chelsea's joint owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali. Chelsea's statement criticises the current APT framework for its lack of clarity, especially concerning multi-club ownership. They argue that the rules need to be more explicit about what constitutes an acceptable transaction to avoid disputes over inflated sponsorship deals in the future. Meanwhile, Aston Villa's co-owner, Egyptian billionaire Nassef Sawiris, allegedly shares a close rapport with City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak. This relationship has seen Villa aligning with City's frustrations over the imposed spending limits. Sawiris, alongside Mubarak, contends that the current financial regulations stifle investment and growth potential, which is crucial for competing at the highest level.
DID YOU KNOW?
Newcastle, owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, have remained somewhat reticent in public votes concerning the APT rules. Nevertheless, the Magpies' abstention in recent votes hints at their tacit support for City's cause. The Magpies already benefit from a lucrative shirt sponsorship deal with Saudi events management firm Sela. A favourable outcome for City in this legal battle would likely set a precedent that could benefit Newcastle's financial strategies as well.
However, 10 to 12 clubs have sided with the Premier League's existing rules, including heavyweights like Manchester United, Arsenal, Fulham, Wolves, Brighton, and Tottenham. These clubs have submitted various forms of support, ranging from witness statements to letters, defending the APT regulations. They fear that a victory for City could undermine the financial integrity and competitive balance of the league.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?
The outcome of this legal battle holds significant ramifications for the Premier League's financial landscape. Should City prevail, it could lead to a major overhaul of the APT regulations, potentially opening the floodgates for increased investment from related entities. This, in turn, could alter the competitive dynamics of the league, enabling clubs with wealthy owners to gain an upper hand through enhanced financial muscle.
Chelsea are reportedly looking to make a statement signing this summer and could join Bayern Munich in the race to sign Barcelona's Ronald Araujo.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Chelsea looking to sign Ronald Araujo
Bayern also interested in the defender
Barca don't want to sell the Uruguayan
Getty Images
WHAT HAPPENED?
As per Mundo Deportivo, Chelsea are keeping a keen eye on the Uruguayan defender for a potential summer move as they believe he could take over as the leader in defence following Thiago Silva's departure from Stamford Bridge this summer.
Advertisement
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The Uruguayan currently has a contract with the Blaugrana that runs up to the summer of 2026 and also has an unrealistic release clause of €1 billion (£850m/$1.08bn). To further complicate the situation for Chelsea, Araujo is one of the names on the Catalan side's non-transferable priority list. However, due to Barcelona's economic troubles, the London outfit know that a big bid would likely appeal to Joan Laporta and company as they must comply with La Liga's FFP rules.
DID YOU KNOW?
Barca reportedly held talks with the Uruguayan over a potential contract extension earlier this year but negotiations have not progressed since as the Catalan side have put an extension on 'stand-by' as they look to make further investments in the squad.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Getty
WHAT NEXT FOR ARAUJO?
The Uruguayan defender's future could also depend on who is the manager at Barcelona next season as the club has been moving haphazardly in regard to Xavi Hernandez's future at the club. It is now very likely that Hansi Flick could join the Catalans to take over from the former midfielder.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is reportedly causing concern for one big European club, due to him eyeing up one of their current players.
Liverpool transfer rumours
The Reds may end up making no signings during the January transfer window, but there are plenty of supporters who will hope to see some key business completed between now and the end of the month. A number of different players have been linked with moves to Anfield, and at centre-back, highly-rated duo Goncalo Inacio and Piero Hincapie have emerged as targets, as they continue to shine for Sporting CP and Bayer Leverkusen respectively.
It isn't only at the back where signings have been mooted, however, with further midfield additions possible, despite four players coming in there last summer. Fulham's Joao Palhinha is considered an option, but the Cottagers will be desperate to keep hold of arguably their most important individual.
There is also a chance that Klopp could look to make further attacking reinforcements in the near future, especially if Mohamed Salah moves on in the summer, and Barcelona winger Raphinha has been linked with sealing a switch to Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp wants Kenan Yildiz at Liverpool
Now, according to a new update from Gazzetta dello Sport [via Sport Witness], Liverpool are eyeing up a move for Juventus youngster Kenan Yildiz, with Klopp's personal influence potentially proving to be key.
Kenan Yildiz celebrates.
The Reds boss appears to be the driving force behind the transfer, with the report saying "pay attention to Jurgen Klopp", adding that Juve are worried about him moving on and joining up with the German. The power that Klopp possesses in the modern game cannot be underestimated, with his man-management skills perhaps the greatest of a generation.
Yildiz is a young footballer who has so much immense promise in the coming years, so the idea of Liverpool snapping him up is undoubtedly exciting, with football talent scout Jacek Kulig describing him as "simply brilliant after his transfer from Bayern". Meanwhile, Sokyan Basar, technical director of Turkey's Under-19s, has said he is "more talented than Cristiano Ronaldo – his technique with the ball at his feet is superior to that of the Portuguese".
This perfectly illustrates how much potential Yildiz has moving forward, and why it would be so exciting to see the Reds sign him from Juve. Planning for the future always has to be at the forefront of the club's thinking, and at just 18 years of age, the young Turk certainly fits the bill.
Latest Liverpool transfer news: Alisson heir identified; £85m ace on radar
Liverpool have a huge summer ahead of them following the arrival of Arne Slot – here are all the latest transfer rumours from Anfield this summer.
ByAngus Sinclair Jul 11, 2024
Primarily a centre forward, he could add further depth in the final third, as well as put pressure on the likes of Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo to perform, especially as he improves with age.
Liverpool have sent scouts to watch an "excellent" player in person during the last week, having tabled a bid for him last summer, according to a fresh transfer update.
Liverpool's injury crisis worsens
The Reds are flying at the moment, threatening to go far in all four competitions they are playing in, and their defence is so much stronger than it looked last season, helped by a rebuilt midfield in front of it.
Despite this, there could be a need to sign a new defender during the January transfer window, with Joel Matip's cruciate ligament injury ruling him out for the remainder of the season and acting as a major blow.
It means there is a huge onus on both Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate to stay fit until May – the latter has been injury-prone in the past – with Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah good options, but both potentially required to fill in at full-back, with Trent Alexander-Arnold now injured, joining both left-backs in the treatment room.
A host of different centre-backs have been linked with moves to Liverpool this month, including Sporting CP star Goncalo Inacio, who is arguably one of Europe's most exciting young defenders at the moment, and can actually fill in at full-back as well.
Bayer Leverkusen ace Piero Hincapie has also emerged as a potential addition at Anfield, with his long-term ceiling thought to be very high, and Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi has also been touted as a target, too.
Goncalo Inacio to Liverpool update
According to a new claim from HITC from journalist Graeme Bailey, Liverpool have again been scouting Inacio ahead of a possible move in the near future, following FSG reportedly submitting a bid to Sporting at the start of the window.
"Liverpool’s main reason for being present (at Sporting's win over Estoril on Friday) was to continue their assessment of Goncalo Inacio. HITC Football understands that the Portuguese star is a player the Reds admire hugely and he has been on their radar for a couple of years."
It is no surprise that Inacio is a wanted man, having been lauded as an "excellent" player by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, and he could be an outstanding signing by Liverpool, whether that be in January or in the summer transfer window. The 22-year-old is arguably already one of the first names on Sporting's team sheet, and his numbers highlight what an imperious season he is enjoying for his current club.
Appearances
15
Starts
14
Goals
1
Clearances per game
1.9
Aerial duel wins per game
1.3
Pass completion rate
88.3%
If Liverpool manage to sign him, he could be viewed as Van Dijk's long-term replacement at the heart of their defence, and his ability to play at left-back as well would immediately improve the depth across Jurgen Klopp's defence.
A huge bid will be needed to snap up Inacio, which is no surprise given his ability, but he could be a mainstay of the back-line for a decade, eventually looking like a bargain, as has been the case with Van Dijk after his £75m switch from Southampton.
It wasn't so long ago that Newcastle United were struggling to survive in the Premier League, but ever since their takeover by the Saudi Investment Fund the Magpies have been flying up the Premier League ranks, resulting in Champions League qualification last season. Eddie Howe's side have impressed at times throughout the current campaign too, with their standout moment being a 4-1 thrashing of Paris Saint-Germain at St James' Park.
If some thought that result was a blip, then Newcastle's valiant 1-1 draw against the French champions quickly put an end to that belief, even if French newspaper L'Equipe delivered a rather harsh verdict on the Magpies' performance.
Newcastle vs PSG player ratings
Newcastle found themselves on the verge of what would have been a famous three points at the Parc des Princes before Kylian Mbappe equalised in the 98th minute with an incredibly controversial penalty awarded for Tino Livramento's handball.
The Magpies now face the prospect of a Champions League exit into the Europa League or out of Europe entirely in what will frustrate Howe, given how well his depleted side played. They sit third in Group E, level on points with Milan and two points adrift of PSG with one game left to play.
Despite how tight the game was, L'Equipe were not quick to praise Newcastle players. Instead, they delivered some fairly harsh ratings, handing 17-year-old Lewis Miley the lowest in the team with a four out of ten.
9/10 Newcastle star outshone Livramento & Isak against PSG
This “outstanding” player outshone Alexander Isak on his return and was Newcastle United’s real hero in the 1-1 draw away at PSG.
ByAdam Scully Nov 29, 2023
Meanwhile, Miguel Almiron, who very nearly had an early assist to his name and worked tirelessly all evening, was given a six, as was Tripper, who kept Mbappe quiet aside from his penalty, even forcing him to switch flanks late on in search of more space. Livramento was hit with a rating as low as five, despite often acting as Newcastle's driving force down the left-hand side and defending valiantly.
L'Equipe harsh on Newcastle players
Travelling to a side of PSG's stature is never an easy task. Taking the lead at the home of the French champions, meanwhile, before only being pegged back in the dying minutes by a controversial penalty call, seems an impossible task. Yet, Newcastle did just that, all whilst enduring their fair share of injury problems in the build-up. If anyone deserved credit, it was the Magpies.
Miley, at just 17-years-old, was particularly hard done by, given that he performed exceptionally in the circumstances. Almiron, meanwhile, would have come away with a memorable goal involvement if Alexander Isak had tucked away from close range at the first time of asking. From Howe's perspective though, what the media in France, or anywhere for that matter, say about his side won't replace his pride in his team.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe withMiguelAlmiron
Speaking after the game, Howe delivered his verdict on the controversial penalty call, saying via ITV: "It wasn’t the right decision in my opinion. There are so many things to take into account at that moment, the speed first. It was a ricochet that when it is slowed down, looks completely different to the live event.
“The ball hits his chest first, comes up and hits his hand. But his hand is not in an unnatural position, they [his hands] are down by his side, but he is in a running motion. I feel it is a poor decision and it’s hugely frustrating for us as you know how little time there is left in the game. There is nothing we can do about it now.”
Everton manager Sean Dyche has made a special appearance in indie band Blossoms' music video.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Dyche features in music videoEverton boss a fan of Indie band BlossomsToffees on three-game winning streak WHAT HAPPENED?
Stockport-based indie rock band Blossoms are set to release a new music track on May 1 where the Everton manager will make a special appearance. The band released a teaser of their latest track on X on Monday, and Dyche was spotted in the video.
AdvertisementWATCH THE CLIPGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The Toffees manager is known to be a fan of the British rock band as he recently expressed his admiration for the group while speaking on The Overlap podcast. He said, "I was with the lads from the Blossoms recently who are just great, there are so many."
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR EVERTON?
The Merseyside club are on a three-game winning streak in the league which includes a remarkable victory over rivals Liverpool. They will be next seen in action against Luton Town on Friday away from home.
Leeds United head into the last weekend before the November international break in third place in the Championship and eight points off the automatic places.
The Whites could close the gap to within a two-game swing if results go their way but their current position shows that they have had a strong start to life back in the second tier.
German head coach Daniel Farke was brought in over the summer and has been able to get the side firing after their relegation from the Premier League at the end of last season.
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke.
His business throughout the summer transfer window has played an important role in their recent success as nine new players were brought in.
Joel Piroe, Jaidon Anthony, Djed Spence, Glen Kamara, Joe Rodon, Ilia Gruev, Sam Byram, Ethan Ampadu, and Karl Darlow were all signed either permanently or on loan.
However, an impressive start to the campaign may not stop the Whites from making further additions to the squad in the upcoming January transfer window, as Angus Kinnear revealed last month that funds are available to bolster the team – if needed.
One player who has recently been linked with a switch to Elland Road at the start of next year is AFC Wimbledon centre-forward Ali Al-Hamadi.
Leeds United transfer news – Ali Al-Hamadi
According to a report from TEAMtalk, EFL outfits Blackburn Rovers and Derby County are both interested in a possible deal to land the Iraq international in January.
Leeds have also been credited with an interest in the talented marksman and Wimbledon are said to be reluctant to lose him ahead of the second half of the 2023/24 campaign.
However, the League Two outfit are bracing themselves for possible offers from the aforementioned clubs after they turned down approaches from Barnsley and Peterborough over the summer.
Before the last transfer window slammed shut, journalist Darren Witcoop reported that they were looking for a fee in excess of £1.2m for the impressive finisher.
Iraq international Ali Al-Hamadi.
It remains to be seen whether or not Leeds are willing to meet Wimbledon's valuation. However, Al-Hamadi could be an exciting addition to Farke's squad and a lethal partner for current first-team ace Georgino Rutter if he is able to make the step up to Championship football.
The right-footed whiz could provide Piroe with competition for his place to ensure that there is no complacency amongst the frontline, as the Dutch forward has struggled in recent weeks.
He scored four goals in his first five Championship outings for the Whites and has since managed just one goal and one assist in seven clashes.
However, Farke does not have the options to adequately replace him in the XI, even for a few matches, as Patrick Bamford has failed to provide a goal or an assist in seven league games this season, despite racking up 1.16 xG.
This suggests that Leeds could benefit from snapping up a talented forward who could keep Piroe on his toes and provide Rutter with another attacker to link up with at the top end of the pitch.
Rutter's statistics this season
The French maestro has enjoyed a phenomenal start to the 2023/24 campaign and has showcased his ability to make a consistent impact in the final third as a scorer and a creator.
Playing in a hybrid forward role that sees him start as the focal point whilst having the freedom to drop deep to collect the ball and make things happen, Rutter has been an exceptional creative talent for Farke.
The former Hoffenheim starlet has created a staggering 14 'big chances' in 13 Championship starts and created 2.6 key passes per match, to go along with his three league strikes.
Rutter's last five appearances (via Sofascore)
Match
Goal contribution
Chances created
Bristol City
N/A
Five
Norwich
Assist
Two
Stoke
N/A
Three
Huddersfield
Assist
Four
Leicester
Goal
Two
Talent scout Jacek Kulig recently revealed that the attacker leads the way in the division for 'big chances' created and hailed him as a "joy to watch".
After struggling, with zero goals and one assist in 11 matches, in the Premier League last season, Rutter has been able to hit his stride at Elland Road this term and has proven himself to be an influential figure at the top end of the pitch as Leeds fight to return to the top-flight at the first time of asking.
The statistics that show why Al-Hamadi could be a good signing for Leeds
Signing the 21-year-old ace would be a gamble by Farke and the Whites as the attacker is yet to prove himself as a consistent performer outside of League Two.
However, the talented youngster has plenty of years ahead of him to develop and grow and could be brought in as someone with the potential to make an immediate impact whilst also being a long-term project who could improve over time.
Wimbledon boss Johnnie Jackson once described Al-Hamadi as a "great foil" for his strike partner as his ability to play off the shoulder of the last defender causes panic and creates space between the lines for another player to drop into.
This could make him a perfect ace to play alongside Rutter as the French magician could thrive in the space that the Iraq international is able to create with his movement and centre-forward play – given his outstanding creative quality.
Al-Hamadi's form throughout 2023 also suggests that the potential is there for him to provide goals and assists on a regular basis if he is able to make the step up to Championship level.
The impressive youngster has contributed with four goals and five assists in 13 league starts throughout the 2023/24 campaign, after managing an eye-catching ten goals and one assist in 15 starts in the second half of last term.
This means that the 6 foot 2 Wimbledon star has contributed with 14 goals and six assists in his last 28 league matches for the club, which is an average of one goal contribution every 1.4 matches – compared to Piroe's one every 3.5 games over the last seven outings.
He could, therefore, be a lethal partner for Rutter in 2024 – with their respective ability to score and assist goals on a regular basis – and excellent competition for the Dutch marksman if Farke is able to secure a deal for his services, and help him to adapt to Championship football.
The first round of the 2018 NCL had an unprecedented 13 centuries, but the Khulna batsman’s twin centuries against Rajshahi stood out
Mohammad Isam04-Oct-2018
BCB
Best batsmenTushar Imran stood out among the 12 centurions in the opening round of the 2018 National Cricket League, with his twin centuries against Rajshahi Division in difficult circumstances, while Rony Talukdar and Ariful Haque racked up double-hundreds.Tushar nearly accounted for half of Khulna Division’s 210 all out with his first-innings 104. It wasn’t until the arrival of the No. 9 Nahidul Islam, with whom he added 88, that he found support. Tushar followed it up with 159, with the help of 21 fours and a six, as Khulna fought hard to earn a draw. He added 250 runs for the third wicket with Anamul Haque, who also started the season with a century.In Fatullah, Rony’s third double-hundred came in Dhaka Division’s second innings, in which he and Abdul Mazid shared a Bangladesh first-class record opening stand of 350 runs. They beat the previous best of 341 runs between Nazmul Hossain Shanto and Mizanur Rahman from the 2017-18 NCL. Rony made 228 off 252 balls with 18 fours and seven sixes.Ariful’s 231 was his maiden double-century, which arrived with the help of 21 fours and four sixes in a near-eight-hour stay at the crease in Bogra. In the same match, Barisal’s No. 3 Fazle Mahmud missed out on a double ton, perishing on 195, having spent more than eight hours, and 424 balls while hitting 18 fours and three sixes.Best bowlersThe best news to come out of the bowlers’ camp was legspinner Jubair Hossain’s five-wicket haul against Dhaka Division, his first five-for in four years. Jubair had been a neglected figure in Bangladesh cricket ever since he burst on to the scene in 2014.He played only a single first-class game last season, and largely spent the Dhaka Premier League List-A competition on the bench. In a bid to revive his career, Jubair has been working with a legspin bowling coach in the last six months.Among the fast bowlers, Shahadat Hossain took his best match figures in ten years, finishing with 8 for 106 against Chittagong, and Shafiul Islam took a five-wicket haul in the first innings against a strong Khulna batting side.Meanwhile, Afif Hossain doubled his first-class wickets tally with a seven-wicket haul against Rajshahi. Having dismissed Nazmul Hossain Shanto and Junaid Siddique in the top-order, he removed the last five wickets, although Rajshahi had a healthy 352-run lead.Best matchRajshahi Division knocked down Khulna Division, the defending champions, for 210 in their first innings in Rajshahi, a body blow for the side that has won the last three NCL tournaments.Rajshahi’s reply with the bat was even better, as they took a 342-run lead having posted 552 in the first innings. Mizanur Rahman and Jahurul Islam struck centuries, and with several substantial partnerships throughout the innings, Khulna had little respite.But their powerful batting line-up responded to the deficit superbly, with Anamul Haque and Tushar Imran putting together 250 runs for the third wicket and taking the fight into the fourth day with eight wickets intact. Even after they fell in the space of four overs, Soumya Sarkar struck a quickfire century, only his second in first-class cricket and one that came after more than two years.Khulna fought back hard and finished the game with 2.5 points. Rajshahi took 4.8 points, but they would treat this game as an opportunity lost.Points to noteTwelve batsmen scored 13 centuries in the NCL’s first round, an unprecedented start to a cricket season in Bangladesh. Almost the entire front-row of the country’s first-class batsmen made good starts.The bowling, however, wasn’t as impressive, with only two fast bowlers, Shahadat and Shafiul, standing out with wickets. The usual cast of left-arm spinners took five-wicket hauls, although Jubair’s first five-for in four years was a point of interest.Players to watchAmong the Bangladesh players who were part of the Asia Cup squad, Soumya Sarkar and Nazmul Islam stood out with a century and five-wicket haul respectively.The national selectors would also look at Anamul Haque (who was dropped from the Asia Cup squad), Mizanur Rahman, Abdul Mazid and Shadman Islam for Bangladesh’s opening slot, as all four struck centuries.Naeem Islam and Jahurul Islam also reminded the selectors about their form with centuries, while Sohag Gazi started the season with a century and four wickets in the match.