James O'Brien 
Former players Stephen Warnock, Nedum Onuoha and journalist Lars Sivertsen discuss Harry Kane’s outstanding performances for Bayern Munich and England, questioning if his “phenomenal” season merits the Ballon d’Or. The piece highlights Kane’s goal-scoring feats in the Champions League and domestic competitions as a key factor in the debate.
Lancashire announced that veteran paceman James Anderson will not receive a new contract for the 2027 season, ending his 26‑year association with the club. The decision comes as Lancashire undergoes a review of its cricket operations under interim chair Dame Sarah Storey and new chief executive Richard Kenyon, with Paul Farbrace recently appointed as director of cricket.
Former Olympic sprinter Beth Dobbin, now bedridden with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, has appealed to Prime Minister Andy Burnham to increase research funding for the condition. She highlighted the lack of government investment and the severe impact on patients, urging action to help those affected.
England all‑rounder Jamie Overton, who has been focusing on limited‑overs cricket, said he would think about a Test recall for the 2027 Ashes if Joe Root approached him. He highlighted his recent injury history and current form in the one‑day tri‑series in Pakistan as factors in his decision.
England’s women’s rugby league side suffered a major blow as 23‑year‑old forward Jasmin Strange withdrew from the World Cup squad with a serious knee injury. Coach Stuart Barrow described the loss as devastating but confirmed Lucy Murray will step in, and the team will continue without adding another player for the rest of the tournament.
British No.2 Katie Boulter powered through a windy match in Osaka, beating Switzerland’s Viktorija Golubic 6-2 6-1 in less than an hour to book a place in the Japan Open quarter‑finals. The win keeps her in contention to reclaim the British No.1 ranking as she prepares for a possible clash with Antonia Ruzic or Kayla Day next round.
Crawley Town dismissed head coach Colin Kazim‑Richards following a 3‑2 loss to Shrewsbury Town, which left the club five points from safety at the bottom of League Two. Assistant Julian Gray and director of football Erdem Konyar also left the club as part of the shake‑up. The club thanked the departing staff for helping secure EFL status last season.
LeBron James made his debut for the Philadelphia 76ers, contributing 14 points and seven assists as the team beat the defending champion New York Knicks 106-100 on opening night of the NBA season. Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 28 points, while the Knicks’ top scorer was Jalen Brunson with 21 points.
Chelsea’s academy graduate Josh Acheampong has become a regular under Xabi Alonso, prompting the club to decide on his future before his contract expires in 2029. With interest from other clubs and recent defensive signings, Chelsea must weigh extending his deal against potential transfer options.
Great Britain’s men’s gymnastics team placed fourth in the team final at the 2026 World Championships in Rotterdam, falling short of the top three spots that guarantee early qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The team, featuring Courtney Tulloch, Joe Fraser, Jake Jarman, Harry Hepworth and Reuben Ward, will have a second chance to qualify at the 2027 World Championships in Chengdu.