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Puducherry cricket body suspends three first-class players on charges of assault on Under-19 state coach  Cricket Association of Pondicherry (CAP) has suspended three of its first-class cricketers with immediate effect on allegations that they assaulted the Under-19 state team’s coach Venkataraman on December 8 last year, the state body announced on Wednesday.The three players — J. Karthikeyan, A. Aravindaraj and S. Santhosh Kumaran — have all represented Pondicherry across Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in recent years. In fact, Aravindaraj had represented the union territory during last domestic season also.A press release issued by CAP said: “The trio have been charged with attempt to murder and assault on Venkataraman. A formal charge sheet has been filed by Station House Officer (SHO) Sedurapet Police Station under FIR 100/2025 and the matter is pending before Judicial Magistrate-IV Court Puducherry.” The CAP, in its own capacity, has “suspended the players” from entering any of its said campus and they are prohibited from using any of state association’s facilities.The players will not be allowed to play in any national or external tournaments and the suspension will remain effective till the court clears them of all charges. The accused trio do have the option of appealing to the Ethics Officer/Ombudsman of the state cricket body.Published on Apr 22, 2026  #Puducherry #cricket #body #suspends #firstclass #players #charges #assault #Under19 #state #coach

Puducherry cricket body suspends three first-class players on charges of assault on Under-19 state coach

Cricket Association of Pondicherry (CAP) has suspended three of its first-class cricketers with immediate effect on allegations that they assaulted the Under-19 state team’s coach Venkataraman on December 8 last year, the state body announced on Wednesday.

The three players — J. Karthikeyan, A. Aravindaraj and S. Santhosh Kumaran — have all represented Pondicherry across Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in recent years. In fact, Aravindaraj had represented the union territory during last domestic season also.

A press release issued by CAP said: “The trio have been charged with attempt to murder and assault on Venkataraman. A formal charge sheet has been filed by Station House Officer (SHO) Sedurapet Police Station under FIR 100/2025 and the matter is pending before Judicial Magistrate-IV Court Puducherry.” The CAP, in its own capacity, has “suspended the players” from entering any of its said campus and they are prohibited from using any of state association’s facilities.

The players will not be allowed to play in any national or external tournaments and the suspension will remain effective till the court clears them of all charges. The accused trio do have the option of appealing to the Ethics Officer/Ombudsman of the state cricket body.

Published on Apr 22, 2026

#Puducherry #cricket #body #suspends #firstclass #players #charges #assault #Under19 #state #coach

Cricket Association of Pondicherry (CAP) has suspended three of its first-class cricketers with immediate effect on allegations that they assaulted the Under-19 state team’s coach Venkataraman on December 8 last year, the state body announced on Wednesday.

The three players — J. Karthikeyan, A. Aravindaraj and S. Santhosh Kumaran — have all represented Pondicherry across Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in recent years. In fact, Aravindaraj had represented the union territory during last domestic season also.

A press release issued by CAP said: “The trio have been charged with attempt to murder and assault on Venkataraman. A formal charge sheet has been filed by Station House Officer (SHO) Sedurapet Police Station under FIR 100/2025 and the matter is pending before Judicial Magistrate-IV Court Puducherry.” The CAP, in its own capacity, has “suspended the players” from entering any of its said campus and they are prohibited from using any of state association’s facilities.

The players will not be allowed to play in any national or external tournaments and the suspension will remain effective till the court clears them of all charges. The accused trio do have the option of appealing to the Ethics Officer/Ombudsman of the state cricket body.

Published on Apr 22, 2026

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#Puducherry #cricket #body #suspends #firstclass #players #charges #assault #Under19 #state #coach

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NFL Draft rumors on Bears name that ‘keeps coming up,’ Giants’ plans in the top-10, and more <div id="zephr-anchor"><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">We are almost there, friends.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Depending on when exactly you are reading this, the 2026 NFL Draft is just over 24 hours away. Again, we know what will happen at No. 1, which is when the Las Vegas Raiders will select quarterback Fernando Mendoza. <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1111616/fernando-mendoza-interview-nfl-draft-faith-family-recruiting-journey">Read SB Nation’s exclusive interview with Mendoza</a> for more on his journey from two-star recruit to No. 1 overall draft pick.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">So let’s round up the latest guesses in today’s spin around the carousel of rumors.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Run on offensive tackles?</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Could the 2026 NFL Draft see a run on offensive tackles, inside the first 15 selections?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">That is the scenario contemplated by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, who shared this on social media Tuesday:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Fowler is not alone in thinking that offensive linemen could be a big part of the discussion on Thursday night. His ESPN colleague Dan Graziano <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/48552000/2026-nfl-draft-news-intel-buzz-top-picks-prospects-sleepers-trades">wrote this on Wednesday morning</a>:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><blockquote class="duet--article--blockquote _1teeyfa0 ls9zuh9"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">I’m predicting at least seven and as many as 10 offensive linemen get picked in the first round. There’s a late-round zone loaded with teams that would love to come out of Thursday night with a new offensive lineman, including the Lions, Panthers, Steelers, Chargers, Eagles, Browns, Bears, 49ers, Chiefs and Patriots. Kansas City could even use its No. 9 pick on an offensive tackle and no one would be surprised. Baltimore could take Ioane at No. 14, if he’s there.</p></blockquote></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">In our most <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1111419/nfl-mock-draft-2026-after-dexter-lawrence-giants-bengals-trade">recent mock draft</a>, we had seven offensive linemen coming off the board, right in line with Graziano’s prediction. However, the “run” on offensive tackles did not come until the 20s, with the Philadelphia Eagles taking Blake Miller at No. 23 and the Cleveland Browns adding Max Iheanachor at No. 24.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But it looks like that run could happen earlier.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">What are the Giants thinking, redux?</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Ever since the New York Giants swung the big Dexter Lawrence trade, we have been trying to decipher their plans for both No. 5, and No. 10. That was a focus on <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1111480/nfl-draft-rumors-fallers-ty-simpson-jeremiya-love">Monday’s rumors roundup</a>, and we revisit their plans here today.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">On Monday we discussed reporting from Connor Hughes of <em>SNY</em>, who mentioned Sonny Styles, Jeremiyah Love, and Caleb Downs as options at No. 5. Hughes also believes that a trade would be possible if somehow David Bailey were on the board when the Giants were on the clock at No. 5. Then at No. 10, offensive linemen come into play, as well as wide receiver Jordyn Tyson.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">However, <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/48552000/2026-nfl-draft-news-intel-buzz-top-picks-prospects-sleepers-trades">Graziano notes</a> that from what he has been told, at No. 5 “their most likely picks would be Love (if he’s still there) or Ohio State safety Caleb Downs. Multiple people have told me they believe Downs would be the Giants’ pick even ahead of linebacker Sonny Styles, Downs’ college teammate.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">As for No. 10, if it is not Tyson then Graziano believes they will draft an offensive lineman.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Who might that be? Graziano mentions Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane, which is in line with a name I’ve been hearing more and more regarding that pick at No. 10. Stay tuned …</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Jermod McCoy’s injury concerns</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy’s injury concerns remain a talking point as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">According to longtime NFL Draft analyst Tony Pauline, some teams have deemed his injured knee — he missed 2025 following ACL surgery — a “degenerative” condition:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Additional reporting indicates that McCoy might need an additional surgery to replace a “bone plug” used to repair a “cartilage defect” in that knee, and that the concerns are not related to the initial ACL repair:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">This is starting to feel like last year with Will Johnson, the cornerback who was considered a top-ten pick but fell to the Arizona Cardinals in the second round due to his own injury history.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Ty Simpson still an option for the Rams?</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Early in mock draft season, Ty Simpson was a popular pick for the Los Angeles Rams with their pick at the end of the first round.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">I should know, I feel like I made that pick in more than a few mock drafts myself …</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But when the Rams used that pick in a trade for cornerback Trent McDuffie, it seemed to end the dreams of Simpson landing in Los Angeles to learn from Matthew Stafford and Sean McVay. Now, the Rams have just one pick in the first 60 selections — the pick they received from the Atlanta Falcons at No. 13 — and with Stafford having just put pen to paper on a new contract, getting a player that can help right away seems like the pressing need.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Graziano is not so sure, and <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/48552000/2026-nfl-draft-news-intel-buzz-top-picks-prospects-sleepers-trades">makes the case that Simpson</a> could still be in play, whether via a trade down or even at No. 13:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><blockquote class="duet--article--blockquote _1teeyfa0 ls9zuh9"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">But as I said, the Rams don’t appear to have any crying needs for which the 13th pick could help them in their effort to win the Super Bowl at home. So, could they trade down from No. 13 and still take Simpson later in the round? Possibly. Could they just bite the bullet and take Simpson at No. 13 if they like him that much? Unlikely, but again, this is a tough team to predict.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">If the Rams take Simpson in the first round, they’re likely to face criticism for not finding immediate help for a win-now team with 38-year-old reigning MVP Matthew Stafford at quarterback. But would they care? This is the “F— them picks” franchise, remember? If they truly believe Simpson has the potential to be Stafford’s successor, I don’t think it’s ridiculous to think they could go ahead and take him.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">Add in that division-rival Arizona — which many believe is the real team to watch for Simpson — holds the 34th pick and would be a candidate to either draft him there or trade back into the first round to land him and it makes the Rams/Simpson theories a little bit spicier.</p></blockquote></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Again, even Graziano says Simpson at No. 13 is “unlikely,” but the Rams are a tough team to predict this, and every, year.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">What about the Chicago Bears at No. 25?</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">We have not talked about the Chicago Bears much during the run to the 2026 NFL Draft.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">So let’s change that a bit.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Early in the draft cycle, defensive line was a popular position for the Bears to address in mock drafts. That often came in the form of pass rushers such as Missouri’s Zion Young or Clemson’s T.J. Parker, or even through defensive tackles such as Kayden MacDonald from Ohio State.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Recently, safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren has become a popular pick for them in that spot. According to consensus mock drafts as <a href="https://www.nflmockdraftdatabase.com/teams/2026/chicago-bears">compiled by <em>NFL Mock Draft Database</em></a><em>, </em>he is the most popular pick for the Bears over the past week.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But one insider believes the Bears have made up their mind, and are targeting Auburn’s Keldric Faulk because of how he would fit with defensive coordinator Dennis Allen.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">“One name that kind of keeps coming up is a fit for Dennis Allen: Keldric Faulk from Auburn,” <em>Sports Illustrated’s </em>Albert Breer said <a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/bears/onsi/bears-nfl-draft-rumors-bears-options-news">recently on <em>ESPN 1000</em></a><em>. </em></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Cowboys trading … down?</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">In recent weeks, the idea of the Dallas Cowboys trading up in the first round to secure one of the premium defensive prospects has become a popular theory. In our most recent mock draft, for example, we had the Cowboys trading all the way up to No. 3 to pick Arvell Reese. Others believe the Cowboys would move to No. 6 in a deal with the Cleveland Browns.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">But is it more likely that the Cowboys move … down?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">That is what <a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft2026/story/_/id/48552000/2026-nfl-draft-news-intel-buzz-top-picks-prospects-sleepers-trades">Graziano believes</a>, who wrote this on Wednesday morning:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><blockquote class="duet--article--blockquote _1teeyfa0 ls9zuh9"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">I would actually say it’s more likely the Cowboys trade down from No. 20 than up from No. 12. They need a ton of help on defense and would love it if Styles, Downs or LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane fell to them at No. 12; they could get to work addressing the other positional needs at No. 20 and later. Dallas also doesn’t have a second-round pick (it belongs to the Jets from the Quinnen Williams trade), which is why I’ve been told to watch out for the Cowboys to trade down from No. 20 to try to recoup some Day 2 capital.</p></blockquote></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The point about Dallas lacking a second-round pick is important. As with every draft class, there are solid prospects to be found on Day 2, players who could contribute immediately while not having the same upside as the prospects who will come off the board Thursday night. Dallas could find, for example, a pass rusher early on Day 2 if they trade back, with players like T.J. Parker, Cashius Howell, Zion Young, Malachi Lawrence, R Mason Thomas, and Gabe Jacas all expected to be second-round selections.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Could the Jaguars move up?</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Thanks to the trade for Travis Hunter Jr. last year, the Jacksonville Jaguars do not have a pick on Thursday night.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Jacksonville beat writer John Shipley, who is as <a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/jaguars/onsi/jacksonville-draft-rumors-what-real-smokescreen">plugged-in as it gets down in Duval</a>, wrote Wednesday morning that the idea of the Jaguars trading back into the first round is not as far-fetched as one might believe.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><blockquote class="duet--article--blockquote _1teeyfa0 ls9zuh9"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">With that said, it is hard to ignore the possibility of the Jaguars moving up for a few reasons. For one, they have 11 picks this year and a projected 10 picks in 2027. Having 21 picks in that span gives the Jaguars the ammo neccesary to attempt to move back into the first, whether they would do it in one big move or via multiple trades.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">With four picks in the top-100, the Jaguars could find a trade package worth enticing teams. Looking at the state of the Jaguars’ roster, it is hard to say they will have 11 open spots on the 53-man roster. This isn’t to say I believe the Jaguars ultimately will do it — I think it needs to be the right set of circumstances and for specific targets.</p><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup _1teeyfa8 ls9zuh1">What I am saying on this, though, is to not discount the idea. It has been floated enough as a possibility outside of Jacksonville enough in recent days to at least consider it being a realistic priority.</p></blockquote></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">As for who the Jaguars would target via a trade back into the first round, Shipley notes that “[l]ogic says a top defender who is falling.” However, he also reminds us that head coach Liam Coen has his mind on the offense, and would “likely … not have any issues with taking a top-rated playmaker either.”</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The only player Shipley mentions by name in this scenario? Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq.</p></div></div> #NFL #Draft #rumors #Bears #coming #Giants #plans #top10

Liverpool’s third-choice goalkeeper Freddie Woodman could feature in Saturday’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace, manager Arne Slot said as he looks to manage a goalkeeping crisis.

The 29-year-old made his first Liverpool appearance in last weekend’s 2-1 Merseyside derby win over Everton after Giorgi Mamardashvili, who had been playing in place of the injured Alisson Becker, was forced off in the second half.

“Giorgi will definitely not be available and not for the upcoming weeks,” Slot told reporters.

“Ali is close to returning to play. Let’s see if Saturday comes too early. That leaves Freddie Woodman as an option, who is definitely fit.”

Slot said Liverpool’s decision to sign an experienced third-choice goalkeeper was made with such scenarios in mind.

“Usually you don’t need him that much, but there could be situations when one is injured and one is suspended — or in this case, more than one is unavailable,” the 47-year-old said.

ALSO READ: Manchester City leapfrogs Arsenal to top Premier League table; Burnley relegated

“He has the experience to play at Premier League level, but definitely at Championship level.

“He’s ready for it, but it will always be helpful if the fans support him.”

Slot also confirmed that defender Joe Gomez is available again after missing the derby through injury, while midfielder Wataru Endo is making good progress and could return before the end of the season.

Despite discussions already under way about next season and Slot’s future, he said his focus remains firmly on the short term and Liverpool’s push for a top-five finish.

“Margins are small. One or two results can make a big difference. Two weeks ago we weren’t five points clear of sixth place and two results later we are,” he said.

“It can also go both ways, so my full focus is on Palace.”

Liverpool has faced Palace three times this season without a win, and Slot highlighted the challenge posed by Oliver Glasner’s side.

“They have a very good manager who is able to bring a lot of discipline to that team. It’s really hard to create chances against them,” he said.

“They have conceded the second-fewest goals after Arsenal, so that tells you a lot.”

Liverpool is fifth on 55 points and hosts 13th-placed Palace on Saturday as it continues its push for Champions League qualification.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#Woodman #start #Liverpool #deal #goalkeeping #crisis #Palace #clash">Woodman could start as Liverpool deal with goalkeeping crisis before Palace clash  Liverpool’s third-choice goalkeeper Freddie Woodman could feature in Saturday’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace, manager Arne Slot said as he looks to manage a goalkeeping crisis.The 29-year-old made his first Liverpool appearance in last weekend’s 2-1 Merseyside derby win over Everton after Giorgi Mamardashvili, who had been playing in place of the injured Alisson Becker, was forced off in the second half.“Giorgi will definitely not be available and not for the upcoming weeks,” Slot told reporters.“Ali is close to returning to play. Let’s see if Saturday comes too early. That leaves Freddie Woodman as an option, who is definitely fit.”Slot said Liverpool’s decision to sign an experienced third-choice goalkeeper was made with such scenarios in mind.“Usually you don’t need him that much, but there could be situations when one is injured and one is suspended — or in this case, more than one is unavailable,” the 47-year-old said.ALSO READ: Manchester City leapfrogs Arsenal to top Premier League table; Burnley relegated“He has the experience to play at Premier League level, but definitely at Championship level.“He’s ready for it, but it will always be helpful if the fans support him.”Slot also confirmed that defender Joe Gomez is available again after missing the derby through injury, while midfielder Wataru Endo is making good progress and could return before the end of the season.Despite discussions already under way about next season and Slot’s future, he said his focus remains firmly on the short term and Liverpool’s push for a top-five finish.“Margins are small. One or two results can make a big difference. Two weeks ago we weren’t five points clear of sixth place and two results later we are,” he said.“It can also go both ways, so my full focus is on Palace.”Liverpool has faced Palace three times this season without a win, and Slot highlighted the challenge posed by Oliver Glasner’s side.“They have a very good manager who is able to bring a lot of discipline to that team. It’s really hard to create chances against them,” he said.“They have conceded the second-fewest goals after Arsenal, so that tells you a lot.”Liverpool is fifth on 55 points and hosts 13th-placed Palace on Saturday as it continues its push for Champions League qualification.Published on Apr 24, 2026  #Woodman #start #Liverpool #deal #goalkeeping #crisis #Palace #clash

Manchester City leapfrogs Arsenal to top Premier League table; Burnley relegated

“He has the experience to play at Premier League level, but definitely at Championship level.

“He’s ready for it, but it will always be helpful if the fans support him.”

Slot also confirmed that defender Joe Gomez is available again after missing the derby through injury, while midfielder Wataru Endo is making good progress and could return before the end of the season.

Despite discussions already under way about next season and Slot’s future, he said his focus remains firmly on the short term and Liverpool’s push for a top-five finish.

“Margins are small. One or two results can make a big difference. Two weeks ago we weren’t five points clear of sixth place and two results later we are,” he said.

“It can also go both ways, so my full focus is on Palace.”

Liverpool has faced Palace three times this season without a win, and Slot highlighted the challenge posed by Oliver Glasner’s side.

“They have a very good manager who is able to bring a lot of discipline to that team. It’s really hard to create chances against them,” he said.

“They have conceded the second-fewest goals after Arsenal, so that tells you a lot.”

Liverpool is fifth on 55 points and hosts 13th-placed Palace on Saturday as it continues its push for Champions League qualification.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#Woodman #start #Liverpool #deal #goalkeeping #crisis #Palace #clash">Woodman could start as Liverpool deal with goalkeeping crisis before Palace clash

Liverpool’s third-choice goalkeeper Freddie Woodman could feature in Saturday’s Premier League match against Crystal Palace, manager Arne Slot said as he looks to manage a goalkeeping crisis.

The 29-year-old made his first Liverpool appearance in last weekend’s 2-1 Merseyside derby win over Everton after Giorgi Mamardashvili, who had been playing in place of the injured Alisson Becker, was forced off in the second half.

“Giorgi will definitely not be available and not for the upcoming weeks,” Slot told reporters.

“Ali is close to returning to play. Let’s see if Saturday comes too early. That leaves Freddie Woodman as an option, who is definitely fit.”

Slot said Liverpool’s decision to sign an experienced third-choice goalkeeper was made with such scenarios in mind.

“Usually you don’t need him that much, but there could be situations when one is injured and one is suspended — or in this case, more than one is unavailable,” the 47-year-old said.

ALSO READ: Manchester City leapfrogs Arsenal to top Premier League table; Burnley relegated

“He has the experience to play at Premier League level, but definitely at Championship level.

“He’s ready for it, but it will always be helpful if the fans support him.”

Slot also confirmed that defender Joe Gomez is available again after missing the derby through injury, while midfielder Wataru Endo is making good progress and could return before the end of the season.

Despite discussions already under way about next season and Slot’s future, he said his focus remains firmly on the short term and Liverpool’s push for a top-five finish.

“Margins are small. One or two results can make a big difference. Two weeks ago we weren’t five points clear of sixth place and two results later we are,” he said.

“It can also go both ways, so my full focus is on Palace.”

Liverpool has faced Palace three times this season without a win, and Slot highlighted the challenge posed by Oliver Glasner’s side.

“They have a very good manager who is able to bring a lot of discipline to that team. It’s really hard to create chances against them,” he said.

“They have conceded the second-fewest goals after Arsenal, so that tells you a lot.”

Liverpool is fifth on 55 points and hosts 13th-placed Palace on Saturday as it continues its push for Champions League qualification.

Published on Apr 24, 2026

#Woodman #start #Liverpool #deal #goalkeeping #crisis #Palace #clash
Deadspin | Behind Bo Bichette, Mets put mini win streak on line vs. Rockies  Apr 23, 2026; New York City, New York, USA;  New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette (19) hits a three-run double during the eighth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images   Bo Bichette seems to like batting leadoff for the New York Mets.  Good thing, because the Mets are going to be without their usual leadoff hitter for a while.  Bichette and the Mets will look to continue building a winning streak Friday night when New York hosts the Colorado Rockies in the opener of a three-game series.  Freddy Peralta (1-2, 4.05 ERA) is slated to start for the Mets against the Rockies’ Michael Lorenzen (1-2, 7.48) in a battle of right-handers.  The Mets and Rockies were on the opposite ends of 10-8 scores as the host team in the rubber matches of three-game series Thursday. New York outlasted the Minnesota Twins, while Colorado fell to the San Diego Padres.  Bichette went 3-for-5 on Thursday, when his three-run eighth-inning double snapped a 7-7 tie and helped the Mets avoid an ugly loss.  New York, which ended a 12-game losing streak on Wednesday, squandered a 7-2 lead on Thursday. The Mets then nearly frittered away the advantage again in the ninth, when Devin Williams gave up an RBI single to Tristan Gray before he ended the game by striking out Trevor Larnach with the potential tying run in scoring position.  The Mets won the same day Francisco Lindor, the team’s regular leadoff man, went on the 10-day injured list due to a strained left calf sustained Wednesday night.  “It’s hard to (establish) a timetable,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said regarding Lindor’s absence, “but we do know that he’s going to be down for a while.”  Fortunately for the Mets, Bichette appears to be warming up after a slow start. The 28-year-old third baseman, who signed with New York in January, went 1-for-4 as the leadoff hitter on Wednesday, when Mendoza shuffled the lineup and batted Lindor fourth.   The three hits Thursday tied a season high for Bichette, who has collected a hit in seven of his past eight games to raise his average to .238 — only the third time this season that he ended a game batting higher than .230.  “I don’t know if it has anything to do with (being first in the lineup),” said Bichette, a career .282 hitter when batting leadoff. “I felt good today.”  The Rockies appeared to be on the verge of a feel-good victory on Thursday and their second straight winning homestand to start the season when they carried an 8-5 lead into the ninth inning. However, closer Victor Vodnik, who got the final out of the eighth, gave up five runs in the ninth, including Gavin Sheets’ go-ahead three-run homer.  Colorado finished 3-4 on a homestand that included a split of a four-game series with the two-time defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers.  The Rockies, who went 4-2 on their first homestand of the season against the Philadelphia Phillies and Houston Astros, had a 25-56 home mark last year, when they finished a franchise-worst 43-119.  The Rockies are 10-16 this season, which puts them ahead of only the Mets (9-16) and the Philadelphia Phillies (8-17) in the National League but well ahead of the pace they set last year, when Colorado didn’t record its 10th win until June 2.  “It’s been a year so far with a lot of highs and some lows,” said Rockies outfielder Mickey Moniak, who went 4-for-5 with two homers on Thursday. “Now it’s just going to be about finding that consistent high and figuring out ways to win baseball games.”  Peralta took the defeat in his most recent start, when he gave up three runs over 5 2/3 innings as the Mets fell 4-2 to the Chicago Cubs on Saturday. He is 4-2 with a 3.49 ERA in eight career games (seven starts) against the Rockies.  Lorenzen didn’t factor into the decision Sunday after allowing three runs over five innings in the Rockies’ 9-6 win over the Dodgers. He owns a 2-1 record and a 2.61 ERA with two saves in 16 games (four starts) vs. the Mets.  –Field Level Media    #Deadspin #Bichette #Mets #put #mini #win #streak #line #RockiesApr 23, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette (19) hits a three-run double during the eighth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Bo Bichette seems to like batting leadoff for the New York Mets.

Good thing, because the Mets are going to be without their usual leadoff hitter for a while.

Bichette and the Mets will look to continue building a winning streak Friday night when New York hosts the Colorado Rockies in the opener of a three-game series.

Freddy Peralta (1-2, 4.05 ERA) is slated to start for the Mets against the Rockies’ Michael Lorenzen (1-2, 7.48) in a battle of right-handers.

The Mets and Rockies were on the opposite ends of 10-8 scores as the host team in the rubber matches of three-game series Thursday. New York outlasted the Minnesota Twins, while Colorado fell to the San Diego Padres.

Bichette went 3-for-5 on Thursday, when his three-run eighth-inning double snapped a 7-7 tie and helped the Mets avoid an ugly loss.

New York, which ended a 12-game losing streak on Wednesday, squandered a 7-2 lead on Thursday. The Mets then nearly frittered away the advantage again in the ninth, when Devin Williams gave up an RBI single to Tristan Gray before he ended the game by striking out Trevor Larnach with the potential tying run in scoring position.

The Mets won the same day Francisco Lindor, the team’s regular leadoff man, went on the 10-day injured list due to a strained left calf sustained Wednesday night.

“It’s hard to (establish) a timetable,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said regarding Lindor’s absence, “but we do know that he’s going to be down for a while.”


Fortunately for the Mets, Bichette appears to be warming up after a slow start. The 28-year-old third baseman, who signed with New York in January, went 1-for-4 as the leadoff hitter on Wednesday, when Mendoza shuffled the lineup and batted Lindor fourth.

The three hits Thursday tied a season high for Bichette, who has collected a hit in seven of his past eight games to raise his average to .238 — only the third time this season that he ended a game batting higher than .230.

“I don’t know if it has anything to do with (being first in the lineup),” said Bichette, a career .282 hitter when batting leadoff. “I felt good today.”

The Rockies appeared to be on the verge of a feel-good victory on Thursday and their second straight winning homestand to start the season when they carried an 8-5 lead into the ninth inning. However, closer Victor Vodnik, who got the final out of the eighth, gave up five runs in the ninth, including Gavin Sheets’ go-ahead three-run homer.

Colorado finished 3-4 on a homestand that included a split of a four-game series with the two-time defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Rockies, who went 4-2 on their first homestand of the season against the Philadelphia Phillies and Houston Astros, had a 25-56 home mark last year, when they finished a franchise-worst 43-119.

The Rockies are 10-16 this season, which puts them ahead of only the Mets (9-16) and the Philadelphia Phillies (8-17) in the National League but well ahead of the pace they set last year, when Colorado didn’t record its 10th win until June 2.

“It’s been a year so far with a lot of highs and some lows,” said Rockies outfielder Mickey Moniak, who went 4-for-5 with two homers on Thursday. “Now it’s just going to be about finding that consistent high and figuring out ways to win baseball games.”

Peralta took the defeat in his most recent start, when he gave up three runs over 5 2/3 innings as the Mets fell 4-2 to the Chicago Cubs on Saturday. He is 4-2 with a 3.49 ERA in eight career games (seven starts) against the Rockies.

Lorenzen didn’t factor into the decision Sunday after allowing three runs over five innings in the Rockies’ 9-6 win over the Dodgers. He owns a 2-1 record and a 2.61 ERA with two saves in 16 games (four starts) vs. the Mets.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Bichette #Mets #put #mini #win #streak #line #Rockies">Deadspin | Behind Bo Bichette, Mets put mini win streak on line vs. Rockies  Apr 23, 2026; New York City, New York, USA;  New York Mets shortstop Bo Bichette (19) hits a three-run double during the eighth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images   Bo Bichette seems to like batting leadoff for the New York Mets.  Good thing, because the Mets are going to be without their usual leadoff hitter for a while.  Bichette and the Mets will look to continue building a winning streak Friday night when New York hosts the Colorado Rockies in the opener of a three-game series.  Freddy Peralta (1-2, 4.05 ERA) is slated to start for the Mets against the Rockies’ Michael Lorenzen (1-2, 7.48) in a battle of right-handers.  The Mets and Rockies were on the opposite ends of 10-8 scores as the host team in the rubber matches of three-game series Thursday. New York outlasted the Minnesota Twins, while Colorado fell to the San Diego Padres.  Bichette went 3-for-5 on Thursday, when his three-run eighth-inning double snapped a 7-7 tie and helped the Mets avoid an ugly loss.  New York, which ended a 12-game losing streak on Wednesday, squandered a 7-2 lead on Thursday. The Mets then nearly frittered away the advantage again in the ninth, when Devin Williams gave up an RBI single to Tristan Gray before he ended the game by striking out Trevor Larnach with the potential tying run in scoring position.  The Mets won the same day Francisco Lindor, the team’s regular leadoff man, went on the 10-day injured list due to a strained left calf sustained Wednesday night.  “It’s hard to (establish) a timetable,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said regarding Lindor’s absence, “but we do know that he’s going to be down for a while.”  Fortunately for the Mets, Bichette appears to be warming up after a slow start. The 28-year-old third baseman, who signed with New York in January, went 1-for-4 as the leadoff hitter on Wednesday, when Mendoza shuffled the lineup and batted Lindor fourth.   The three hits Thursday tied a season high for Bichette, who has collected a hit in seven of his past eight games to raise his average to .238 — only the third time this season that he ended a game batting higher than .230.  “I don’t know if it has anything to do with (being first in the lineup),” said Bichette, a career .282 hitter when batting leadoff. “I felt good today.”  The Rockies appeared to be on the verge of a feel-good victory on Thursday and their second straight winning homestand to start the season when they carried an 8-5 lead into the ninth inning. However, closer Victor Vodnik, who got the final out of the eighth, gave up five runs in the ninth, including Gavin Sheets’ go-ahead three-run homer.  Colorado finished 3-4 on a homestand that included a split of a four-game series with the two-time defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers.  The Rockies, who went 4-2 on their first homestand of the season against the Philadelphia Phillies and Houston Astros, had a 25-56 home mark last year, when they finished a franchise-worst 43-119.  The Rockies are 10-16 this season, which puts them ahead of only the Mets (9-16) and the Philadelphia Phillies (8-17) in the National League but well ahead of the pace they set last year, when Colorado didn’t record its 10th win until June 2.  “It’s been a year so far with a lot of highs and some lows,” said Rockies outfielder Mickey Moniak, who went 4-for-5 with two homers on Thursday. “Now it’s just going to be about finding that consistent high and figuring out ways to win baseball games.”  Peralta took the defeat in his most recent start, when he gave up three runs over 5 2/3 innings as the Mets fell 4-2 to the Chicago Cubs on Saturday. He is 4-2 with a 3.49 ERA in eight career games (seven starts) against the Rockies.  Lorenzen didn’t factor into the decision Sunday after allowing three runs over five innings in the Rockies’ 9-6 win over the Dodgers. He owns a 2-1 record and a 2.61 ERA with two saves in 16 games (four starts) vs. the Mets.  –Field Level Media    #Deadspin #Bichette #Mets #put #mini #win #streak #line #Rockies

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