George Ford in line to beat Fin Smith for England fly-half berth against Australia

In a recent women's international football friendly, England faced a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Brazil, who played with only ten players. This loss has raised concerns about the team's performance and strategy as they prepare for upcoming competitions. The Lionesses, known for their strong presence in women's football, will need to regroup and address these issues to regain their competitive edge. Fans are eager to see how the team will bounce back and what adjustments will be made moving forward.

In a surprising move, England's head coach Steve Borthwick has left out Marcus Smith from the squad for the upcoming match against Australia, opting for George Ford as the starting fly-half instead. This decision has raised eyebrows, especially with six British & Irish Lions, including Tom Curry, on the bench. The match at Twickenham is crucial for England as they aim to solidify their strategy and performance ahead of future competitions, making Smith's absence a significant talking point among fans and analysts alike.

In the latest episode of Women's Football Weekly, host Faye Carruthers and guests discuss England's disappointing defeat to Brazil, highlighting the challenges faced by the team. The conversation also touches on Jess Fishlock's heartfelt farewell, marking the end of an era for the player. This matters as it reflects the ongoing struggles and emotional moments in women's football, showcasing both the highs and lows of the sport.

Blair Tickner is set to make his return to the New Zealand cricket team after a challenging two years marked by personal struggles, including his wife Sarah's leukaemia diagnosis. This comeback is significant not just for his career but also as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity. Tickner's journey highlights the importance of family and mental health, reminding fans that life can be bigger than the sport itself.

Dutch beach volleyball player Steven van de Velde has been denied a visa to enter Australia for the upcoming world championships due to his past conviction for raping a 12-year-old girl in 2014. This decision highlights Australia's strict immigration policies regarding individuals with serious criminal records, ensuring that the safety of its citizens remains a priority. The rejection not only affects Van de Velde's career but also raises discussions about how countries handle the entry of athletes with criminal backgrounds.

Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer is currently recovering in a Sydney hospital after suffering a lacerated spleen during a match against Australia. The injury occurred when he fell awkwardly while attempting to catch a ball. This incident is significant as it raises concerns about player safety and the physical demands of cricket, especially in high-stakes matches. Iyer's progress will be closely monitored, and fans are hoping for a swift recovery.

In his new book, former England fast bowler Steven Finn opens up about the emotional struggles he faced during the 2013-14 Ashes tour. He reflects on how the phrase 'not selectable' affected him deeply, leading to a lasting impact on his mental health. This candid revelation is important as it highlights the often-overlooked mental challenges athletes face, encouraging a broader conversation about mental well-being in sports.

Ella Toone has expressed that England's upcoming match against Australia will be seen as a revenge game for the Matildas, following England's victory in the semi-finals of the recent World Cup. This adds an exciting layer to the match, as both teams are eager to prove themselves. The significance of this game lies not only in the rivalry but also in the chance for Australia to reclaim pride after their heartbreaking loss, making it a must-watch for football fans.

Kirk Herbstreit recently faced backlash for his comments about Carson Wentz, suggesting he misjudged the quarterback's abilities and potential. This criticism highlights the challenges sports analysts face in accurately assessing player performance, especially in a league as competitive as the NFL. Fans and commentators are discussing the implications of such misjudgments, as they can influence public perception and player careers. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for both fans and analysts alike.

As we dive into Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season, it's time to check out the latest kicker rankings for fantasy football. These rankings are crucial for players looking to optimize their lineups and gain an edge in their leagues. Knowing which kickers are performing well can make a significant difference in your team's success.

As we dive into Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season, it's time to check out the latest fantasy football defense rankings. These rankings are crucial for players looking to optimize their lineups and gain an edge in their leagues. Understanding which defenses are performing well can significantly impact your team's success, making this information essential for any fantasy football enthusiast.

As we dive into Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season, our FLEX rankings are here to help fantasy football enthusiasts make informed decisions. These rankings are crucial for players looking to optimize their lineups and gain an edge in their leagues. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, understanding these rankings can significantly impact your team's performance.

As we dive into Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season, it's time to check out the latest rankings for tight ends in fantasy football. These rankings are crucial for players looking to optimize their lineups and gain an edge in their leagues. Knowing which tight ends are performing well can significantly impact your team's success, making this information essential for any fantasy football enthusiast.

Rookie guard VJ Edgecombe of the Philadelphia 76ers is making headlines by scoring 75 points in his first three NBA games, surpassing the legendary Michael Jordan's rookie scoring record. This impressive start not only highlights Edgecombe's potential as a rising star in the league but also sets high expectations for his future performance. Fans and analysts are excited to see how he will continue to develop throughout the season.