Jack Norris 
Ireland and New Zealand are meeting for the first time in Test cricket. The four-day Test is Ireland’s first on home soil since they defeated Zimbabwe in July 2024. Ireland won the toss and opted to bowl first.
Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon has reportedly expressed a preference for a move to Barcelona, despite interest from Bayern Munich. Barcelona sporting director Deco has been seen in London as the club accelerates its summer recruitment. Gordon is under contract with Newcastle until 2030.
Kasper Schmeichel has retired from football at the age of 39 due to a serious shoulder injury. The Celtic and Denmark goalkeeper had been out of action since February. Schmeichel won the Scottish Premiership with Celtic in each of his two seasons at the club.
West Ham’s board are split on Nuno Espírito Santo’s future, opening the possibility of the manager staying after relegation from the Premier League. Nuno was called in for crisis talks on Monday and a decision is expected before the end of the week. Daniel Kretinsky wants Nuno to stay, but David Sullivan is less sure.
Tottenham Hotspur chief executive Vinai Venkatesham says the club needs a ‘complete reset’. He made the comments after a season where Tottenham battled to avoid relegation. Venkatesham also addressed the personal abuse he has faced from supporters.
Tadej Pogacar may be losing key domestiques to rival teams. Jonas Vingegaard has shut down Netcompany Ineos transfer talk in a retirement declaration. These developments could affect the Tour de France.
Arsenal have become English champions again. The Gunners are ending their 22-year existential crisis. A parade is planned to mark Arsenal’s Premier League title win.
The 2026 State of Origin opener between the NSW Blues and Queensland Maroons is set for Sydney’s Accor Stadium. Latrell Mitchell’s back injury could sideline him for a month, potentially affecting his availability for Origin II. The Blues are currently rated as favourites.
Joe Mazzulla has been named the 2026 NBA Coach of the Year. He led the Celtics to a 56-26 record, marking his fourth consecutive 50-win season with Boston. Mazzulla is the fourth Celtics coach to win the award.
Pep Guardiola’s farewell party at Manchester City featured tributes from figures like Michael Jordan. Guardiola is stepping down after a decade in charge, during which he led the club to 20 trophies. The event at Co-Op Live arena was attended by 19,000 supporters.