World Cup free agent XI: summer bargains and top targets among clubless players

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has announced his retirement from T20 international cricket, ending a celebrated career in the format. Maxwell was a key part of Australia’s 2021 T20 World Cup triumph and is known for his explosive batting. His exit marks the end of an era for Australia’s T20 setup.

Detroit Lions player Jack Campbell remains hospitalized after a “scary” neck injury, with the team saying initial signs are positive. The injury raises concerns for Campbell’s health and the Lions’ lineup as he continues to be evaluated.

Roku reported a strong third quarter, with sales climbing 24% year over year, according to Variety. The company credited its fastest growth in media and entertainment advertising spending in four years. The results signal that streaming ad budgets are recovering, a positive sign for the broader connected-TV ad market.

FIFA has agreed to share confidential documents concerning a controversial World Cup sell-off plan. The move is likely to increase scrutiny of the proposal and FIFA’s decision-making. It matters because it could affect transparency and trust around the tournament’s commercial arrangements.

Guardian sport columnist Greg Wood argues that the betting regulations around Australia’s Melbourne Cup offer lessons for the UK. He suggests these rules could help British authorities prevent an boom in illegal gambling. The comparison matters as UK policymakers weigh how to regulate betting markets more effectively.