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Manchester is Diving Deeper into Augmented Reality—What’s Next For This Technology?

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Manchester is Diving Deeper into Augmented Reality—What’s Next For This Technology?

Manchester has been dabbling in augmented (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technology, using these innovations to create a unique, immersive experience. Gaming, museum experiences, and fashion have all benefited from this technology, but the use of AR and VR also goes beyond surface-level fun. For instance, Manchester’s leading tech companies are using AR and VR for their science and tech campus, Credersi World, to innovate the global education metaverse. Credersi and PixelMax aim to create a platform for reskilling workforces of the future in an immersive and engaging way, future-proofing talent as technology evolves rapidly.

As showcased by the work of Credersi and PixelMax, AR and VR present promising opportunities to solve challenges and create new experiences in various industries. But beyond holograms and the metaverse, here’s how AR and VR are emerging in daily life:

Smart glasses

Smart glasses have long seemed like out-of-touch technology only possible in science fiction, but more and more models are emerging, offering various features and functions. Ray-Ban and Meta collaborated on a new generation of smart glasses, taking the former’s expertise in eyewear innovation and design and combining them with the latter’s tech and communication prowess. The Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses enable high-quality photo and video taking as well as live streaming, all of which can be shared on Meta social media platforms. The smart glasses also look like a regular pair of sunglasses, allowing for a more subtle wearing experience that’s stylish and functional enough for everyday wear.

Many other smart glasses are also integrating augmented reality into their displays, offering an immersive and cutting-edge experience for wearers. The XREAL Air 2 Ultra smart glasses are the latest in the XREAL brand’s lineup of smart glasses, and it support full motion tracking (six degrees of freedom, or 6DoF), so the AR displays stay anchored whenever you move. Smart glasses allow for new, hands-off experiences that can seamlessly integrate tech into daily life.

AR fashion experiences

AR has become a massively useful tool in fashion, especially for online shopping. It helped fill in the gaps left by the lack of in-person experiences that e-commerce could not replicate through online means. AR-powered virtual try-on filters simulate the experience of wearing a product, allowing users to see how the item looks on them so they can make more informed purchases. Luxury fashion is also seeing the benefits of AR in business, not only for enhancing customer experiences but also for measuring brand performance and conversion.

Fashion houses like Dior are working on a catalogue of virtual products, enabling users to try on full outfits on Snapchat, and AR can offer access to experiences like fashion shows that can take people behind the scenes of the industry. With 72% of UK luxury fashion shoppers desiring more AR experiences when shopping, it’s expected that AR will increasingly become more integrated into the scene, potentially offering personalised style consultations, exploring runaway collections, and brand storytelling.

Enhancing visitor attractions

Visitor attractions are constantly aiming to create more immersive experiences that can engage visitors and compel them to return. AR has become a major visitor attraction trend for this reason, allowing guests to interact seamlessly with technology and the real world.

One example is Manchester’s Museum of Austerity, which uses AR to enhance the viewing experience, deepening emotional responses and connections to attractions. The museum uses 3D holograms to display actors portraying real people who suffered under the cruelty of the disability benefits system. Visitors can walk through the exhibit, making it feel more real and impactful compared to watching from a distance. AR can bring more captivating experiences for tourists or people seeking new and innovative approaches to attractions.

AR technology is rapidly evolving, and it’s expected that its use can go beyond personal products and experiences and extend to broader industries and locations. With Manchester being a dominant UK tech hub, residents and visitors may see more AR-driven innovations sooner rather than later.

A step-by-step guide to successful web development

Helen Greaney
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A step-by-step guide to successful web development

In business and creativity, a website stands as the digital canvas where your ideas and services meet the world. It’s the cornerstone of your online presence, a place where your brand breathes and interacts with your audience.

But how do you create a website that not only looks great but also performs well? This guide walks you through the essentials of successful web development, from concept to launch.

1. Understanding your budget: Web development costs in the UK

Budgeting is a vital step in the web development process. Let’s unravel this financial enigma.

Have you ever wondered how much it would cost to bring your digital vision to life? In the UK, the pricing landscape for website development is as varied as it is dynamic. For starters, you could choose a website builder, a cost-effective and user- friendly option, with plans commencing at a mere £2.59 per month.

This choice is ideal for those dipping their toes into the digital world without a hefty financial commitment​​.

However, if your aspirations soar higher, towards a custom-built digital masterpiece, the price trajectory shifts dramatically. Opting for a bespoke design, tailored by a web design company in Cardiff or elsewhere, could set you back anywhere from £4,000 to over £60,000​​.

This cost covers a range of services, from the initial design to the final touches that make your website uniquely yours. The question then becomes: what level of customisation and functionality do you desire, and how does that align with your budget?

2. Platform possibilities: A spectrum of choices

From DIY website builders to professional agencies, your platform choice shapes your site’s destiny. When embarking on your web development journey, selecting the right platform is akin to choosing the foundation for a building.

Do you go with the simplicity and ease of a website builder, or do you venture into the realm of custom development? Website builders like Wix and Squarespace offer a straightforward path, with plans ranging from £5 to £259 per month​​.

These platforms are the go-to for those seeking a quick launch with minimal technical intricacies. They provide a range of templates and drag-and-drop features, allowing you to craft a functional site without delving deep into coding.

Conversely, custom development, possibly through a web-development Cardiff based agency, offers a blank canvas for your digital dreams. This route is not just about building a website; it’s about crafting a unique digital identity.

Here, your ideas can be transformed into reality without the constraints of template designs. This bespoke approach, though more costly and time-consuming, results in a website that truly reflects your brand’s essence and meets specific business needs.

3. Designing for impact: Aesthetics meets functionality

How do you strike the perfect balance between a visually stunning site and one that
functions seamlessly? The design of your website is more than just its aesthetic appeal; it’s the embodiment of your brand’s story and values. A visually stunning site draws visitors in, but it’s the seamless functionality that turns them into loyal customers.

Here are some key considerations:
● Understanding your audience: Who are they? What do they expect from your site? The design should resonate with your target demographic, providing them with an intuitive and enjoyable experience.
● Visual harmony: Colours, fonts, and imagery should coalesce to create a visually appealing and coherent brand narrative. This doesn’t just captivate your audience; it reinforces brand recognition.
● Navigation and usability: An easily navigable site is crucial. A well- thought-out layout and clear, logical navigation paths ensure users can find what they need effortlessly.
● Responsive design: With the increasing use of mobile devices, your website must adapt gracefully to different screen sizes. A responsive design ensures your site looks and works great, regardless of the device used. By merging aesthetics with usability, your website becomes more than just a digital space; it transforms into an engaging, interactive experience for your visitors. A local web developer is always a good option as you can take help online or offline.

4. Content mastery: The lifeblood of your site

Engaging content is the heartbeat of any successful website. How do you ensure
yours stands out? The saying ‘Content is king’; remains as relevant today as ever. Your website’s content isn’t just text on a page; it’s the voice of your brand, the bridge that connects you to your audience. Here are some strategies to elevate your content game:

● Diversity in content types: Mix and match different content forms – blogs, videos, infographics, and podcasts. This variety caters to different user preferences and keeps your website dynamic and engaging.

● Quality over quantity: It’s tempting to constantly churn out content, but quality trumps quantity. Well-researched, thoughtfully crafted pieces resonate more with audiences and establish your credibility.

● SEO-driven yet human-centric: While incorporating keywords is essential for SEO, your primary focus should be on creating content that resonates with humans – your audience.

5. The SEO conundrum: Visibility in the digital age

How do you ensure your website is not just a needle in the digital haystack? Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is the art and science of making your website more visible and attractive to search engines like Google.

It’s not just about cramming in keywords; it’s about understanding and leveraging the algorithms that drive online visibility.

● Keyword integration: Strategically integrate keywords into your content. But remember, the integration should be natural, not forced.

● User experience (UX) optimisation: Search engines favour websites that provide a great user experience, including fast loading times, mobile responsiveness, and easy navigation.

● Regular updates and fresh content: Keeping your website updated with fresh, relevant content signals to search engines that your site is active and valuable to users.

6. Analytics and feedback: The power of data

How do you measure success and continually refine your website for better performance?
The journey of web development doesn’t end with the launch of your website. Continuous improvement, guided by data and feedback, is key.

● Analytics tools: Utilise tools like Google Analytics to understand visitor behaviour, traffic sources, and engagement patterns.

● Feedback loops: Encourage user feedback and conduct surveys. This direct input from your audience is invaluable for making user-centric improvements. By understanding and implementing these elements, your website can become not just a static digital brochure, but a dynamic, evolving platform that continually engages and grows with your audience.

The journey to digital success

In conclusion, web development is a journey that intertwines creativity with technical prowess. Whether you choose a DIY approach with a website builder or seek the expertise of a professional web design agency, each step towards building your website is a step towards amplifying your digital presence.

Remember, a website is not just a product; it’s an ongoing project that evolves with your business and audience. Keep it updated, relevant, and user-friendly, and watch your digital canvas come to life.

Nilesh Kabaria, the director of Head45 LTD in Cardiff Bay, is a passionate and experienced marketer. An expert brand strategist, he leads a team of talented digital marketing & technology enthusiasts who arduously work to help clients make it big in the digital world. He utilises his creative energy and experience to pen posts that are useful and enriching for the information-seeking readers.

Top bathroom tile trends of 2024 unveiled

Helen Greaney
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Top bathroom tile trends of 2024 unveiled

Interior design is a constantly changing field, with new trends and tastes emerging on a frequent basis.

As we enter 2024, attention turns to the bathroom, which serves as a haven for homeowners. This modest space will be redefined by this year’s tile trends, which promise a harmonious combination of style and utility.

Drawing inspiration from the pulse of the city, a prestigious tile showroom London has played a key role in defining these avant-garde trends, paving the way for a fusion of history and innovation in bathroom aesthetics.

1. Embracing nature: Organic textures and earthy tones

Who says the tranquility of a forest or the calmness of a beach can’t be encapsulated within the confines of your bathroom? 2024 is witnessing an upsurge in tiles that take a leaf out of nature’s book, quite literally.

Think textures that mimic the ruggedness of a rocky cliff or the soft undulations of a sandy shore. These tiles are not just about aesthetics; they’re about bringing an element of the outdoors into your home.

Earthy tones – think olives, umbers, and ochres – not only add warmth but also lend a sense of serenity to your space. These hues pair beautifully with natural materials like wood or bamboo, creating a cohesive, earth- friendly vibe. Remember, the goal is to create a space that feels like a personal retreat, a place where you can unwind and reconnect with nature.

2. Geometric intricacy: A bold statement

What’s your shape? This question might seem peculiar, but in the context of 2024’s tile trends, it’s quite pertinent. Geometric tiles are making a splash with their bold patterns and vibrant colours. However, incorporating them requires a careful approach.

Here are some tips:
● Start small: If you’re tentative about diving into geometric patterns, consider starting with a small area, like a backsplash or a feature wall.

● Balance is key: Pairing busy patterns with neutral, solid-coloured fixtures and fittings can create a harmonious balance.

● Mix and match with caution: While mixing different geometric patterns can add depth and interest to your space, it’s important to ensure the patterns complement rather than clash.

3. The luxe effect: Metallic and glossy finishes

As you step into a modern bathroom showroom London, you’ll notice a shimmer, a subtle glint that catches your eye. This is the luxe effect, brought to life by tiles with metallic and glossy finishes. But how do you incorporate this trend without overwhelming your space?

Here are a few considerations:
● Accentuate, don’t overwhelm: Use these tiles to accentuate certain areas of your bathroom. Consider them for a feature wall or as a border to highlight architectural details.

● Lighting matters: Metallic and glossy tiles reflect light, so consider your lighting fixtures and their placement. The right lighting can make your tiles sparkle, creating a captivating visual effect.

● Complement with matte: If you’re worried about your space looking too shiny, balance the gloss with matte textures. Matte fittings or a matte-painted wall can provide a beautiful contrast to metallic and glossy tiles.

4. Sustainability at the fore: Eco-friendly materials

In an era where every choice can impact the planet, selecting eco-friendly materials for your bathroom tiles isn’t just a trend, it’s a statement. These tiles aren’t just about looking good; they’re about feeling good too. They come from recycled glass, reclaimed ceramic, and even wood, each with its own story of sustainability. When considering these materials, think about:

● The origin: Learn about where and how the materials are sourced. Tiles made from locally sourced materials can reduce your carbon footprint.

● Durability and maintenance: Eco-friendly doesn’t mean high- maintenance. Look for options that are not only environmentally responsible but also durable and easy to care for.

● Pairing with other elements: Eco-friendly tiles pair wonderfully with other sustainable materials. Consider bamboo cabinets or a reclaimed wood mirror frame to complete the look.

5. Return to monochrome: Classic black and white

Black and white tiles offer a timeless elegance that can adapt to any style, from the ultra-modern to the nostalgically classic. This monochrome duo provides a canvas that allows other elements of your bathroom to shine. Here’s how you can make the most of this trend:

● Play with patterns: Black and white tiles offer the perfect opportunity to play with patterns without the risk of colour clashing. From checkerboard to herringbone, the possibilities are endless.

● Texture is Your friend: A glossy black tile paired with a matte white tile can add an interesting texture contrast, adding depth to your space.

● Accessorise wisely: The simplicity of black and white tiles means your choice of accessories can really make a statement. Consider a pop of colour with towels or a bold piece of wall art to inject personality into your bathroom.

Conclusion

As we unveil the top bathroom tile trends of 2024, it’s clear that personal expression, sustainability, and a nod to nature are at the forefront of design preferences. From the tactile allure of organic textures to the sophisticated sheen of metallic finishes, these trends promise to transform your bathroom into a space that resonates with your style and ethos.

Whether you’re planning a visit to a tile showroom in London or seeking inspiration from a bathroom showroom in London, the trends of 2024 offer a palette of possibilities to create your perfect bathroom sanctuary.

Brandon Peter is the Tile Installation Expert at Danny Deco, London. He’s the master of his trade and has always delivered the best and most satisfactory results to clients when it comes to tile installation. His expertise has been immensely helpful for the company in winning the trust of customers. He knows everything there is to know regarding tile installation and often shares his knowledge with the general
public through interesting and useful blog posts.

 

Smoking Gun delivers global brief for Aptia Group

Helen Greaney
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Smoking Gun delivers global brief for Aptia Group

New pensions and health and benefits administrator Aptia Group has appointed brand building agency Smoking Gun, to manage the global communications for its 2024 launch.

The announcement follows a deal funded by global private equity house, Bain Capital.

Acquiring Mercer’s UK pensions and US health and benefits administration businesses, Aptia will manage benefits for more than seven million people across 1,100 companies.

Having already led Aptia through a brand positioning programme, Smoking Gun is currently spearheading media relations and social media, with a focus in the UK and US, as well as a recruitment drive in India.

Aptia is led by a highly respected and experienced management team that includes Bala Viswanathan, CEO (pictured right) and Dominic Burke, chairman (pictured left) both of whom have worked at both Jardine Lloyd Thompson (JLT) and Marsh McLennan and have a proven track record of building businesses that deliver.

Viswanathan said: “It is time for a new way of thinking. While we’re inheriting the largest pension portfolio in the UK and the employee and benefits business in the US, we’re also committed to bringing a fresh perspective and demonstrating our genuine enthusiasm for administration.

“From Day One, our sole focus is on providing class-leading support.

“Smoking Gun embraces brands with a challenger mentality, and with the team’s intelligent and disruptive approach to B2B communications, they share our vision to turn away from the formulaic to revolutionise the experience for our clients.”

Key milestone

Caroline Aspinall, Smoking Gun’s commercial director and head of B2B, said: “As our B2B division continues to go from strength to strength, the appointment by Aptia marks a key milestone as we guide the global comms strategy to successfully launch this monumental start-up.

“Working with brands that are shaking up their categories is our passion, and Aptia’s technical expertise combined with its continual investment in strengthening client relationships is a very compelling proposition for 2024.”

Aptia joins Smoking Gun’s portfolio which includes B2B retail insights brand, Reapp, as well as brand giants PG Tips, Interflora and the NHS.

Leading specialist tax firm expands into Scotland with new tax director

Helen Greaney
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Leading specialist tax firm expands into Scotland with new tax director

Specialist tax consultancy Forbes Dawson has expanded into Scotland following the appointment of a new tax director.

Brona MacDougall (pictured left), who has worked in tax for 15 years, will head up the Manchester-based firm’s Scotland operations from Lismore in the Scottish Highlands.

An author of Bloomsbury tax guide Inheritance Tax in Scotland, the self-confessed “tax geek” will provide expert support in inheritance tax planning, trust and estate advisory, and international mobility, alongside bespoke personal and corporate tax planning.

The former doctor has sought changes to non-domicile and Additional Dwellings Supplement legislation in both the UK and Scotland, respectively, for unjustly disadvantaged clients. She has also spoken at a Women in Business event and to students.

Brona said she was excited about her new role with the firm, which launched in 2012.

“I love a new challenge and Forbes Dawson’s reputation as a leading private client tax specialist with its technical expertise and enthusiasm for knowledge-sharing perfectly suits my desire to provide innovative solutions to complex tax issues,” she said.

Joint managing partner Andrew Marr (pictured right) added that Brona’s diverse career journey provides a mix of drive, empathy and forging successful working relationships with her clients and contacts.

“As a firm, we advise business owners and their families across the whole of the UK and internationally,” he said.

“Not only will Brona’s unique background and extensive tax experience help us to manage the growing demand for our advisory services, but her expertise in Scottish taxes and complex estate matters will strengthen our offering throughout the UK.

“The appointment supports the company’s ambitious growth plans, opening the opportunity to extend its presence north of the border through the additional support to Scottish clients Brona can offer.”

Forbes Dawson is one of the North West’s largest independent, tax-only consultancies, providing expert advice and business support.

Founded by practitioners from some of the UK’s biggest accountancy firms, the team delivers bespoke and practical solutions to those with complex tax affairs, including high-net worth individuals.

Brona’s appointment marks a further milestone in the firm’s rapid expansion, with three graduate trainees joining last year.

Manchester’s oldest surviving archive collection saved by city council

Helen Greaney
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Manchester’s oldest surviving archive collection saved by city council

Greater Manchester’s oldest surviving archive collection has been saved for posterity by Manchester City Council.

The Assheton of Middleton estate archive collection, purchased by Manchester City Council, will now have a permanent home in the Greater Manchester County Record Office at Manchester Central Library.

This will ensure people continue to have access to this outstanding local history collection which sheds light on life in the medieval and early modern era.

Nationally important items relating to the English Civil War, the Middleton Bowmen, the Black Knight, and the royal court of the Plantagenets, as well as unique local history sources recording the local Middleton population can all be found within it.

The purchase of the 1400 items was made possible by generous funding support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, The V&A Purchase Fund, the Friends of the National Libraries and Manchester Central Library Development Trust.

The collection contains some fascinating items including the earliest surviving written document, the 1197 Articles of Agreement which divided lands within the Assheton estate between Roger de Middleton and William de Radcliffe in the Greater Manchester area. It was witnessed by ‘Adam, parson of Middleton’ so it is also the earliest evidence of a church in Middleton.

The Heritage Fund grant, made possible by National Lottery players, will also allow Archives+ to invest in the collection, developing a programme of education and outreach activities aimed at schools and local communities in Middleton, Rochdale, and Manchester.

Early heritage

Councillor John Hacking said: “After many years of hard work behind the scenes, we are immensely pleased to have finally secured the future of this nationally significant archive for the future of Greater Manchester and to be able to give it a permanent home with Greater Manchester County Record Office at Manchester Central Library. This is a fascinating and rich collection of documents showing colourful glimpses into medieval English life and is an important part of Greater Manchester’s early heritage.”

Helen Featherstone, director, England, North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund said: “We are delighted that, thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, this important collection will now have a permanent home. It is exciting to know that local people will be able to experience the archive and have a glimpse into Greater Manchester’s lesser known but rich medieval history, connecting with the heritage that is right on their doorstep.

“The North of England is the home to fascinating heritage, and we know it is a great way of bringing people together and furthering a sense of pride of place in communities.”

 

Matthew O’Sullivan, CEO of Subsidence Ltd, on their innovative and eco-friendly subsidence repair service

News Desk
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Matthew O’Sullivan, CEO of Subsidence Ltd, on their innovative and eco-friendly subsidence repair service
We’re keen to understand more about Subsidence Ltd. Could you briefly introduce what your company does?
Thank you. Subsidence Ltd is a specialist subsidence repair service available across the UK, including Manchester. We tackle the problem of subsidence in properties by using a non-invasive, eco-friendly resin injection technique. This method stabilises buildings without the need for traditional underpinning, which can be costly and disruptive.
Matthew, can you share with us the ethos behind Subsidence Ltd and your role as CEO?

Subsidence Ltd is built on a foundation of expertise and dedication to resolving the complex challenges of subsidence. As CEO, my role encompasses driving the strategic vision, ensuring we deliver safe and effective solutions. It’s about leadership that empowers innovation, especially in our use of non-invasive methods like resin injection for subsidence repair.

Subsidence is a topic of concern for many homeowners and businesses. How does it specifically impact Manchester?

Manchester, like many industrial cities, has a varied geological landscape, with some areas more prone to subsidence due to the type of soil and the legacy of historical mining activities. We see cases where older buildings, in particular, are affected by ground movement, and our goal is to address these with minimal impact on the property and the surrounding area.

What are the common signs of subsidence that property owners in Manchester should be aware of?

Signs to watch for include new or worsening cracks in walls, particularly around doors and windows, doors or windows sticking, and visible changes in level on floors. It’s crucial to seek professional advice if these symptoms are observed to prevent further damage.

Could you elaborate on how your approach benefits Manchester’s unique architectural heritage?

Our approach is respectful of the structural integrity and historical value of Manchester’s buildings. By using methods that don’t require excavation, we preserve the original features of properties while ensuring they’re safe and structurally sound.

With the growing awareness of environmental issues, what sustainable practices does Subsidence Ltd implement?

Sustainability is integral to our operation. We use materials and methods that reduce waste and energy consumption. For instance, our resin injection technique requires less material and has a smaller carbon footprint than traditional underpinning.

What trends do you see shaping the future of the construction and repair industry?

Sustainability and technology are the two biggest trends. We’re exploring how we can further integrate eco-friendly practices and digital advancements to stay ahead in providing top-tier subsidence repair services.

Finally, any advice for budding entrepreneurs in the construction sector?

Build a solid foundation of knowledge in your chosen field, stay adaptable, and don’t underestimate the importance of forming strong relationships with clients and partners. It’s these relationships that often determine the long-term success of your business.

Australian Open 2024, Day Four: Preview, how to watch, order of play and predictions

Harry Carr
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Australian Open 2024, Day Four: Preview, how to watch, order of play and predictions

The headliners

Day four at the Australian Open brings the start of the second round in the men’s and women’s singles draws, and a couple of home favourites are looking to upset the odds at Melbourne Park.

Alexei Popyrin secured an epic five-set win over then-world number nine Taylor Fritz in the second round of his home grand slam in 2023. Twelve months on, he is eyeing an even bigger scalp as he takes on 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Hearing date set for Manchester City charges, reveals Premier League chief
Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri joins Sevilla in loan-to-buy deal
Raducanu trusts in body again, says winning Australian Open return ‘just the beginning’

Djokovic has still not lost at the Australian Open since 2018, extending his incredible winning run at the event to 29 matches when he headlined Sunday’s opening night session against Dino Prizmic.

However, he did drop a set to the 18-year-old Croatian, who dragged his battle with Djokovic past the four-hour mark to make it the Serbian’s longest ever first-round match at a grand slam.

Might he feel the effects of that contest against Popyrin, who breezed through his own opener against fellow Australian Marc Polmans on Monday?

Popyrin will have been watching closely as another compatriot, Alex de Minaur, overcame Djokovic at the United Cup earlier in January, and the 24-year-old will ask his countryman for advice ahead of the match.

“I’ll definitely ask Alex,” Popyrin said. “I have to. I have to do my homework. I think for me, it’s about playing the way that I have to play and focusing more on myself than who is on the opposite side of the net.”

Meanwhile, fellow Aussie star Jordan Thompson will face the man Djokovic beat to clinch his 10th Australian Open crown last year, seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas.

Tsitsipas was due to face Matteo Berrettini in his opener on Monday, only for the Italian to withdraw with a right foot injury. Belgian lucky loser Zizou Bergs stepped in and took the first set, only for Tsitsipas to recover from that setback and clinch a 5-7 6-3 6-3 6-1 win.

Tsitsipas has won two of his three previous tour-level meetings with Thompson, though the Australian did win their last head-to-head contest at Indian Wells last year. Can he repeat the trick on Wednesday?

The subplots

Also on Wednesday’s order of play is an all-American meeting between Coco Gauff and Caroline Dolehide, with the former heavily backed for a tilt at the trophy after crushing Anna Karolina Schmiedlova in the first round.

Dolehide, though, could be a dangerous opponent, having shown her ability with a thrilling run to the Guadalajara Open final in September, downing the likes of Ekaterina Alexandrova and Sofia Kenin before losing to Maria Sakkari in the title match.

Gauff, however, has all the momentum of last year’s US Open triumph behind her and barely blinked in her opener, limiting her opponent to just two winners and a paltry 31 per cent of first-serve points won.

 

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With a potential third-round tie against 2021 US Open runner-up Leylah Fernandez at stake, expect to see more of the same from the next superstar of US tennis.

Elsewhere, Tomas Martin Etcheverry’s meeting with Gael Monfils looks an intriguing one after the Argentine dumped Andy Murray out in the first round. With a potential meeting with Djokovic at stake, both players will be desperate to progress.

Order of play – selected matches

Day session (from 00:00 UK time)

Jannik Sinner v Jesper de Jong

Caroline Dolehide v Coco Gauff

Alex de Minaur v Matteo Arnaldi

Gael Monfils v Tomas Martin Etcheverry

Night session (from 08:00 UK time)

Jordan Thompson v Stefanos Tsitsipas

Novak Djokovic v Alexei Popyrin

When and how to watch

The Australian Open is available to watch live on Discovery+ and Eurosport in the United Kingdom, with the next day session getting under way from 00:00 UK time on Wednesday morning. The night session is scheduled to take place from 8am.

Predictions

While Djokovic may have been expecting a smoother passage through to the second round, an extra day of rest should mean he is fully recovered from those exertions and raring to go again on Wednesday. Despite the support of the home crowd, we don’t expect Popyrin to cause the reigning champion any problems.

However, Thompson may hold out more hope of an upset against Tsitsipas. The Australian is in great form and saved three match points to stun Rafael Nadal at the Brisbane International earlier this month, and he may just take Wednesday’s contest to the distance.

Elsewhere, expect the likes of Gauff, De Minaur and Etcheverry to progress, but those looking for a vulnerable seed may cast a glance at the out-of-form Lorenzo Musetti against 19-year-old Luca Van Assche.

Date set for Manchester City hearing, reveals Premier League chief

Harry Carr
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Date set for Manchester City hearing, reveals Premier League chief

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has revealed a date has been set for a hearing over Manchester City’s 115 alleged breaches of the competition’s rules.

However, while being questioned at a select committee meeting of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, Masters declined to reveal when that hearing will take place.

Last February, City were charged with 115 breaches of a range of Premier League rules throughout a nine-year period between 2009 and 2018, during which they won the title three times.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Raducanu trusts in body again, says winning Australian Open return ‘just the beginning’
Manchester United midfielder Hannibal Mejbri joins Sevilla in loan-to-buy deal
Guardiola and Wiegman land coaching prizes at FIFA awards ceremony

Those alleged breaches were referred to an independent commission, with City denying the charges and welcoming the opportunity to put the matter to rest “once and for all” in a statement.

City’s alleged failure to comply with the competition’s laws has come under renewed focus in recent days, with both Everton and Nottingham Forest charged with breaching profit and sustainability rules during a four-year period running to the end of 2022-23 on Monday.

Both clubs are now in danger of being hit with severe punishments, which could include a points deduction for the current Premier League season.

Everton have already been deducted 10 points this campaign after an independent commission found them to have breached the same rules over the previous four-year assessment period, which ended in 2022. They are currently appealing against that sanction.

While many onlookers have compared the seemingly slow progress of the Premier League’s case against City with the expedited nature of the charges against Everton and Forest, Masters says the cases are entirely different.

Asked on Tuesday whether he could understand fans’ frustrations regarding the delays to City’s case being heard, Masters said: “I can but they are very different charges.

“If any club, whether they are the current champions or otherwise, had been found in breach of the spending rules for year 2023, they would be in exactly the same position as Everton or Nottingham Forest.

“The volume and character of the charges laid before Man City, which I cannot talk about at all, are being heard in a completely different environment.

“There is a date set for that proceeding. Unfortunately, I can’t tell you when that is but that is progressing.

“I can’t give any details on Man City beyond saying a date has been set, I can’t tell you when that date is.”

Chelsea are also under investigation after the Todd Boehly regime self-reported apparent financial irregularities concealed by previous owner Roman Abramovich, but Masters says the league is not yet ready to reveal the outcome of that probe.

“On Chelsea, as you know, the new owners came forward with information to the FA, UEFA and the Premier League about previous ownership and we’re still investigating that,” he said.

“We don’t announce the outcome of that until we have completed those investigations.”

Raducanu trusts in body again, says winning Australian Open return ‘just the beginning’

Harry Carr
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Raducanu trusts in body again, says winning Australian Open return ‘just the beginning’

Emma Raducanu believes there is more to come after her first-round victory over Shelby Rogers at the Australian Open, saying she finally trusts her body again after a frustrating spell on the sidelines.

Raducanu missed most of 2023 after undergoing wrist and ankle surgeries last May, sitting out three of the year’s four grand slams.

Almost 12 months on from her last major appearance, which came at the 2023 edition of the Australian Open, she made a triumphant return to Melbourne Park on Tuesday, seeing off Shelby in straight sets.

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The former US Open champion won a superb 91 per cent of points behind her first serve and didn’t concede a single break point in a dominant 6-3 6-2 success, against a player who she also beat en route to her stunning triumph at Flushing Meadows in 2021.

Speaking after the win, which teed up a second-round matchup against China’s Wang Yafan, Raducanu expanded on the work she had done to get back to peak condition.

“I do trust my body. I’ve done a lot of good work physically in the last few months,” she said. “The LTA have really helped me to build that foundation off the court and it’s just the beginning.

“I know there’s a lot of work to do. I do feel pretty comfortable in my body. It’s just about getting more matches under my belt and more familiarity with certain situations.”

Should Raducanu overcome Yafan on Thursday, she could tee up an enticing meeting with British number one Katie Boulter in the third round.

After her long stint on the sidelines, Raducanu was particularly keen to take in the energy of the Melbourne Park crowd, saying: “I think with it being my first grand slam match back, it is definitely a little bit extra sweet.

“People were watching from the gangways and the stadium was pretty full. I saw a lot of ‘Emma’ signs and heard a lot.

“It was very loud out there and I’m honestly so appreciative because I really missed that feeling of playing and interacting with the crowd.

“After the match I just wanted to really spend some time with them. I enjoy it and I definitely missed it while I was away.”

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