Shorts: EFL, Tim Percival, London Spirit
The English Football League (EFL) has named DIY brand Gorilla as the new broadcast sponsor of the Carabao Cup on Sky Sports.
The agreement will cover the 2025/26 season, with Gorilla’s branding to feature across all of Sky Sports’ live coverage of the competition.
The deal includes five and 15-second idents before, during, and after every match, from the first round to the final at Wembley.
The creative will focus on Gorilla’s Waterproofing range and will incorporate the brand’s humorous style.
All Carabao Cup matches throughout the 2025/26 season will be shown live on Sky Sports, giving the brand exposure to millions of fans.
Ben Wright, Chief Commercial Officer at the EFL, said, “It is testament to the success and popularity of the EFL that global brands such as Gorilla want to be associated with our competitions.
“Gorilla’s distinctive brand personality and bold approach make them a great fit for the Carabao Cup, a competition that continues to deliver excitement and drama. With every match shown live on Sky Sports, this partnership offers a creative way to connect with fans throughout the season.”
Tim Percival has published ‘On the Record and On the Ball: How Elite Coaches Master the Media.’
Released by Fairfield Books on 28th August 2024, the book focuses on the strategies coaches use to navigate interviews, crisis situations, criticism, and media attention in high-performance sport.
Drawing on interviews with 30 prominent coaches, including UK-based figures such as Graham Potter, alongside international names like Ange Postecoglou, Charlotte Edwards, Warren Gatland, and Guenther Steiner, Percival offers insights into media management from multiple perspectives.
Copies have been made available for pre-order via Fairfield Books.
Tim Percival said, “A huge thanks to the amazing coaches and journalists who generously shared their stories and insights – this book wouldn’t exist without you. And to everyone else who helped along the way, your support means a lot.
“Also, a big shoutout to Fairfield Books for believing in the project and helping bring it to life. If you work in leadership, communications, media, or study these areas, I hope it finds a place on your reading list.”
London Spirit has confirmed that it will retain its name as the franchise has appointed Mo Bobat as Director of Cricket effective 1st October.
Mo Bobat has been appointed as Director of Cricket, joining from his recent role with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League and after serving as Performance Director for England’s men’s cricket teams.
The franchise has transitioned to private ownership with Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) holding a 51% stake and US-based tech investment group Tech Titans acquiring 49%. This move aligns with the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) updated strategy for The Hundred, confirmed in July 2025, where all eight franchises have moved to private ownership.
London Spirit’s name will continue to represent London’s cricketing heritage, diversity, and energy. A new brand identity is scheduled for launch in early 2026 to reflect the franchise’s updated ownership structure and ambitions, while honouring the legacy of MCC and Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Mo Bobat’s appointment marks the first significant leadership change ahead of the 2026 season, with plans to develop a high-performance environment for the team as The Hundred evolves under new ownership arrangements.
Mo Bobat, London Spirit Director of Cricket, said, “It’s an honour to join London Spirit at such an exciting time. The opportunity to shape the cricketing future of this franchise, working with MCC and our new partners, the Tech Titans, is incredibly exciting. I’m looking forward to building something special—on and off the field.”
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