Balad's departure from the Joint List is a very bad blow ■ Bibi's threat to the legal system gains pace ■ Lapid still has a chance to increase his showing in the Arab community

Two teams arrived at the field last night: One is crystalized, unified, totally tight. It has only one captain: experienced, unbridled, unrestrained, his back to the wall. He is raring for battle (his last, perhaps). Opposite, a motley collection of rival players is huddled. They are mainly one another’s rivals. They do not acknowledge the team leader. Some intentionally give him the cold shoulder. Some drag their feet. Others feel run down. And this is how they want to win.

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