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From Nathan Lyon dropping the ball at Headingley to Shane Warne's 700th Test wicket. From Steve Smith's century on return from his ban to Steve Harmison's first ball wide at the Gabba - what is the ultimate Ashes moment? Isa Guha, Sir Alastair Cook, and Jonathan Agnew debate their top 10 Ashes moments.
In this episode, Tamara and Classy reflect on their reading journey throughout 2025, discussing the highs and lows of their buddy reads. They review several books, including 'The Return of Ellie Black', 'The Best Lies', 'What Lies Between Us', 'The God of the Woods', and 'The Ghost Writer', sharing their thoughts on character development, plot twists, and overall enjoyment.Ep 555Find all the essential links in one spot and follow Tamara!Connect with Tamara on social media:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/shelfaddiction/TikTok | @shelfaddictionConnect with Classy on social media:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/thebookishvirtualassistantTikTok | @classygreen1Join the SAO book club on BookClubs: https://bookclubs.com/shelf-addiction-book-club/join/Check out our sponsors and deals!
Hi team,It's been a busy festive season, so apologies for the late schedule update, but here it is!We'll be recording episode 112 on the 4th of Jan which means it'll reach you lovely people on the 9th/10th of January. So grab Knife of Dreams, read chapters 19 through 22 and chime in!Cheers, and happy holidays from the Blood and Ashes team!
Irish American writer Frank McCourt wrote a book in 1996 that was on the New York Times bestseller list for over 100 weeks. Over the next 20 years, "Angela's Ashes" sold close to 10 million copies worldwide. It was translated into 24 languages. McCourt was born in New York City, but moved with his family to Limerick, Ireland, for his childhood years. Frank McCourt died at age 78 in 2009 of melanoma cancer. He was a guest on the Booknotes television program on September 19th, 1996. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Irish American writer Frank McCourt wrote a book in 1996 that was on the New York Times bestseller list for over 100 weeks. Over the next 20 years, "Angela's Ashes" sold close to 10 million copies worldwide. It was translated into 24 languages. McCourt was born in New York City, but moved with his family to Limerick, Ireland, for his childhood years. Frank McCourt died at age 78 in 2009 of melanoma cancer. He was a guest on the Booknotes television program on September 19th, 1996. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Menners is joined by Victorian sportswriter Jono Baruch to dissect the fallout from a deeply flawed Boxing Day Test that ended in just two days. While England's win is acknowledged as legitimate, the focus quickly turns to the pitch, the loss of spectacle, and the wider consequences for Australian cricket. They examine why the MCG surface failed Test cricket, the financial and broadcast impact of short matches, and whether Australia's push for result wickets has gone too far. The discussion then shifts to the Australian team's looming transition, including hard questions around Marnus Labuschagne's form, Usman Khawaja's future, Cameron Green's role, and whether Travis Head has finally locked down the opening position. (01:05) England's Boxing Day win — legitimate result or hollow victory?(05:55) Bazball, bad pitches, and why this Test changed nothing(10:05) Why the MCG pitch became the real story(19:45) Has Australia gone too far with bowler-friendly wickets?(30:10) Australia's batting concerns: Marnus Labuschagne under pressure(38:40) Khawaja, Green, Head — and what the next Test team might look like Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We've launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show.
BookTube and BookTok hype is everywhere—but does it actually deliver?Some books explode across BookTube and BookTok and become completely unavoidable. Everyone's talking about them. Everyone's recommending them. And everyone assumes they must be incredible.But experience says… that's a coin toss.In this episode, Jim breaks down the Top 10 “BookTube & BookTok Famous” SFF novels he actually liked, ranked from a much larger Top 100 list based on how dominant these books were across online book communities—not just how “good” they're supposed to be.You'll hear:
Yas is joined by Matt Roller to discuss England's T20 World Cup squad.
Eleanor Oldroyd is joined by Stephan Shemilt and Henry Moeran for news from Melbourne, including England injury updates. Plus, an interview with two of Shane Warne's children.
Every weekday during the 2025-26 Ashes, comedian and statistician Andy Zaltzman poses new a cricketing conundrum. It won't be easy though. You might want to take it away, share in your group chats and challenge your friends. Andy will reveal the answer the following day.Test Match Special has live commentary on BBC Sounds with a team including Jonathan Agnew, Simon Mann and Jim Maxwell. England's 2005 Ashes-winning captain Michael Vaughan, legendary Australia seamer Glenn McGrath and ex-England spinners Phil Tufnell and Alex Hartley will be part of the punditry team.
To round out a massive year, Howie gives his take on his highlights of the Howie Games in 2025. The moments, the laughs, the honesty and the champions that made it such a special year. From eight-time world champion Steph Gilmore, to one of Australia’s brightest young stars, Oscar Piastri, ahead of a huge year at McLaren. Premiership coach Chris Fagan and NRL Immortal Wally Lewis. There were laughs and unbelievable stories with Jason “Dizzy” Gillespie, powerful lessons in resilience with Alex Carey, and one of the most raw and impactful episodes in Howie Games history with Stuart MacGill. Plus, the Howie Games Diaries came to life, with Scott Pendlebury opening up on his 20th pre-season, Joe McGuire taking us inside the Ohio State Buckeyes, and Mitch Starc and Alex Carey delivering an all-access, never-heard-before countdown to the Ashes. If you’ve missed any of these, now’s the time. Perfect listening for the holidays, whether you’re on the road, in the gym or getting things done around home. All links and episodes here: Episode 229: Steph Gilmore Episode 234: Oscar Piastri Episode 233: Chris Fagan Episode 238: Wally Lewis Episode 240: Jason Gillespie Episode 243: Stuart MacGill See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode, past guests of Books with Betsy and I share our favorite books of 2025! Listen to hear about lots of great 2025 books and the excellent backlist we got to this year. Books mentioned in this episode: Betsy's Best Categorically (books that…): Shocked me: It's Not the End of the World by Jonathan Parks-Ramage Sky Full of Elephants by Cebo Campbell Made me Cry: The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai Are You Happy? By Lori Ostlund Underrated: Fundamentally by Noussaibah Younis What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown Recommend Widely: There is No Place For Us: Working and Homeless in America by Brian Goldstone Isola by Allegra Goodman Hard to Recommend: King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby Flesh by David Szalay Made me Think About my Life Differently: Uzumaki by Junji Ito Hunchback by Saou Ichikawa Books Highlighted by Guests: Deedi Brown: The Everlasting by Alix E. Harrow Telephone by Percival Everett Searches: Selfhood in the Digital Age by Vauhini Vara Francisco Rafael Peralta-Cerda: Grace and Henry's Holiday Movie Marathon by Matthew Norman Displacement by Kiku Hughes Yellowface by R.F. Kuang Chloe Waryan: The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones The Secret History by Donna Tartt Woodworking by Emily St. James Poor Things by Alasdair Gray Jess Abra Sandy: How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix Don't Let the Forest In by C.G. Drews Soft Science & Other Poems by Franny Choi Time is a Mother by Ocean Vuong Shakia Perry: Issac's Song by Daniel Black King of Ashes by S.A. Cosby Zeal by Morgan Jerkins Can't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan Chelsey Stone: The Princes of Ireland by Edward Rutherfurd Creatures of Passage by Morowa Yejidé Deirdre Harrison: Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer Motherhood: Facing and Finding Yourself by Lisa Marchiano The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley Chirri & Chirra: The Snowy Day by Kaya Doi & Yuki Kaneko The Red Fruit by Lee Gee Eun Red Sled by Lita Judge Jordan Hernandez: This is Your Mother by Erika J. Simpson The Girls Who Grew Big by Leila Mottley Loca by Alejandro Heredia Liv Hoselton: Everything is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection by John Green A Noble Madness: The Dark Side of Collecting from Antiquity to Now by James Delbourgo Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton Frankenstein by Mary Shelly A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens Leah Rachel von Essen: And the Band Played On: Politics, People, and the AIDS Epidemic by Randy Shilts Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert One Day Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This by Omar El Akkad A Day of Fallen Night by Samantha Shannon
Danny Kelly and Darren Ambrose come together for the very first time on a jam-packed show, reflecting on the past year in sport! The pair discuss their worst moments, biggest surprises and biggest disappointments, before Darren reveals his top three sporting moments of the year and both share their wishlists for 2026.Former England cricketer Alex Tudor then joins the show to break down the latest from the Ashes, after England finally won a Test match in Australia for the first time since 2011.Next up, European football expert Andy Brassell rounds up the biggest stories from across the continent, including one of the most dramatic Serie A title races in recent memory. Can Antonio Conte really win back-to-back Scudetto's? Plus, the boys unexpectedly bond over their shared love of LEGO.To wrap things up, British tennis player Liam Broady gives his take on the controversial “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition between Nick Kyrgios and Aryna Sabalenka. Did the match help grow the game, or did it undermine women's tennis? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
England came out on top in another two-day Test match as the tourists chased down 175 at the MCG. Max Rushden is joined by Geoff Lemon, Barney Ronay and Ali Martin to discuss England's first Test win in Australia for nearly 15 years
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.What happens when a romance author leans fully into the dark, twisty world of thrillers—but keeps the emotional payoff readers crave? In this episode, I'm joined by Mia Sheridan to talk about her evolution from emotional romance to romantic thrillers—and why this hybrid genre works so well for readers who want suspense and heart.We dig into her latest release The Fix, how she builds layered mysteries with romantic soft landings, and why trauma-forward stories can still be deeply comforting when handled with care. We also rewind to some unforgettable '90s reading staples that shaped her as a reader and writer.If you love popcorn thrillers, romantic suspense, or books that push you forward while still offering hope, this episode is for you.
Stuart Broad joins Nas and Ath at the MCG on what should have been day four of the Melbourne Test! They reflect on England - finally - winning a Test in Australia, but react to another two-day match. Broad gives us his assessment of what's gone well - and not so well - during this tour, shares his thoughts on the future of Stokes and McCullum, and looks ahead to the final Test in Sydney.We'll have pods for you every day of play during the Ashes, so if you don't already, give this show a follow so you don't miss a moment. Thanks for listening to us in 2025! This podcast is brought to you by Tourism Western Australia. Western Australia offers unforgettable experiences, whether it's unique wildlife encounters, scenic road trips or exceptional food and wine, Western Australia has something for everyone. Plan your trip with a Flight Centre Travel Expert today at flightcentre.co.uk (https://bit.ly/WAFlightCentre)Watch every episode of the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on YouTube here: Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on YouTubeListen to every episode of the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast here: skysports.com/sky-sports-cricket-podcastYou can listen to the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on your smart speaker by saying "ask Global Player to play Sky Sports Cricket Podcast".Join in the debate on Twitter @SkyCricket.For all the latest Cricket news, head to skysports.com/cricketFor advertising opportunities or to get in touch with the pod email: skysportspodcasts@sky.uk
BP boys catch up on all things in the world of cricket, including the U19 Asia Cup, The Ashes, and Pakistan players at the BBL.Use code "BP15" for an exclusive 15% off your purchase at Yashi Sports: https://www.yashisports.com
ENGLAND SECURES SURPRISE VICTORY AMIDST ASHES CONTROVERSY Colleague Jeremy Zakis. Zakisreports that England unexpectedly won the fourth Ashes test despite playing poorly earlier in the series. The match ended quickly, causing controversy regarding the Melbourne pitch and accusations of poor play on both sides. Commentators blame England's aggressive "Bazball" style and lack of technical skill for previous losses. Conversely, Australianbowlers are praised for successfully mixing brute force with technical precision to dismantle English batting throughout the contest. 1862 ASHES AT MELBOURNE
The Ashes Daily 2025, 4th Test, Melbourne Day 3 wrap: The whole country is fixated on one thing: 22 yards of grass in the middle of the MCG, and how it came to influence an Ashes series. Head curator Matt Page had to turn out for a post-match press conference with the head of the MCC, Stuart Fox, such was the need for damage control. Was it really the pitch's fault? And either way, what does this mean for the future prospects of Test cricket? Adam and Geoff get together after a night off to chew through it all. Get your copy of Bedtime Tales for Cricket Tragics: linktr.ee/tfwbook Support the show with a Nerd Pledge at patreon.com/thefinalword Stop snoring with 5% off a Zeus device: use code TFW2025 at zeussleeps.com Get yourself some lovely BIG Boots UK, with 10% off at this link: https://www.bigboots.co.uk/?ref=thefinalword Try the new Stomping Ground Final Word beer, or join Patreon to win a case: stompingground.beer Maurice Blackburn Lawyers - fighting for workers since 1919: mauriceblackburn.com.au Get your big NordVPN discount: nordvpn.com/tfw Get 10% off Glenn Maxwell's sunnies: t20vision.com/FINALWORD Find previous episodes at finalwordcricket.com Title track by Urthboy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dharmesh Sheth is joined by Mark Ogden, John Cross and Jason Burt to reflect on the weekend's sporting action.We start with Arsenal's hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brighton, sealed by a stunning David Raya save, that kept them top of the league. But are Arsenal beginning to feel the pressure?The focus then shifts to The Ashes, where England finally claimed a Test win in Australia—but John believes it was a hollow victory played out on a dreadful pitch.Next up is Aston Villa's superb run of eleven consecutive wins. A 2–1 victory at Stamford Bridge has moved them to within three points of league leaders Arsenal—but with Unai Emery's side consistently outperforming their xG, can they keep this run going?Finally, we turn to Liverpool's 2–1 victory over bottom-of-the-table Wolves. With his first league goal of the season, we ask: has the real Florian Wirtz arrived in the Premier League?Sunday Supplement is a Sky Sports podcast. Listen to every episode here: skysports.com/sunday-supplementYou can listen to Sunday Supplement on your smart speaker by saying "ask Global Player to play Sunday Supplement".For all the latest football news, head to skysports.com/footballFor advertising opportunities or to get in touch email: skysportspodcasts@sky.uk
Butch and Yas reflect on England's victory at the MCG, their first in Australia for nearly 15 years.
Brett Lee has been unveiled as the latest inductee into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame at the MCG this morning, he jumped into the commentary box to chat with Ben Cameron after the announcement.
After his first Test in four years, Australian fast bowler Jhye Richardson joined Corbin Middlemas on Summer Grandstand to recap the Boxing Day Test.
Corbin Middlemas caught up with Australian All Rounder Cam Green, after the Boxing Day test ended inside two days.
With the Boxing Day test ending in two days, Cricket Australia put on a fan fest outside the MCG. Corbin Middlemas went down and spoke to Australian Quick Mitch Starc for his thoughts.
Corbin Middlemas and Ben Cameron are back to break down all the fallout from another two-day Test. Stuart Clark, Jason Gillespie and Ali Mitchell all stop by, and Brett Lee chats about his induction into the Hall of Fame.
From Ashes to Ascent “A Story of Strength, Survival, and Unshakeable Hope”: Volume I Born to Fight and Win! by Amy Granit https://www.amazon.com/Ashes-Ascent-Strength-Survival-Unshakeable/dp/1326371096 VOLUME I “Born to Fight and Win!”A child of war. A mother's pain. A daughter's courage. Volume I of From Ashes to Ascent reveals Mara's earliest years—years shaped by the shadows of World War II and the unforgiving realities of a devastated Soviet Union. Born as bombs fell and fathers disappeared, Mara grows up in poverty-stricken barracks, surrounded by hunger, cold, and cruelty. Her mother, broken by grief and loss, becomes both caregiver and tormentor—leaving Mara to navigate a childhood marked by fear, confusion, and emotional isolation. Yet beneath her frail exterior lives a fighter. Whether standing up to her mother's violence, facing the brutal cold of Kazakhstan winters, or carving out moments of joy amid deprivation, Mara discovers her inner strength long before she understands its meaning. In this gripping and emotional first volume, Amy Granit paints a vivid portrait of a girl growing up in a world where survival is an act of defiance—and hope is a victory in itself. Themes: • Post-war trauma • Childhood resilience • Soviet history & village life • Abuse, healing, and identity • The will to rise above one's circumstances
The Ashes Daily 2025, 4th Test, Melbourne Day 2: Once again, we are left to survey a field of smoking wreckage and ask, what the hell was that? Another two-day Test, another bowler-fest, and a closing flurry of some of the most insane attempts at shot-making you will ever see in the long form of the game. How do we make sense of that? But among the chaos, history was made. Get your copy of Bedtime Tales for Cricket Tragics: linktr.ee/tfwbook Support the show with a Nerd Pledge at patreon.com/thefinalword Stop snoring with 5% off a Zeus device: use code TFW2025 at zeussleeps.com Get yourself some lovely BIG Boots UK, with 10% off at this link: https://www.bigboots.co.uk/?ref=thefinalword Try the new Stomping Ground Final Word beer, or join Patreon to win a case: stompingground.beer Maurice Blackburn Lawyers - fighting for workers since 1919: mauriceblackburn.com.au Get your big NordVPN discount: nordvpn.com/tfw Get 10% off Glenn Maxwell's sunnies: t20vision.com/FINALWORD Find previous episodes at finalwordcricket.com Title track by Urthboy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
England have finally won a Test in Australia — but on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test, the result is overshadowed by a surface that turned the match into a two-day lottery. This episode breaks down how a disastrous MCG pitch distorted the contest, cost Cricket Australia millions, and robbed fans of what should be a marquee Test match. It covers Australia's batting collapse, England's aggressive chase, key moments across both innings, and why this Test may be remembered less for the scoreline and more for the fallout — from pitch preparation failures to the broader consequences for Australian cricket. (1:06) England finally win a Test in Australia — and why it feels hollow (4:03) The MCG pitch disaster and how it shaped the match (7:29) The numbers that show just how extreme this Test was (10:00) Day 2 recap: Australia collapse, England chase 175 Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We've launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show.
After 14 years, England finally got over the line in an away Ashes Test. Cameron Ponsonby and Yas on the second day at the MCG. RIVERSTONE LIVING We are proud to have partnered with Riverstone Living for our Ashes Daily podcast! From beautiful London apartments to five-star service and a thriving community, Riverstone is all about staying independent and inspired. Get in touch with them for a tour today: https://www.riverstoneliving.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nasser and Athers look back on the 2nd - and final - day's play of the 4th Ashes Test between Australia and England in Melbourne.With the Ashes already lost, England sealed a four wicket victory to claim their first Test match win in Australia since 2011.Watch every episode of the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on YouTube here: Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on YouTubeListen to every episode of the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast here: skysports.com/sky-sports-cricket-podcastYou can listen to the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on your smart speaker by saying "ask Global Player to play Sky Sports Cricket Podcast".Join in the debate on Twitter @SkyCricket.For all the latest Cricket news, head to skysports.com/cricketFor advertising opportunities or to get in touch with the pod email: skysportspodcasts@sky.uk
England finally broke their drought in Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, but the speed of the win caught everyone off guard. Corbin and Ed unpack a Boxing Day Test that raced from first ball to result in just two days, with Ed capturing the feeling around the ground simply: “It felt deflating.”England's win was shaped by standout individual performances. Josh Tongue earned Player of the Match after spearheading Australia's first-innings collapse, with Brydon Carse and Gus Atkinson providing key support. In the chase, Jacob Bethell steadied the innings before Harry Brook closed out the win. For Australia, Scott Boland again impressed, while Travis Head and Alex Carey offered resistance with the bat.Despite the constant action, Ed reckoned that “some things in life are best enjoyed slowly,” and this match “didn't get time to breathe,” with Corbin describing it as a contest where “the result arrived before the story.” England took the points. Corbin and Ed look ahead to what comes next.ABC Grandstand cricket commentator Corbin Middlemas is joined by Ed Cowan to bring you all the highlights and match analysis to keep you up to speed. The pair discuss the key players and big issues that are dominating the cricket agenda. Whether it's Ashes results, the latest in live fixtures or you just need a hit of cricket banter.Catch every episode of ‘The ABC Cricket Podcast,' hosted by Corbin Middlemas on ABC listen or wherever you get your podcasts, and get in touch with them on social media via @abc_sport This podcast was formerly known as ‘The Grandstand Cricket Podcast'
Jon Norman is joined by the former England fast bowler Steve Harmison to look back at the fourth Test between Australia and England at the MCG, as England end their 15-year wait for an away Ashes victory, with a 4-wicket win inside two days at Melbourne. They discuss whether the pitch was good enough to host Test Match Cricket, reflect on what a win will do for this England side, and they hear from the England captain Ben Stokes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ben Cameron caught up with Australian All-Rounder Kim Garth at the tea break on Day 2 of the Melbourne Test.
Hard Quiz Host and Gold Logie Winner Tom Gleeson joined Ben Cameron on Grandstand at Lunch, and brought an absolute chaos with him. Brooke Warne then dropped by to chat about the Shane Warne Legacy.
It's Mailbag Friday! You've got questions, we've got answers. Segment 1 • What's your take on Molinism? - Lora • Is there a biblical difference between our heart and our soul? - Anonymous • Are there theological implications to wearing our loved one's ashes, like in jewelry? - Renae Segment 2 • Do you think block parties are an appropriate method of evangelism? - Zachary • Is it suitable for women to assume church leadership roles if there are no men available? - Zoe • Is it okay for Christians to kiss before they're married, like when they're dating? - Jachin Segment 3 • Can you baptize yourself if no one else is around? - Joe • Bagpipes vs. pipe organs—does one glorify God more than the other? - Kayla Segment 4 • If God's grace is irresistible, do my bad attitudes even matter? - Anonymous • Is it wrong to ask God to use suffering to save someone? - Grace • Should I force my teen to read the Bible—or let them choose willingly? - David ___ Thanks for listening! Wretched Radio would not be possible without the financial support of our Gospel Partners. If you would like to support Wretched Radio we would be extremely grateful. VISIT https://fortisinstitute.org/donate/ If you are already a Gospel Partner we couldn't be more thankful for you if we tried!
The Ashes Daily 2025, 4th Test, Melbourne Day 1: What a ridiculous day. For years Melbourne was the most boring pitch in the country, but there will be plenty of questions after it saw an even more chaotic opening day than the Test in Perth. Blame the surface or the batting? That's up to you. But in this ten-pin-bowling Test match, both teams are well in it. Get your copy of Bedtime Tales for Cricket Tragics: linktr.ee/tfwbook Support the show with a Nerd Pledge at patreon.com/thefinalword Stop snoring with 5% off a Zeus device: use code TFW2025 at zeussleeps.com Get yourself some lovely BIG Boots UK, with 10% off at this link: https://www.bigboots.co.uk/?ref=thefinalword Try the new Stomping Ground Final Word beer, or join Patreon to win a case: stompingground.beer Maurice Blackburn Lawyers - fighting for workers since 1919: mauriceblackburn.com.au Get your big NordVPN discount: nordvpn.com/tfw Get 10% off Glenn Maxwell's sunnies: t20vision.com/FINALWORD Find previous episodes at finalwordcricket.com Title track by Urthboy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Tune in for our immediate reaction to the unprecedented chaos on Day 1 of the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)! Twenty wickets tumbled in a single day of Test cricket for the first time since 1950, as both Australia and England were skittled on a lively, green-top pitch. Join our expert panel as we dissect the sensational bowling performances, the batting collapses, and the controversial pitch that has everyone talking on this "Boxing Day Massacre In Melbourne - Ashes Fourth Test - Day One" podcast episode. We deep-dive into Josh Tongue's five-wicket haul, Michael Neser's superb spell, and the dramatic moments as England collapsed to 110 all out after skittling Australia for just 152 in front of a record-breaking MCG crowd. Was it a fair contest between bat and ball, or was the pitch doing too much? We bring you all the key insights, expert analysis, and a post-mortem of a bonkers Boxing Day that has set up a thrilling, fast-forwarded Test match. Don't miss this essential cricket podcast to stay up-to-date with the latest Ashes news and action. Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6313687373840384 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
A jaw-dropping Day 1 at the MCG saw 20 wickets fall in front of a record Boxing Day crowd, with both Australia and England bowled out in a single day on a controversial, grass-laden pitch. Menners breaks down how Australia were skittled for 152, England collapsed for 110 in just 2.5 hours, and why the state of the surface has put Cricket Australia and the MCG under serious scrutiny. From selection calls and captaincy criticism to standout bowling performances and the wider implications for the Test and the series, this is a furious, forensic wrap of one of the wildest opening days in Ashes history. (0:56) Record Boxing Day crowd, 20 wickets fall, and immediate reaction to a surreal opening day (4:14) Pitch controversy: grass length, curator decisions, and why this Test is racing toward an early finish (9:53) Australia bowled out for 152: key dismissals, partnerships, and batting failures (10:44) England implode for 110: selection calls, Bazball criticism, and bowling dominance Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We've launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show.
20 wickets fell on the opening day of a chaotic Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Matt Roller and Yas on the first day at the MCG. RIVERSTONE LIVING We are proud to have partnered with Riverstone Living for our Ashes Daily podcast! From beautiful London apartments to five-star service and a thriving community, Riverstone is all about staying independent and inspired. Get in touch with them for a tour today: https://www.riverstoneliving.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nas and Ath are at the MCG to review the action from a "bizarre" 1st day of the 4th Ashes Test between Australia and England in Melbourne.aWatch every episode of the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on YouTube here: Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on YouTubeListen to every episode of the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast here: skysports.com/sky-sports-cricket-podcastYou can listen to the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on your smart speaker by saying "ask Global Player to play Sky Sports Cricket Podcast".Join in the debate on Twitter @SkyCricket.For all the latest Cricket news, head to skysports.com/cricketFor advertising opportunities or to get in touch with the pod email: skysportspodcasts@sky.uk
Australia batted twice on day one of the Boxing Day Test as chaos reigned at the MCG. Corbin and Ed unpack a day that moved too fast, exposed modern batting under pressure, and ended with Scott Boland improbably opening the batting before stumps.Test cricket, on fast-forward.ABC Grandstand cricket commentator Corbin Middlemas is joined by Ed Cowan to bring you all the highlights and match analysis to keep you up to speed. The pair discuss the key players and big issues that are dominating the cricket agenda. Whether it's Ashes results, the latest in live fixtures or you just need a hit of cricket banter.Catch every episode of ‘The ABC Cricket Podcast,' hosted by Corbin Middlemas on ABC listen or wherever you get your podcasts, and get in touch with them on social media via @abc_sport This podcast was formerly known as ‘The Grandstand Cricket Podcast'
The Ashes Daily 2025, 4th Test, Melbourne Day 0: It's been four years since Jhye Richardson stood at the top of his mark in a Test match but that looks set to change on Boxing Day, on a grassy MCG surface Steve Smith has deemed fit to use without a spinner. It's one of many pieces of selection news for both teams, including the premature end of Jofra Archer's series, that Adam and Bharat get into before tackling their Christmas lunches. Get your copy of Bedtime Tales for Cricket Tragics: linktr.ee/tfwbook Support the show with a Nerd Pledge at patreon.com/thefinalword Stop snoring with 5% off a Zeus device: use code TFW2025 at zeussleeps.com Get yourself some lovely BIG Boots UK, with 10% off at this link: https://www.bigboots.co.uk/?ref=thefinalword Try the new Stomping Ground Final Word beer, or join Patreon to win a case: stompingground.beer Maurice Blackburn Lawyers - fighting for workers since 1919: mauriceblackburn.com.au Get your big NordVPN discount: nordvpn.com/tfw Get 10% off Glenn Maxwell's sunnies: t20vision.com/FINALWORD Find previous episodes at finalwordcricket.com Title track by Urthboy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Kate Cross and Alex Hartley lift the cricketing mood by bringing you some festive cheer, interluded with a little bit of Ashes chat as England lose the series with two games still to play. Plus, can they guess which of Santa's elves have been spotted in Australia?
We look back at the best of Stumped in 2025 which gives you a chance to listen to some of the standout moments from the last twelve months, including our trip to India. We hear from former India captain Anjum Chopra on what it meant to her to witness history being made, when India women won their first ever Cricket World Cup. Plus when Alison Mitchell was in Guwahati, she spoke to the Secretary of the BCCI, Devajit Saikia, who told her how the Women's Premier League has been integral in growing women's cricket in the country.Back in July, cricket was somewhat divided after South Africa's Wiaan Mulder remarkably passed up the opportunity to break Brian Lara's record for the highest individual score in a Test innings. Mulder, captaining South Africa for the first time, was 367 not out at lunch on the second day of the second Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo when he declared in their first innings. Mulder was just 33 runs short of Lara's record 400 that he scored for West Indies against England in Antigua in 2004. Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma debate if Mulder made the correct decision.Former India International Cheteshwar Pujara and his wife Puja Pabari joined the Stumped podcast to share how they navigate life in the public eye. They have written a book and told us how the process came about and reveal what Cheteshwar is like behind closed doors.And we hear from Tommy Lamb who has been travelling from England to Australia for the Ashes without using a plane.Photo: Harmanpreet Kaur of India celebrates after taking the catch to dismiss Nadine De Klerk of South Africa and lead the teams out her team to victory in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup India 2025 Final match between India and South Africa at Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy on November 02, 2025 in Navi Mumbai, India. (Photo by Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Patsy and Ashes are back this week to talk some festive holiday specials! This episode is all about Wil Vinton's Claymation Christmas! They also discuss when it truly feels like Christmas to them, as well as some participation from you, the listeners! They also reveal the answer to the age-old question - What is a wassail? All this and more on this very special episode of Throwdown Thursday! Find out more at https://throwdown-thursday.pinecast.co Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/throwdown-thursday/b77e3001-fb3e-4fa5-99e3-8e9a1aeb2492
Recorded on Christmas Day, Menners jumps on Cricket Unfiltered to react to a flood of news ahead of the Boxing Day Ashes Test. He breaks down Australia's likely XI, selection calls around Cameron Green, Usman Khawaja and the bowling attack, and why Steve Smith's comments on the MCG pitch matter. There's also a blunt assessment of England's spiralling tour — from injuries and team changes to the fallout from the Noosa trip — and why Bazball culture and leadership under Stokes and McCullum is being exposed. A sharp, opinionated preview of what's coming at the MCG, and why Australia head in as overwhelming favourites. (0:00) Christmas Day cricket debate and Boxing Day Test context (2:55) Australia's XI, Cameron Green's role, and selection frustrations (7:10) Bowling attack combinations and who misses out (12:40) England's injury crisis, Noosa fallout, and Bazball leadership questions Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We've launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show.
It's a year end, clocked out episode with Burke joining the show for holiday traditions, Christmas movie rotations, and why Christmas Vacation hits different the older you get. Then it's straight into the biggest geek headlines: the Avengers: Doomsday chatter around Steve Rogers, Christopher Nolan taking on The Odyssey (and why it feels built for IMAX), and the latest Superman casting talk with Lars Ettinger reportedly stepping in as Brainiac. The back half is a full, spoiler heavy review of Avatar: Fire and Ashes, covering the new faction dynamics, how the family story lands this time, Varang's presence as a villain, Quaritch's shifting loyalties, and what the ending sets up for what's next. Timestamps and Topics 00:00:00 Intro and holiday vibe check with Burke 00:00:51 Christmas decorating habits, movie rotation, and Vacation franchise talk 00:03:49 Avengers: Doomsday discussion and the Steve Rogers reaction 00:08:59 Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey trailer breakdown and IMAX hype 00:14:04 Superman talk, Lars Ettinger as Brainiac, and story hopes 00:17:34 Avatar: Fire and Ashes review begins (full spoilers) 00:27:35 Varang breakdown, motivations, and the darker mirror of "I see you" 00:33:27 Kiri's bigger role, the spiritual threads, and what it could mean next 00:41:44 Nitpicks, repetition talk, and the voice casting complaint 00:46:09 Scores, theater recommendation, and looking ahead Key Takeaways The episode starts relaxed and holiday coded, then shifts into big franchise conversation fast. The Avengers: Doomsday segment focuses on bringing Steve Rogers back without flattening Sam Wilson's space in the story. The Odyssey trailer has the crew excited for Nolan going mythic on a massive, grounded scale made for premium screens. Brainiac feels like a smart follow up villain for Superman, especially if the story ties power to personal stakes and Krypton lore. Avatar: Fire and Ashes hits harder emotionally this time, with Spider's place in the family and Neytiri's growth standing out. The main knocks are a few familiar Avatar beats repeating, even if the spectacle still wins. Memorable Quotes "This is very much Christmas Vacation. We are clocked out." "At the end of the day, I'm just happy to have Steve Rogers back." "How do they keep making perfect movies?" "You're basically following a dead man's memories." "I see you in that mirror." "I felt like the Colonel when I was just sitting there staring at her." Call to Action If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe, leave a quick review, and share it with a friend using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Links and Resources Geek Freaks Podcast's website is the source for all news discussed on the show. Follow Us Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast Twitter: @geekfreakspod Threads: @geekfreakspodcast Facebook: @thegeekfreakspodcast Patreon: GeekFreakspodcast Listener Questions Send your questions, hot takes, or topic requests via DM on Instagram, Twitter, or Threads, and we'll hit the best ones in a future episode. Apple Podcast tags: Geek Culture, Pop Culture, Movie News, Trailers, Marvel, Avengers, Avengers: Doomsday, Captain America, Steve Rogers, Sam Wilson, Secret Wars, Christopher Nolan, The Odyssey, IMAX, DCU, Superman, Brainiac, Krypton, Avatar, Avatar: Fire and Ashes, James Cameron, Film Review, Sci Fi, Fantasy
- Get NordVPN with a special discount - https://www.nordvpn.com/goodareas- Get an exclusive 15% discount on Saily data plans! Use code 'goodareas' at checkout. Download Saily app or go to:https://saily.com/goodareas-On this episode of The KimAppa Show, Jarrod Kimber and Robin Uthappa break down three major stories shaping world cricket.India's T20 World Cup squad is under the microscope — Shubman Gill misses out, Ishan Kishan returns, and Tilak Varma locks in the No.3 role. What do these calls reveal about India's World Cup strategy?The Ashes is done and dusted. England trail 3–0, the series is effectively over, and the gap between a frantic England and a ruthless Australia looks bigger than ever.Plus, IPL auction reactions — RCB emerge as big winners, two young Indian players land ₹14 crore deals, and we unpack the logic, inflation, and impact on the upcoming season.Clear analysis, strong opinions, no sugar-coating — this is The KimAppa Show. -You can buy my new book 'The Art of Batting' here:India: https://amzn.in/d/8nt6RU1UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1399416545-To support the podcast please go to our Patreon page. https://www.patreon.com/user?u=32090121. Jarrod also now has a Buy Me A Coffee link, for those who would prefer to support the shows there: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/jarrodkimber.Each week, Jarrod Kimber hosts a live talk show on a Youtube live stream, where you can pop in and ask Jarrod a question live on air. Find Jarrod on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JarrodKimberYT.To check out my video podcasts on Youtube : https://youtube.com/@JarrodKimberPodcasts-This podcast is edited and mixed by Ishit Kuberkar, he's at https://instagram.com/soundpotionstudio & https://twitter.com/ishitkMukunda Bandreddi is in charge of our video side. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
AUSTRALIA DOMINATES ENGLAND IN THE ASHES CRICKET SERIES Colleague Jeremy Zakis. Zakisanalyzes the Ashes series, noting England's poor performance and failure to execute their aggressive "Bazball" strategy effectively. Conversely, Australia's consistent, conservative playing style has fatigued the English team, leading to early victories. Captain Pat Cummins has returned to the field as the final matches proceed in Sydney and Melbourne. 1884