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Plans have been unveiled for a new digital gift card for Mullingar to replace their popular gift vouchers. In circulation since 2012, over €2.5 million of Mullingar Gift Vouchers have been sold to date, with over €500,000 of the paper vouchers sold in 2024 alone. Led by Mullingar Chamber, a wide variety of Mullingar businesses are eligible to accept the card including shops, restaurants, pubs, attractions, salons and hotels. Businesses who are part of the Chamber can accept the card commission free. The forthcoming Mullingar Digital Gift Card will be available as either a physical or a digital gift card. It will work with merchants' existing payment terminals, with no additional equipment required. Mullingar Chamber says the move to the high-tech gift card offers a number of improvements for local businesses, customers and organisations. James Bourke, president at Mullingar Chamber said: "The paper gift vouchers have been very successful for our economy with €2.5 million in sales to date. Every euro spent locally is worth €4 to the local economy, so that €2.5 million has benefited our economy to the tune of €10 million. Of course, there are the usual drawbacks of paper vouchers, such as people not being able to get change from their paper voucher and the administration involved for businesses in getting paid. "Our forthcoming Mullingar Gift Card will be easy for customers and organisations to use as gifts, and businesses to accept, making the initiative even more appealing and helping us develop our strong 'shop local' ethos in Mullingar further. People want to see the businesses they love open and busy, and our new gift card is essential to helping Mullingar to thrive. "We encourage all retail, hospitality, and service providers to register to accept the new gift card prior to its launch so they can benefit from the footfall and spend the initiative will bring." The Mullingar Gift Card will be part of the multi-award-winning Town & City Gift Card concept active across Ireland in Ballinrobe, Carndonagh, Cavan, Donegal Town, Drogheda, Kilkenny, Letterkenny, Limerick, Sligo, Tipperary, Waterford and County Wexford. Colin Munro is the managing director of Miconex and said: "Merchants can register to accept the forthcoming Mullingar Gift Card with a simple one-time registration. We've supported a number of towns and cities in Ireland making the move from paper vouchers to a high-tech gift card and the feedback from merchants, consumers and organisations is incredibly positive, with all appreciating the ease of use, support for local and choice." Businesses looking for further information can email: Lauren at office@mullingarchamber.ie See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.
ShopLK, Letterkenny's shop local initiative, has attained a record breaking year of sales, the 20th consecutive year of growth for the programme. Annual sales of ShopLK Gift Cards for 2024 reached €7,059,234, an increase of €1.3m on 2023, making the program the top selling local gift card in Ireland. The initiative celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024 The record breaking year of shop local sales for Letterkenny follows an increase in corporate sales and the introduction of a raft of technological advancements for the programme including the digital ShopLK Gift Card and the ability to pick up cards in person and load with value. Commenting on the most recent achievement, Claire McDonough, Chamber President said: "Each year since our ShopLK Gift Cards were launched, we have had year on year sales increases. We were cautious this year with making a prediction after hitting such a huge milestone last year, so we have been blown away by this figure that has far exceeded all our expectations. "Our corporate sales continue to increase as businesses chose the ShopLK Gift Card as a reward for their employees and this year we welcomed new corporate customers from around the county recognising that Letterkenny is regarded as the main retail centre of the county. "Corporate sales are only part of the success story. The Chamber Office and the pop-up shop in The Courtyard Shopping centre were busier than ever right up to Christmas eve. This year we also had the ShopLK digital card as an alternative to the physical card and the 'Load this Card' option has also proven really popular. "As ShopLK Gift Cards are only redeemable in over 260 outlets in Letterkenny, this brings profit to the town and supports local jobs. ShopLK is all about supporting local shopping, sales of this level shows that the message has gotten through. Customers love the variety and the support it offers in their favourite outlets." Toni Forrester, CEO at Letterkenny Chamber, commented: "What a busy year it was. 2024 saw us move into a new partnership with Town & City Gift Card provider Miconex; this has given us much more scope in terms of a digital offering that has proved very popular, web sales were also up on last year and all round we are now able to offer a better online service. "As we headed into December we knew it was busy but this sales level has really surprised us. This is the biggest town scheme in Ireland and we appreciate our customers who have bought cards in their thousands and the many businesses who use ShopLK as their preferred employee reward." The digital version of the ShopLK Gift Card can be added to digital wallets, enabling 'tap to pay' New digital technology for corporate organisations was also introduced in the latter part of 2024, allowing organisations to send ShopLK Gift Cards to multiple recipients at once, immediately or on a future date. Colin Munro is the managing director of Miconex and said: "It has been fantastic to work alongside Letterkenny Chamber in 2024 to help take this trailblazing local gift card to the next level of growth. The introduction of the new digital ShopLK Gift Card for both consumers and corporate organisations enhanced accessibility and convenience of the card, encouraging even more people to make the move to local. "With the Irish Revenue's Small Benefit Exemption Scheme now increased to €1,500 from January 1st, local gift cards like the ShopLK Gift Card give employers the chance to gift their staff a tax free benefit that also benefits their community." Acknowledging the support of Donegal County Council, Claire McDonough added: "The financial support that we have had from the Donegal County Council, Letterkenny Milford MD, has really enabled us to elevate ShopLK over the years and really establish the brand. It has allowed us to promote Letterkenny across Donegal and the North West. "Letterkenny Chamber could not run this highly successful initiative without the support of DSP Community Employment progr...
Cavan Chamber of Commerce has upgraded its paper vouchers for a high tech gift card to provide tangible support for businesses, enable organisations to support local with employee rewards, and encourage the younger generation to shop local. A joint initiative with Cavan County Council, the new gift card replaces the Cavan Chamber Voucher which has operated in the town since 2020. Available as either a physical gift card or an e-card that can be added to digital wallets, hopes are high that the new Cavan Town Gift Card will make it easier for existing and new audiences to shop local. The Cavan Town Gift Card can be spent with multiple businesses in the town, including shops, restaurants, hotels and services. Both national brands and independent businesses accept the card, which is part of the Town & City Gift Card concept active across Ireland. Over €7 million Town & City Gift Cards were sold in Ireland in 2023. The cards are eligible to be used with the Irish Revenue's Small Benefit Exemption Scheme, making them popular for organisations to use for employee rewards. Councillor Philip Brady from Cavan County Council, who is also owner of The Sports Shop in Cavan, said the objective of the new gift card is to drive spend in Cavan and prevent business closures: "We've had a paper voucher in Cavan for a number of years now but the time was right to upgrade. As a Chamber, we have noticed a drop in footfall in Cavan Town itself. The objective of the new gift card is to bring people right into the heart of the town with money to spend, so we can keep businesses open. "There is great enthusiasm from our businesses for the new Cavan Town Gift Card which has huge potential to drive significant sales in our town, especially from organisations using the card for employee rewards. Only a few businesses accept the national gift cards because of the high commissions, whereas the Cavan Town Gift Card is commission free for businesses to accept, so all of the money goes to our town. All Cavan businesses can accept the gift card, whether they are members of the Chamber or not. "We live in a digital world so the e-card version of the card in particular will be beneficial in encouraging the future generation to shop local and support their town. It's also highly convenient, with the ability to send a card to the recipient in moments." Cian Donohoe is the owner of Cian's Tech World and said the commission free nature of the card is a positive: "The launch of the new Cavan Town Gift Card is important to drive forward the shop local ethos in Cavan. The paper vouchers were a massive help in getting customers through the door but from a retailer's perspective, the new gift card is a lot more customer and business friendly. We've actually stopped accepting the national gift cards because of the high commission they charge, so the zero commission on the Cavan Town Gift Card is a big bonus. Too many gift cards send people elsewhere whereas the Cavan Gift Card has to be spent here with our businesses and is a fantastic opportunity for us." Peter Scanlon is the owner of Elegant Gems and urges local firms to consider the card for Christmas rewards: "Elegant Gems is a third generation business dating back to 1944 so we've seen many changes in that time. The paper vouchers were good but very time consuming and administration heavy whereas the new Cavan Town Gift Card is high-tech and much easier for businesses to accept and customers to use. This Christmas, I urge all local employers to consider using the Cavan Town Gift Card to reward their staff tax free, using the Small Benefit Exemption with the reassurance that the card has to be spent in the town, locking spend into Cavan." Alongside Cavan, new Town & City Gift Card programmes launching in 2024 include Donegal Town, Wexford, Limerick, Kilkenny and Tipperary. Colin Munro is the managing director of Miconex and said: "We're pleased to welcome Cavan to our network of Town & City Gift Card programmes acr...
A new gift card has gone live in Donegal Town as part of efforts to retain spend in Donegal and encourage local spending. Backed by Donegal Town Business Focus Group, the new Donegal Town Gift Card is available as a physical gift card or an e-card that can be added to digital wallets. Donegal Town introduced their paper Shop Local Vouchers in 2016, with over €1.5 million in sales to date. Gareth Britton is chairperson of Donegal Town Business Focus Group, and owner of All Sports and said the time was right for the town to introduce a high-tech gift card: "All Sports was founded in 1997 and like most of the businesses who are part of the Donegal Town Business Focus Group, it is family run. The idea behind the Shop Local Vouchers was to help keep money local in challenging economic times and encourage a buy and spend local mind-set. The best option initially was paper but it's time to move on to a high tech physical and digital gift card. "The main benefit of the new Donegal Town Gift Card is that it's user friendly. The gift card format is one people are familiar with, and unlike the paper vouchers that could only be used in one business, the gift card can be used in multiple businesses, across multiple transactions. "As we approach the peak season for gift card sales, having our own gift card is a huge advantage enabling both consumer and corporate sales. Organisations can buy the Donegal Town Gift Card for their staff with the knowledge that it can be spent with so many businesses in Donegal Town. "It's eligible for the Small Benefit Exemption, meaning organisations can reward their staff, tax free, up to €1,000 per employee, which goes up to €1,500 in January." Alongside retail and hospitality, a range of service based businesses accept the Donegal Town Gift Card like locally owned business, Specsavers. Eddie Dolan is the co-owner of Specsavers and said: "Specsavers has been open for 8 years in Donegal. We're part of the wider Specsavers brand, offering the value, service and quality eye care the brand is known for but delivered in a local way with a warm Donegal welcome. I think the progression of the vouchers to the new Donegal Town Gift Card is a fantastic and a great move for our local businesses. A high-tech gift card is what customers expect nowadays. "It makes a more thoughtful, personal gift. With over 80 businesses participating, recipients of the card have flexibility to spend it on their eyes and ears, groceries, fuel or anything else they want or need in Donegal Town, blending practical uses with treats. "It's also so much easier for businesses to accept the new gift card as payment, just like any other card payment. Plus, there's no commission for businesses to accept the Donegal Town Gift Card, unlike the national gift cards which take a big commission. We'll be giving the Donegal Town Gift Card to our staff this Christmas using the Small Benefit Exemption because it ensures the full benefit reaches the employee, and locks our investment in Donegal Town." The Donegal Town Gift Card is part of the multi award winning Town & City Gift Card concept active across Ireland in Ballinrobe, Carndonagh, Drogheda, Letterkenny, Sligo and Waterford. Over €7 million Town & City Gift Cards were sold in Ireland in 2023, with around 80% of sales to organisations for staff rewards and incentives. Colin Munro is the managing director of Miconex and said: "It has been fantastic to work alongside Donegal Town to successfully onboard businesses from their previous paper voucher scheme to their new gift card. In our 2024 research, shop local sentiment was extremely high with consumers, employees and organisations all expressing a desire to support local businesses and their community. With its inherent support for local and unbeatable local choice, the Donegal Town Gift Card is the gift card that people want to receive." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication a...
Colin Munro is South African-New Zealand cricketer who is known for his explosive batting, setting multiple records in the T20 format. He has represented the Black Caps internationally and made his mark across global T20 leagues, including stints in the IPL, BBL, and CPL. - In this podcast we talked about: The joys of BackYard Cricket, and the intricate home grown rules we all had Playing alongside Brendon McCullum and his leadership style The mindset when it comes to batting and getting into the game Flying around the world playing franchise cricket The Big Bash League Evolving as a person throughout his playing career Being a father and guiding his kids through their sports How to work on your strengths and weaknesses This episode is full of gold. Check it out on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and iHeart Radio
Fintech Miconex has launched new digital gifting technology in Ireland to enable organisations to easily reward their staff with local gift cards. The technology, introduced in October, allows organisations to send digital e-cards versions of Town & City Gift Cards online to multiple recipients at once. Organisations can also choose to send their gift cards immediately or on a future date. Recipients are then able to 'tap to pay' with a range of local businesses including retail, hospitality, health & beauty, leisure & attractions and services. Miconex operates local Town & City Gift Card programmes across Ireland in Ballinrobe, Carndonagh, Drogheda, Letterkenny, Sligo and Waterford, with new programmes set to launch pre Christmas in Wexford, Tipperary, Limerick, Kilkenny and Donegal Town. The cards - which can be spent with big brands and independent businesses in specific towns and cities - are popular for employee rewards with organisations including The Riverside Hotel, Arrotek and Compupac using the cards. The introduction of the new digital e-card technology echoes key industry trends with the GCVA reporting that digital gift card sales overtook physical gift card sales for the first time in 2024, an increase of 17.1%, largely driven by the employee benefit market. In Miconex 2024 research with over 4,000 organisations, employees and consumers, 84% of organisations said corporate social responsibility has become more important to their organisation over the past 12 months and 89% said supporting local businesses/their community was important to their organisation. Support for local is also strong with employees. 94% of employees said it is important that the organisation they work for supports local businesses. Colin Munro, managing director of Miconex, said: "Ireland has a unique employee reward and incentive culture with the Irish Revenue's Small Benefit Exemption Scheme allowing organisations to gift pay rolled employees and directors up to two small non-cash benefits each year up to a value of €1,000, increasing to €1,500 in January 2025. "Organisations in Ireland are evolving their reward and incentive strategies, putting increased focus on the 3 Cs of community support, CSR and choice for their teams. Our investment in digital gift card technology is key to our mission of making it easy for organisations to make the move to a local gift card that blends support for local with unbeatable local choice." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.
Limerick City and County Council, in partnership with Limerick Chamber, have unveiled plans to introduce a new gift card to encourage shop local in association with local businesses. The new Limerick Gift Card is set to launch before Christmas with an aim of driving footfall and spend in the city and surrounding towns, including Newcastle West, Adare, Abbeyfeale, Kilmallock and Rathkeale. Newly elected Mayor of Limerick, John Moran outlined plans for a shop local initiative in his Mayoral Programme in August. The forthcoming Limerick Gift Card will be available as either a digital or physical gift card, with multiple benefits over paper gift vouchers, including security, friction-less redemptions and quick payment for merchants accepting the cards. The new Limerick gift card will provide tangible investment into a number of sectors including retail, hospitality, leisure and services, benefiting both the day and night time economy. Limerick businesses are encouraged to take part in the programme, which offers a no commission basis. Michelle Gallagher, CEO of Limerick Chamber said the Limerick Gift Card will differentiate itself from other gift cards: "A key USP of the card is the commission free nature of it. Limerick businesses have experience of accepting the national cards that charge commission for every transaction. With the Limerick Gift Card, the business keeps 100% of the transaction, at no additional cost to the purchaser. This is a gift card purely for Limerick which can be spent only with Limerick businesses, and that sets it apart from any other gift card. "This is a great and tax efficient opportunity for employers in the region to support local businesses, by providing the Limerick Gift Card to their employees this year. Every transaction will go a long way in helping local businesses in Limerick." John Moran, Mayor of Limerick said: "The Mayoral Programme set out the plan to improve and invigorate Limerick's shopping districts. That is exactly what the Limerick Gift Card will do, giving people money to spend with Limerick businesses, in person, driving footfall. I am calling on Limerick organisations to unite to develop the Limerick Gift Card. "Once the Limerick Gift Card launches, organisations will have the option of a gift card for Limerick where the money stays right across the county in Limerick, benefiting local businesses. Just in time for Christmas planning." The Limerick Gift Card will be part of the multi award winning Town & City Gift Card concept active across Ireland in Ballinrobe, Carndonagh, Drogheda, Letterkenny, Sligo and Waterford. Over €7 million Town & City Gift Cards were sold in Ireland in 2023, with around 80% of sales to organisations for staff rewards and incentives. Colin Munro is the managing director of Miconex and said: "It is very easy for Limerick businesses to register to accept the forthcoming Limerick Gift Card using a simple one-time registration process. As the card is Mastercard backed, businesses need no additional equipment, and it's friction-free." Limerick businesses wishing to find out more can email: info@limerickchamber.ie See more stories here.
County Tipperary Chamber and Tipperary County Council are collaborating to introduce a county-wide gift card to champion 'shop local' and boost the local economy. The Tipperary Gift Card is set to launch pre-Christmas as part of efforts to drive footfall and spend across the county and in the towns of Carrick-On-Suir, Clonmel, Cahir, Cashel, Tipperary Town, Thurles, Templemore, Nenagh and Roscrea. Once launched, the Tipperary Gift Card will only be able to be spent with registered businesses, in person, locking spend into the county. There will be a 0% commission rate for the first 12 months for Tipperary businesses to accept the new gift card, keeping 100% of the transaction within the business. All types of businesses are eligible to accept the card, including retail, hospitality, leisure and tourism, health/beauty and services, with no additional equipment required. Businesses don't have to be a County Tipperary Chamber member to be a part of the new gift card. Michelle Aylward, Chief Executive at County Tipperary Chamber said: "Local businesses are the backbone of our Tipperary communities and now is the time for us to work together on a single shop local gift card for the whole county that will be transformative for our towns. "The Tipperary Gift Card is a phenomenal opportunity for Tipperary businesses to bring people through their doors with money to spend. With the zero commission to accept the card, there is no reason for a business not to be a part of this gift card. And as all types of consumer facing businesses can accept the card, it spreads out the benefit across Tipperary. It will provide tangible support for businesses and help to pull our communities together." Sinead Carr, C.E. of Tipperary County Council stated: "The availability of such an opportunity in County Tipperary is something I have long envisaged and I am particularly delighted to see that it will be in place for the Christmas 2024 period. Registering to accept the forthcoming Tipperary Gift Card is straightforward and cost-free. As we approach the key Christmas trading period, being a part of the gift card is a route to new revenue and new customers." The Tipperary Gift Card will be part of the multi award winning Town & City Gift Card concept active across Ireland in Ballinrobe, Carndonagh, Drogheda, Letterkenny, Sligo and Waterford. Over €7 million Town & City Gift Cards were sold in Ireland in 2023, with around 80% of sales to organisations for staff rewards and incentives. Colin Munro is the managing director of Miconex and said: "What makes the Tipperary Gift Card unique is the technology behind it. The card is Mastercard backed so the balance gets automatically updated when customers spend. Customers can check their balance in moments using the QR code on the gift card. And there will be a digital version of the card that customers can upload to digital wallets. This all makes the process of accepting the gift card friction-free for businesses, and that is vital." Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council Cllr Declan Burgess stated: "The collaboration between County Tipperary Chamber and Tipperary County Council on the forthcoming county-wide Tipperary Gift Card is a fantastic example of organisations joining together for the benefit of their communities both socially and economically. When we look at the success of Town & City Gift Card programmes across Ireland, the potential of the new gift card to keep Tipperary money in Tipperary towns is considerable." See more stories here.
Shop local champion Miconex has launched its 2024 search to find Ireland's Favourite Local Business, with €1500 in local gift cards as the prize. Ireland's Favourite Local Business will be the business who has the most unique votes at lovelocalwin.ie and will win a €500 local gift card, with one person who nominated them winning a €1000 local gift card. The competition aims to shine a light on local businesses making a positive impact on communities. Local businesses across a range of sectors are eligible to be Ireland's Favourite Local Business, including retail, hospitality, leisure, accommodation, health and beauty and services. Miconex operates over 200 local gift card programmes around the world, including Town & City Gift Cards Ireland and the UK, with over €35 million spent locally to date and over 20,000 businesses participating. Irish Town & City Gift Card programmes are active in Ballinrobe, Carndonagh, Drogheda, Letterkenny, Sligo and Waterford. The mix of independent and national businesses which accept the local gift cards makes them unique in the sector. Between 50% and 100% of cards are redeemed with independent businesses. Ireland's Favourite Local Business also aims to build on the shop local sentiment that exists in the run up to the key Christmas trading period. In December 2023, the GCVA found that the number of gift card shoppers supporting local increased to 19.7%, reflecting a wider cultural shift toward community-centric values. Colin Munro is the managing director of Miconex and said: "With Ireland's Favourite Local Business, we're encouraging people to think about the local businesses, big and small, that have a positive impact on their community, from shops to restaurants, hotels to salons. It's a reminder of the difference that local businesses make and a plea to think local as we approach the festive season. "The Christmas trading period is crucial for businesses and when people choose to shop local it helps businesses to stay open, to keep on employing local people and contributes to community vibrancy." The competition closes on the 31st October 2024 See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.
This week on On The Front Foot Bryan Waddle and Jeremy Coney discuss whether Colin Munro was blacklisted by NZ Cricket. Time has caught up with Jimmy Anderson, England cricket is facing financial challenges, and a young cricketer on the way up reflects on his first tour with the Black Caps. Your views are welcome at onthefrontfoot20@gmail.com LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
QUICK LISTEN | “It was an opportunity for him…wasn't necessarily a clear line of communication…Colin Munro and some of these others…really interesting test-cases of where NZC could go…” Ben Strang on Colin Munro retirement Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Bulletin with Ben Strang on Sam Cane's retirement, Colin Munro's retirement, future of domestic cricket, Jimmy Anderson retirement, Wellington Phoenix home leg of the A-league Men semifinal & more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
QUICK LISTEN | “Said he got a phone call from NZC saying would you fancy a trip to Pakistan, he opted against that and he misses out on the World Cup squad…there was murmurings it won't affect the selection…” Tom Bartlett on Colin Munro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Bulletin with Tom Bartlett on Colin Munro's retirement and blacklisted comments, Rob Penny looking broken, Blues v Hurricanes, game-day experience, Warriors dropping the ball, Novak & more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to a new episode of the podcast! We are happy to have a friend of the podcast Ramachandra joining us on this episode. Games Covered BANw v INDw: T20i series wrap-up. PAKw v WIw: T20i series wrap-up. BAN v ZIM: T20i series. IRE v PAK: T20i series. IPL 2024: 5/6th week's games. Other news ENG's James Anderson set to end his career this summer? BCCI to advertise for a head-coach's role before WC T20. NZ's Colin Munro retires from international cricket. PSL propose a move to the Apr-May window in a potential clash with IPL dates? T20 WC squads - ENG, SL, NEP ______________________________________________________________________________ Listen to us and get in touch: On Spotify On Apple podcasts On Google podcasts On Pocket Casts On Breaker On RadioPublic Via Twitter Via Facebook Via E-mail Please do subscribe to our podcast and let us know what you think in the comments section of the podcasting app, via mail or on social media. Leave us a 5-star rating on any platform or app (like apple podcasts) you use to listen to us. Thanks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ex-Black Caps batter Colin Munro believes he was “blacklisted” by New Zealand Cricket for opting to ply his trade as a Twenty20 freelancer. Munro, 37, has not played for the Black Caps at any level since 2020, but on Friday officially confirmed his time as an international is done. While he hasn't appeared for New Zealand in more than four years, Munro has been a fixture in overseas Twenty20 leagues as one of the most prominent faces in the franchise game. But speaking to Newstalk ZB's Jason Pine, Munro questioned the approach of New Zealand Cricket, and former chief executive David White, for overlooking players seeking to make the most of professional opportunities. “I've always been available,” he said. “Under David White, if you were playing franchise cricket and weren't playing domestic cricket in New Zealand, you were sort of blacklisted, I think. “It was never told [like] that to me, but I think it was. There were the likes of Anton Devcich, myself, Mitchell McClenaghan, those players who all chose franchise cricket. “As soon as you weren't playing in New Zealand, there was a black mark next to your name. You weren't going to play.” Munro isn't alone in that regard either. As one of New Zealand's white ball greats, Martin Guptill hasn't worn the silver fern at any level since he opted out of his central contract in late 2022. However, under new chief executive Scott Weenink, New Zealand Cricket appears to have relaxed its selection criteria. The pair of Trent Boult and Jimmy Neesham, both without central contracts to pursue franchise opportunities, were selected for last year's 50-over World Cup in India, and the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and US. As the Black Caps picked a heavily depleted squad to tour Pakistan earlier this year, Munro turned down an approach to return to the fold to spend time with his family after finishing his commitments with Islamabad United. And having made the initial approach to see him return, Munro also questioned why New Zealand Cricket would sound him out, only to overlook him altogether. Colin Munro (left) and Martin Guptill have both been consistently overlooked by New Zealand Cricket after opting to pursue franchise cricket. Photo / Photosport “It was my dream, I thought it was gone,” he said. “Then you get a phone call out of the blue [to ask] are you available for a World Cup? “You get up and about, start thinking and dreaming like a young kid. You haven't played for four years, so you think you could probably get up to have one last hurrah in the black jersey, in conditions that I'm really familiar with in Trinidad. “Then the World Cup squad was announced. I'm not going to lie, I was a little bit gutted I wasn't in there, just because I was in talks and in the frame. “But I can fully understand why. Those boys fully deserve it, I'll be behind them every step of the way. “I just don't know why that was put in front of me. It would have been nice to know, did I have to go on the Pakistan tour? They said I didn't have to, that's why I ended up choosing not to. “If I had gone over there and done well, I still might not have gone to the World Cup.” If Munro had been selected for the World Cup, the Black Caps would have gained a valuable asset. In the history of T20 cricket, only 11 players have appeared in more matches for the Black Caps. All up, Munro has 428 appearances in the shortest format, with 79 of them coming for the Trinbago Knight Riders in the Caribbean Premier League. Trinbago's home ground of the Brian Lara Cricket Academy is where the Black Caps will play three matches at this year's World Cup, against hosts West Indies, Uganda and Papua New Guinea. At international level, Munro played 65 T20 Internationals, and was the first man to score three centuries for his country in the shortest format. That number could have been higher, were it not for spending the past four years on the sidelines. In 2020, Munro lost his New Zealand Cricket central contract, and opted to dedicate his career to the shortest format as a T20 gun for hire. Since then, he's accrued experience playing everywhere from Australia's Big Bash League to Canada's Global T20. Alex Powell is an Online Sports Editor for the NZ Herald. He has been a sports journalist since 2016, and previously worked for both Newshub and 1News. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the world of retirements from international sport, Colin Munro's from international cricket was an interesting one. Because he hadn't actually played for the Black Caps since February 2020. Hadn't got a contract in 2020, so he moved abroad. Then he turned himself into a T20 globetrotter - playing for franchises around the globe and slugging runs for fun for many of them. But that wasn't enough to crack a spot back in the Black Caps. Despite him being chased by a number of teams —from the Brisbane Heat to the Toronto Nations to the St Lucia Kings— as a gun for hire, NZC were steadfast in not picking him from abroad. He hasn't got a chance and has finally decided after missing out on the T20 World Cup next month that enough is enough, and he'll pull pin on his international career. In an interview you can hear later today on Weekend Sport, and you might have caught a bit of on our news bulletins yesterday, Munro felt his card was marked by previous NZC CEO David White. This is where cricket in this country needs to make a decision fast. Because Munro was a trendsetter in many ways and didn't get picked, now we have Trent Boult choosing when to play and that trickle could become a tide. He felt like he wasn't given a fair opportunity in his best format for his country and it's hard to disagree. The ICC needs to carve out non-T20 franchise periods for cricket ASAP, but NZ Cricket needs to pick its best talent and they didn't do that with Colin. Let's hope he's the last player whose talents they fail to make the most of. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
QUICK LISTEN | “I understand he was even contacted for this next tour to Pakistan…been in vintage form for the last three years in T20 cricket…well sort after in every competition…fiercely loyal…” Mike Hesson on Colin Munro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Local gift cards are driving significant spend in towns and cities across Ireland, says fintech Miconex as it shares key insights from its local gift card programmes around the world. Sales in Ireland across Miconex's Town & City Gift Cards programs in Sligo, Ballinrobe, Drogheda, Waterford, Carndonagh and Letterkenny totalled over €7 million in 2023. In 2024, demand for shop local continues to rise with local gift card sales in Ireland up 62% on 2023, to date. The number of places with a local gift card programme backed by Miconex technology topped 200 for the first time in 2023. 26 new places, including Waterford, launched their own local gift card in 2023, capitalising on the global demand for gift cards and giving places a means to divert online spend back to independent and national bricks and mortar businesses across sectors. Miconex 2023 data shows that 90% of people spend over the value of the gift card on redemption globally, typically 65%. In Ireland, 33% spend 100% - 125% more than the value of the gift card on redemption. 71% of those who overspend see their gift card as 'free money', spending more than the gift card value as a result. The range of independent businesses which accept Miconex's local gift cards - usually alongside a range of national brands - makes the cards unique in the sector. A typical 50%, and up to 100%, of its local gift cards are redeemed with independent shops, restaurants and venues. 2023 also saw a marked move by organisations towards local gift cards for staff rewards and incentives, plus charities using the cards for service user support. Colin Munro the managing director of Miconex said the appetite for local gift cards continues to grow across Ireland: "Receiving a local gift card is the first step in an exciting journey of discovery for recipients. Taking into account the typical 65% and up to 125% overspend, the impact of local gift cards in 2023 was significant and this is a trend that will continue. "Globally in 2023, 96% of people said they are keen to support local. The mix of independents with national brands, across multiple sectors, makes our local gift cards appealing for both consumers and organisations as the ultimate shop local gift card. In 2024, we'll be continuing to work alongside our places to drive even more spend into Irish towns and cities." Town & City Gift Card programmes in Ireland attribute their success to organisational and community support for local: Trevor Connolly, chief executive officer at Love Drogheda BID said: "We have been delighted with the sustained growth of the Love Drogheda Gift Card with sales of over €500,000 since inception and over 220 participants to give a high level of variety of shopping options to the user of the cards. This has been an excellent programme to help retain local spend and sustain local employment." Deirdre Bradley, chairperson of the Carndonagh Traders' Association, said: "The Carndonagh Gift Card is the most impactful project we've undertaken as a Trader's Association and has been hugely beneficial for businesses in the town. I think the success of the card is thanks to the support we've had from our community, from people buying the cards as gifts to employers using the card for staff rewards and incentives. It's a gift card that offers choice and works for all ages and interests. Our gift card has kept many businesses in Carndonagh open." Mark Cunningham, Love Sligo programme coordinator, said: "The success of the Love Sligo Gift Card materialised for a number of key reasons, CEO of Sligo BID Gail McGibbon identified a gap in the market for a zero percent multi use gift card which resulted in a successful partnering with Miconex, this was followed by the deliverance of an intense locally focused marketing campaign highlighting the key economic benefits that the Love Sligo Gift Card brought to the town. "As campaign momentum gathered in the lead up to Christmas, the decision of 100+ local companies to choose the Lo...
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Brisbane Heat opening batsman Colin Munro joined D'Arcy Waldegrave, to discuss his incredible knock in the BBL opener against the Melbourne Stars. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cricket Today Podcast - Episode 3, Friday December 8 - Stars smashed, BBL weekend preview & SuperCoach locks! Cricket Today wraps up a huge BBL season opener as the Heat demolished the Stars, with Colin Munro going off with the bat! The panel predict the three weekend games of Sixers vs Renegades, Strikers vs Heat and Renegades vs Scorchers, including some signature Yeah/Nah questions and best BBL SuperCoach picks. Cricket Today's Liam 'Stats Guy' McAllion, Marcus Bazzano and Leo Mullaly delve into all things Big Bash League after an exciting start to the season!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The 'Win Your Dream Christmas' competition links to research showing strong support for local businesses and cost of living concerns. Miconex has launched its 'Win Your Dream Christmas' competition in Ireland as it continues to drive a shop local ethos across the country. Town & City Gift Card programmes from Miconex are active across Ireland in towns including Ballinrobe, Carndonagh, Drogheda, Sligo and Waterford. The multi-store, multi-sector gift cards work through the Mastercard system, and can be redeemed with retail, hospitality, leisure, health/beauty, accommodation and services businesses, keeping spend locked into local communities. The 'Win Your Dream Christmas competition' links to recent research undertaken by the fintech, including concerns around the cost of living, preference for gift cards and strong support for local businesses. Entrants are asked 'what is your dream Christmas' for a chance to win a 1,000 Town & City Gift Card for their chosen Irish programme. 96% of people say they are keen to support local businesses this Christmas. 87% say they support local businesses to help keep them open, and 89% plan to buy at least one gift card this Christmas. But there's also worry about how to pay for Christmas too with 72% of people saying the cost of living is a concern for them. Colin Munro is the managing director of Miconex and said support for local businesses is strong in Ireland. "Our research showed a strong understanding of the need to shop local and the impact that it has, namely keeping businesses open and communities vibrant. Not only that, the majority of respondents said that shopping local offers a better experience. People want to buy and receive gift cards and local gift cards offer both choice and support for local. "With the cost of living still a concern, our Win Your Dream Christmas competition is a chance for people to have a worry free Christmas. The winner in Ireland can pick a Town & City Gift Card for their nearest town and enjoy Christmas as they wish with those they love." The Win Your Dream Christmas opens on the 6th November and closes on the 8th December at www.winyourxmas.ie See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.
Colgate Assistant Coach and Offensive Coordinator Colin Munro stops by the podcast to chat with Jamie, who also happens to be his dad and former coach! They take a deep dive into Colin's lacrosse journey, especially his background in box lacrosse, and how that has shaped him into the coach he is today.
In this episode of the show, Binksy and Baldy review the second Ashes Test of 2023.Australia won the Test, but who is winning the PR battle? There was controversy galore - from Mitchell Starc's (non) catch, to the Alex Carey/Jonny Bairstow run out and the reaction of the MCC members at Lord's - but are all the distractions making it hard to step back and consider which team is actually playing the better cricket? And if Australia continue to win, will it be the end of BazBall? The end of Brendon McCullum?Ben Stokes and Steve Smith provided highlights, Nathan Lyon's 100th consecutive Test ended with injury and both sides have plenty of questions to consider in the short turnaround before the third match in the series.We'll be back again next week to review all the action, but please take the time before then to give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (@toporderpod on Twitter and Facebook, & @thetoporderpodcast on Instagram) and a (5-Star!) review at your favourite podcast provider, or tell a friend to download. It really helps others find the show and is the best thing you can do to support us. You can also find all our written content, including our Hall of Fame series, at our website, and our recent episodes are available on YouTube - we're slowly chipping away at growing this channel.You can also dip back into our guest episodes - including conversations with Wasim Khan, Finn Allen, Mike Hussey, Jeetan Patel, Colin Munro, Sophie Devine, Bharat Sundaresan and many more fascinating people from all across the cricketing world.And if you'd like to reach out to us with feedback, questions or guest suggestions, get in touch at thetoporderpodcast@gmail.com.Thanks for listening.
Alasdair McGill, Managing Director at Ashton McGill brings his client Colin Munro, Founder of Miconex, to share the journey they went on together that turned a small, local Scottish startup into growing global business. How Alasdair developed a service-oriented mindset at EY (02:00) Bringing a bespoke designer approach to accounting at Ashton McGill (04:34) Colin's journey from marketing to restaurants to a small business startup (07:30) The accelerated consumer desire to support the local economy (17:00) How Colin's firm, Miconex, is making it easy to shop local (18:55) When an accountant becomes a part of your firm's DNA (26:55) Do good work for good people (38:20) Where the future lies for Ashton McGill and Miconex (39:00)
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu recap the third day of the first Test between the Black Caps and England at Bay Oval.We talk marmalade, world records, Ben Foakes, short-pitched bowling, England's dominance and more Night Hawkery as the Test looks likely to come to a conclusion on day four.We'll be back again around the same time tomorrow to review day three, but please take the time to give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (@toporderpod on Twitter and Facebook, & @thetoporderpodcast on Instagram) and a (5-Star!) review at your favourite podcast provider, or tell a friend to download. It really helps others find the show and is the best thing you can do to support us. You can also find all our written content, including our Hall of Fame series, at our website, and a few of our episodes are available on YouTube - we're slowly chipping away at populating this channel.You can also dip back into our guest episodes - including recent conversations with Cam Fletcher and Luke Wright, plus chats with Shane Bond, Mike Hussey, Sophie Devine, Colin Munro, Finn Allen, Barry Richards and many more fascinating people from all across the cricketing world.And if you'd like to reach out to us with feedback, questions or guest suggestions, get in touch at thetoporderpodcast@gmail.com.Thanks for listening.
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu recap the second day of the first Test between the Black Caps and England at Bay Oval.We talk Tom Blundell's superb hundred, English bowling plans and the Nighthawk as NZ edged their way back into this Test as we approach day 3.We'll be back again around the same time tomorrow to review day three, but please take the time to give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (@toporderpod on Twitter and Facebook, & @thetoporderpodcast on Instagram) and a (5-Star!) review at your favourite podcast provider, or tell a friend to download. It really helps others find the show and is the best thing you can do to support us. You can also find all our written content, including our Hall of Fame series, at our website, and a few of our episodes are available on YouTube - we're slowly chipping away at populating this channel.You can also dip back into our guest episodes - including recent conversations with Cam Fletcher and Luke Wright, plus chats with Shane Bond, Mike Hussey, Sophie Devine, Colin Munro, Finn Allen, Barry Richards and many more fascinating people from all across the cricketing world.And if you'd like to reach out to us with feedback, questions or guest suggestions, get in touch at thetoporderpodcast@gmail.com.Thanks for listening.
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu recap the first day of the first Test between the Black Caps and England at Bay Oval.We talk NZ's seam attack, Harry Brook's genius and Jimmy Anderson's class as England ended the day firmly on top.We'll be back again around the same time tomorrow to review day two, but please take the time to give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (@toporderpod on Twitter and Facebook, & @thetoporderpodcast on Instagram) and a (5-Star!) review at your favourite podcast provider, or tell a friend to download. It really helps others find the show and is the best thing you can do to support us. You can also find all our written content, including our Hall of Fame series, at our website, and a few of our episodes are available on YouTube - we're slowly chipping away at populating this channel.You can also dip back into our guest episodes - including recent conversations with Cam Fletcher and Luke Wright, plus chats with Shane Bond, Mike Hussey, Sophie Devine, Colin Munro, Finn Allen, Barry Richards and many more fascinating people from all across the cricketing world.And if you'd like to reach out to us with feedback, questions or guest suggestions, get in touch at thetoporderpodcast@gmail.com.Thanks for listening.
Former Blackcaps batsman Colin Munro talks to Staf about the NZ T20 squad selected for the India series, the exclusion of Martin Guptill, and his experience playing cricket overseas.
The NFL adopted the instant replay rule on this day, and Harbhajan Singh became the first Indian to take a Test cricket hat trick. Pita Alatini, Colin Munro, and Tom Taylor all celebrate birthdays. Here's everything that happened on March 11.
Colin Munro has had an excellent season in the Big Bash, he joins the show to chat about his season and what's next for his career.
The Ashes takes centre stage this week as we discuss Australia's win in the first Test at the Gabba. Should England have bowled first? Did they pick the right team? Are we really that surprised their batters struggled? Will Travis Head's 150 prove to be a career-defining innings? Plus we had Patrick Cummins' captaincy debut, Nathan Lyon's 400th wicket, a rough time for Jack Leach, fines galore and injury concerns for both sides. During the second half of the show we all try to claim partial credit for our pre-match predictions, then get excited about the upcoming India v South Africa Test series before shout outs to Marty Kain, Colin Munro and Mitchell Hay. Keep an eye out for our next episode - an interview with Black Cap Rachin Ravindra. His positive attitude really made an impression on us and we're sure you'll enjoy the chat. If you enjoyed this episode, please take the time to give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (@toporderpod on https://twitter.com/Toporderpod (Twitter) and https://www.facebook.com/Toporderpod (Facebook), & @thetoporderpodcast on https://www.instagram.com/thetoporderpodcast/ (Instagram)) and a (5-Star!) review at your favourite podcast provider, or tell a friend to download. It really helps others find the show and is the best thing you can do to support us. We'd love to hear from you on any of our platforms. You can also find all our written content, including our Hall of Fame series, at our https://www.thetoporderpodcast.com/ (website), and a few of our episodes are available on https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo3GSknJELxxH4IDec2AjUA (YouTube) - we're chipping away at populating this channel. If you haven't already, dip back into our guest episodes, which include the likes of history-maker Ajaz Patel, both Mike and David Hussey, Graham Thorpe, Georgia Wareham, Jarrod Kimber, Shane Bond and many more fascinating people from all across the cricketing world. There's also our Hall of Fame series, in which we count down the 100 greatest Men's Test cricketers of all time. And if you'd like to reach out to us with feedback, questions or guest suggestions, get in touch at thetoporderpodcast@gmail.com. Thanks for listening.
Got that good Variety weirdness as always. Starting with some 1332 Poetry Corner efforts on Steven Adams and Kai Kara France (6:50) and then ripping into a pair of magnificent Vitamin Stats regarding Ajaz Patel as a kiwi Test spinner and the WBBL/BBL party that Colin Munro's just gotten amongst (12:15). Deep in the Mangroves offers up Southern United South Central Series champions and Team City Kickboxing's 2021 year in review (17:30). Question Time brings South Central Series MVPs, CKB's 2022 prospects, and Breakers vs Phoenix (24:00). Plus some Musical Jams to take us to the bridge (33:08). Pay attention, friends.
Hello and welcome to Secure The Insecure hosted by Johnny Seifert.In this week's episode, Johnny is joined by Colin Munro who has created the identity of Crystal, a Drag Queen for himself and the reasons behind it as well as what drag culture means to him.You can see Crystal on ITV2's Celebrity Karaoke Club: Drag Edition available on the ITVHub. If you have learnt something new and enjoyed the episode please rate and review the podcast by giving it a 5 star rating on Apple iTunes.To get in contact with me I am on social media @johnnyseifert See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.
Tonight Jim & Gilla discuss the pros and cons of getting to Eden Park on a Friday night for T20, Blues' patriot James Parsons retires, Colin Munro is for hire, Australia to 'unleash' the new Shaun Tait on NZ, and do we care yet about the America's Cup? Originally aired on eastfm.nz 28/01/21
In this episode of the BYC Podcast, the guys talk about the recently announced Tour of England, the form of Adam Milne and Colin Munro in the Big Bash and who is looking promising in the Super Smash...Also, comedian and cricket fanatic Dai Henwood drops us a line to talk Australian cricket, what he got out of watching Jeremy Coney’s VHS and which actor he would have play Jacob Oram in a biopic...
Ian Smith, Mike Hesson and World Cup winner Emily Drumm analyse the epic third test between Australia and India at the SCG, with the series now heading towards a decider in Brisbane. Is Steve Smith still a cheat? Should Tim Paine give up the captaincy? And is Cheteshwar Pujara really a problem? The trio also discuss Colin Munro, Doug Bracewell, Amy Satterthwaite, Frankie MacKay, Kyle Jamieson and sledging in women's cricket.
This is Part 2 of our conversation with Colin Munro who was the British Deputy Head of Mission in East Berlin from 1987 to 1990. In this episode we move to the monumental events of 1989 as the GDR was wrought by internal protest prior to the opening of the Wall in Berlin. It’s a fascinating account of Colin’s contacts who were giving him insights into the eventual fall of the GDR.Do you know how much $3 USD is in Pounds? It’s 76 pence which equals about 20p or 75c per episode if you sign up as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast. Higher amounts are welcome too. It’s very straightforward and you can stop whenever you want. Plus monthly supporters get the sought after CWC coaster too!Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/Thank you so much to our generous supporters who help keep us on the air.If that’s not your cup of tea then leave a written reviews in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help the podcast grow.In today’s episode, Colin tells of translating for Margaret Thatcher during a phone call with Helmut Kohl, UK imports from the GDR and of a drunken Harry Tisch, the East German Trade Union leader.We welcome Colin to our Cold War conversation…There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here. https://coldwarconversations.com/episode155/If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.Thankyou very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye.Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/coldwarpod)
Ian Smith, Mike Hesson and World Cup winner Emily Drumm review the astonishing first test between Australia and India, and try to explain one of the greatest collapses in cricket history. They also analyse how the Blackcaps will go against Pakistan, and touch on Adam Milne and Colin Munro in the Big Bash.
Colin Munro was the British Deputy Head of Mission in East Berlin from 1987 to 1990. Although the UK did not recognise East Berlin as part of the GDR in 1973 it established an Embassy “to” the GDR (not in the GDR) in East Berlin to provide a diplomatic presence.As Deputy Head of Mission Colin was effectively the Deputy Ambassador and was responsible for improving trade, ensuring correct dealings on status of Berlin and try to promote peaceful change. Do you know how much $3 USD is in Pounds? It’s 76 pence which equals about 20p or 75c per episode if you sign up as a monthly financial supporter of the podcast. Higher amounts are welcome too. It’s very straightforward and you can stop whenever you want. Plus monthly supporters get the sought after CWC coaster too!Just go to https://coldwarconversations.com/donate/If that’s not your cup of tea then leave a written reviews in Apple podcasts or share us on social media. By telling your friends you can really help the podcast grow.Back to today’s episode, Colin tells of life in the Embassy with some fascinating insights into the unique difficulties of being a diplomat in a capital city that the UK did not recognise..We welcome Colin to our Cold War conversation…There’s further information on this episode in our show notes, which can also be found as a link in your podcast app here . https://coldwarconversations.com/episode154/If you like what you are hearing, please leave reviews in Apple podcasts and share us on social media.If you can’t wait for next week’s episode do visit our Facebook discussion group where guests and listeners continue the Cold War Conversation. Just search Cold War Conversations in Facebook.Thankyou very much for listening. It is really appreciated – goodbye. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/coldwarpod)
In another attempt to strengthen our batting on the Top Order Podcast, we're joined by recent CPL winner with the Trinbago Knight Riders, Colin Munro. We discuss that unbeaten campaign and the dynasty TKR are building with the likes of Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine, Dwayne Bravo and coach Brendon McCullum. We also take a wider look at T20 leagues around the world and the mindset and approach needed to succeed at the top in a format that moves at such a fast pace. It should also come as no surprise from someone with a 14-ball 50 for the Black Caps, but the quickfire round is a treat, including one of the funniest sledge stories we've heard to date. Remember to give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (@toporderpod on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram) and a (5-Star!) review at your favourite podcast provider. It really helps others find the show. Also check out the back catalogue, there's plenty more great interviews with legends and characters from all over the cricketing world. And if you'd like to reach out to us, get in touch at thetoporderpodcast@gmail.com. Thanks for listening.
Kyle Mills reviewed the Black Caps' loss to Pakistan with D'Arcy and Goran and suggested that Colin Munro's time at the top of the order is up. Mills says he would like to see changes made for the Australia match this weekend.LISTEN TO THE AUDIO ABOVE
Neil Manthorp, South African cricket commentator, who thinks South Africa is the only team capable of denying NZ a place in the semi-finals. He is sticking to his pre-tournament pick of NZ to win because they are flying under the radar. Andrew Alderson, NZ Herald cricket writer from Birmingham. He thinks Colin Munro will again open for NZ tonight and the only change to the team might be Ish Sodhi coming in for an allrounder. He said to expect overs to be lost to rain tonight. Tony Kemp, RS league analyst, who slammed the state of international rugby league's eligibility rules. He thinks it is an embarrassment for the NZRL they named two players who then pulled out to play for Samoa.
Nick Compton was joined in the studio by T20 superstar Tymal Mills and over the phone by New Zealander Colin Munro as the anticipation builds and the clock ticks down to England's opener against South Africa at The Oval.
In this episode we speak with Colin Munro who has had an extensive career with the British Diplomatic Service. Today we speak about his time as Head of Chancery in Bucharest, Romania between 1981 to 1982. He provides a vivid view of a country initiating a policy of total repayment of the foreign debt by imposing austerity that impoverished the population and exhausted the economy.If you like what you’re hearing then from the price of a cup of coffee a month you can help keep us on the air. Just click here for more information . Thankyou so much to our latest Patron, Jamie Williams.Now back to today’s episode where we start with Colin describing his role within the embassy. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/coldwarpod)
Our Karachi Kings preview is here! Listen to us talk about the Karachi Kings squad as we summarise all you need to know about them. We talk about what Babar Azam and Colin Munro bring to the side, Imad Wasim being captain of the side, how far they can make it in this PSL, and much more!If you'd like to tell us what a horrible job we've done so far, please do so at our Twitter handle using the link https://twitter.com/downthegroundtw or send us your disappointments via Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DownTheGround/. If you’re into reading and stuff then do check our website at https://www.downtheground.com for latest editorials and player interviews.
It might not be the series win that New Zealand cricket fans were hoping for when India landed on these shores, but that doesn't make the Black Caps' Twenty20 triumph any less impressive.A four-run victory at Seddon Park in Hamilton tonight sealed a 2-1 series win, as New Zealand bounced back from their ODI humbling to become the first team to beat India in a Twenty20 series in 11 attempts.Yes, this was an achievement that no team had managed since 2017, and while India weren't at full strength, the destructive batting on show by some versatile players is something that should provide some confidence as the ODI World Cup looms.While neither will feature in the first two ODIs against Bangladesh this week, Colin Munro and Tim Seifert both made their cases as potentially devastating squad options to take to the World Cup, once again combining for an innings-defining stand at the top of the order.Considering the Black Caps can't buy an opening partnership in ODI cricket, it's curious, though likely coincidental, that they have twice now blazed dominant beginnings at the top of the order in Twenty20s.Seifert proved his innings in Wellington wasn't a fluke with a bold 43 from 25 balls, before he fell, stumped, and potentially victim to another controversial replay decision, with debate over whether his foot was planted behind the line.Was Tim Seifert out? Photo / SKYRegardless, it was still a splendid platform set when he departed at 80-1 in the eighth over, and while Kane Williamson's insistence on early strike rotation was completely unnecessary with nine wickets in hand, Munro again showed why he is such an alluring option in short formats, blasting 72 from 40 balls.Williamson did manage to pick things up, nursing some of his trademark classic fours in his knock of 27 from 21 balls, before handing over to the hitters to finish off the innings.They, too, did their job. Colin de Grandhomme made it back-to-back contributions with 30 from 16 balls, before Daryl Mitchell (19* from 11) and Ross Taylor (14* from seven) saw the hosts set 213 for victory.Colin de Grandhomme made another handy contribution. Photo / PhotosportIt seemed like enough – only four times had a total higher than 212 been chased down in a Twenty20 international – and when Shikhar Dhawan was caught in the deep off Mitchell Santner's bowling in the first over, India's task was made even tougher.However, first Vijay Shankar (43 from 28 balls), then Rishabh Pant (28 from 12) took a liking to the bowling of Ish Sodhi, as India rattled along at a fast rate. Crucially though, the required run rate never dropped below 10 an over, and some comparatively restrictive bowling from Mitchell and debutant Blair Tickner ensured the chase remained exceptionally challenging.The pair claimed a vital wicket apiece in the middle overs, with Rohit Sharma's struggles (38 off 32) ended by Mitchell, while Tickner removed Pant with a slower full toss, ensuring India could never get on top.Hardik Pandya briefly threatened, blasting 21 from 11 balls, but cameos weren't enough, and as the required run rate got higher, India were left needing 48 from 18 balls for victory.Three balls later, that equation was a much more manageable 33 from 15, and some further lusty blows from Dinesh Karthik and Krunal Pandya produced a jittery finish, with 16 required from the final over.However, Tim Southee held his nerve at the death, to kill India's unbeaten run.
It may have been his ninth Twenty20 international, but Tim Seifert truly introduced himself on the world stage on Wednesday night.Seifert smacked a stellar 84 from 43 balls to lead the Black Caps to an 80-run victory — the largest defeat in India's Twenty20 history, and one that puts them on the precipice of a rare series defeat.Elevated to the top of the order, Seifert made the most of an opportunity he hadn't received in his international career to date. Of his seven Twenty20 knocks for the Black Caps before tonight, five saw him bat at seven or lower in the order, and he had compiled just 42 runs.On Wednesday night, he doubled that, in a splendid knock reminiscent of Brendon McCullum. It's somewhat an easy comparison – they're similar in stature, and both wicketkeepers, but Seifert was also just as aggressive, charging down the crease and flat-batting screaming sixes to all corners of Westpac Stadium.With support from Colin Munro (34 from 20 balls) and Kane Williamson (34 from 22), Seifert set a platform that allowed free reign for the hitters that followed to cash in, and they did, reaching 219-6 – the highest score at Westpac Stadium, and highest by any team against India since 2016.After New Zealand's opening struggles in ODIs – having not recorded a fifty partnership in over a year – Seifert and Munro came out and bashed 85 from the first eight overs in the first of three T20s. They had some luck – there's always some luck in this format – but Seifert was in fine form, picking up anything that drifted into his pads on his way to seven fours and six sixes.It was hardly a surprise that Seifert was capable of such destruction – he owns the fastest T20 century in New Zealand – but with the 24-year-old having an outside chance of making the ODI World Cup squad as keeping and batting cover, it was a timely reminder.So, too, was Tim Southee's bowling, after he sat out the last four one-dayers. With India chasing 220, they needed a fast start, but Southee remarkably went for just two runs from his first two overs, and picked up the key wicket of Rohit Sharma.Without two of the world's best Twenty20 batsmen – Virat Kohli (average of 49.2 at a strike rate of 136) and KL Rahul (43.4 at 148), India didn't have their usual firepower, and when Mitchell Santner took two wickets in three balls, they needed a miracle.They didn't get it, Southee finishing with 3-17, with India - who are unbeaten in their last 10 Twenty20 series' – now on the brink of their first series defeat since 2017.
Black Caps' paceman Seth Rance couldn't offer up much of an explanation following their loss to Pakistan.Gary Stead's side fell to their third straight Twenty20 defeat at the hands of Pakistan, and there were familiar themes running throughout the loss.It was a third straight game where the Black Caps wasted a superb innings with the bat, a third time they couldn't make the most of a brief period of pressure with the ball, and shambolic run outs made unlucky appearance number three.This time, it was a stellar innings from Kane Williamson which was left unsupported, as the Black Caps fell to an eventual 47-run defeat, losing the series 3-0, and suffering their ninth defeat in their last 10 Twenty20 clashes.Williamson was at his ball-striking, innovative best in a masterclass in timing, crafting 60 from 38 balls as he dragged his side back into the clash after the loss of two early wickets.Chasing a challenging 167 for victory, Williamson gave the Black Caps a sniff. In dire straits at 32-2 in the eighth over – and Williamson scratching around on 14 off 17 balls – he rapidly accelerated, taking apart Pakistan's star spinning duo of Shadab Khan and Imad Wasim.Balls were flayed to the boundary with beautiful precision, mixing two powerful sixes with some more sedately slayed fours, as for the first time, a successful chase looked plausible.Then, the Pakistan spinners got their revenge, and the Black Caps collapsed.From 96-2, the visitors slumped to 119 all out after Williamson couldn't clean Babar Azam at long-on off Shadab's bowling. Glenn Phillips needed to take over, but he fall two balls later for 26, and it got worse from there, with six wickets falling in 17 balls as the Black Caps' batsmen couldn't keep pace with the required rate.Tim Seifert picked up his second golden duck of the series, then Tim Southee was run out without facing a ball; adding to Colin De Grandhomme's horrendous run out earlier in the innings as Pakistan ripped through the tail.It all culminated in another missed opportunity – something the Black Caps bowling attack will specifically be ruing after letting Pakistan off the hook once again.The bowlers have been somewhat found lacking this series, failing to possess the wicket-taking threat required to fully apply pressure on a composed and experienced Pakistan batting lineup.This time, the seam attack of Seth Rance, Southee and Lockie Ferguson executed the opening overs perfectly – bowling smartly into the pads of the Pakistan openers and restricting them to 38-1 after seven overs.However, the slower bowlers couldn't match their quicker counterparts. Ish Sodhi took a battering from Mohammed Hafeez (53*) and only bowled two overs, and the medium pace offerings of De Grandhomme (2-41) and Colin Munro (0-21 from 2) were ruthlessly put away by Azam.Azam became the fastest player to 1000 Twenty20 runs, perfectly timing his innings with 79 from 58 balls, and completely removing the pressure that had been applied earlier in the innings as the hosts eased through to 166-3.In the end, once Williamson's resurgence was vanquished, that proved more than enough for Pakistan to continue their dominance and send the Black Caps to what is becoming a familiar feeling in this format – defeat.LISTEN ABOVE AS SETH RANCE SPEAKS WITH RADIO SPORT
As far as introductions to international cricket go, spare a thought for new Black Caps coach Gary Stead.Hired as Mike Hesson's successor in August, Stead gets his first chance to showcase his imprint on the national side as they return from a seven-month hiatus tomorrow morning with a Twenty20 against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.While Pakistan may not have the name recognition or fear factor possessed by the likes of India or South Africa, it's impossible to find a more dominant stretch than that produced by Mickey Arthur's men in the shortest format over the past two years.General consensus would insist that Twenty20 is easily cricket's most unpredictable format, but Pakistan are coming close to completely quashing that theory. In their last 30 T20 outings, Pakistan have remarkably only suffered four losses; in the process reeling off 10 consecutive series victories.It's no surprise they are ranked the world's best T20 side - having taken over from the Black Caps in January - and just last week swatted aside Australia in a crushing 3-0 series sweep.At the heart of their success has been the ability to deftly use the conditions of their makeshift home base. The UAE pitches favour slow bowlers, with scores in the 150s usually a competitive total.Australia found that out the hard way. Set 156, 148 and 151 to win, they could muster only 89, 136-8 and 117, as Pakistan's wily bowlers tied them down.In Imad Wasim and 20-year-old legspinner Shadab Khan, Pakistan have two of the world's best T20 bowlers, and lest you think they don't have batting firepower, Babar Azam has risen to the top of the T20 batting world rankings, averaging an absurd 56.6 at a strike rate of 126.All up, it presents a serious challenge for a Black Caps side relying on some inexperienced faces.Martin Guptill, Trent Boult and Mitchell Santner are all missing, leaving opportunities for the likes of young trio Mark Chapman, Glenn Phillips and Tim Seifert to step up.A lot will also depend on whether Colin Munro can deliver at the top of the order, and the destructive hitter is aware of the daunting task lying in wait tomorrow morning."It's a big challenge - especially in these conditions and with a few guys coming straight out of winter and not having played a lot of cricket," said Munro."They're usually lower wickets here and a little bit slower - we saw in the Aussie series that it's a little bit lower than back home."But even in these conditions, if we play to our potential, we can beat anyone on the day."Considering Pakistan's recent dominance, there's little doubt that to win the series, the Black Caps will have to fully deliver on that potential.
Black Caps cricketer Colin Munro joins Radio Sport Breakfast and explained why he is glad he made the decision to ditch red ball cricket ahead of a big summer of ODIs and T20s.LISTEN ABOVE AS COLIN MUNRO SPEAKS TO RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST
Former Black Cap and Radio Sport analyst Jeetan Patel thinks Colin Munro needs to temper his aggression at the start of his innings' in ODI cricket.Patel also says that the Black Caps won't win an ODI match unless three or four players stand up.
Former Black Cap and Radio Sport analyst Jeetan Patel thinks Colin Munro needs to temper his aggression at the start of his innings' in ODI cricket.Patel also says that the Black Caps won't win an ODI match unless three or four players stand up.
Black Caps opener Martin Guptill says the Black Caps 'were 50 or 60 runs short' against England last night.Guptill also touches on his opening partnership with Colin Munro, Ross Taylor's injury and what was behind all of the Black Caps' run-outs.
Black Caps opener Martin Guptill says the Black Caps 'were 50 or 60 runs short' against England last night.Guptill also touches on his opening partnership with Colin Munro, Ross Taylor's injury and what was behind all of the Black Caps' run-outs.
Radio Sport commentator on the win by England last night.He says Black Caps opener Colin Munro may need to change his approach to batting in ODIs."He's been given a license, let's be fair. You've got to be able to make good decisions and give yourself the chance to do that, that's the only thing I would say.READ MORE: Martin Guptill - We were 50 or 60 runs short"The two shots are very similar that he's got with, so there's a kind of a re-offending that he's got going on there. We just need to get more out of him."I would just encourage him to have a little pocket of time in order to just get the best value out of him, he's quite an important component in those first 10 overs."Coney says that when it pays off, it's brilliant but when it doesn't it puts a lot of pressure on Martin Guptill, especially when Kane Williamson isn't there.
Radio Sport commentator on the win by England last night.He says Black Caps opener Colin Munro may need to change his approach to batting in ODIs."He's been given a license, let's be fair. You've got to be able to make good decisions and give yourself the chance to do that, that's the only thing I would say.READ MORE: Martin Guptill - We were 50 or 60 runs short"The two shots are very similar that he's got with, so there's a kind of a re-offending that he's got going on there. We just need to get more out of him."I would just encourage him to have a little pocket of time in order to just get the best value out of him, he's quite an important component in those first 10 overs."Coney says that when it pays off, it's brilliant but when it doesn't it puts a lot of pressure on Martin Guptill, especially when Kane Williamson isn't there.
Blacks Caps T20 opener Colin Munro chats following the victory over England in Wellington last night. Asked if he would swap positions in the batting order with Kane Williamson, he said he’d be happy to… however, it’s not what Black Caps management wants.LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH D'ARCY ABOVE
Blacks Caps T20 opener Colin Munro chats following the victory over England in Wellington last night. Asked if he would swap positions in the batting order with Kane Williamson, he said he’d be happy to… however, it’s not what Black Caps management wants.LISTEN TO THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH D'ARCY ABOVE
Simon Doull gives Nate, Kent and Marc and his thoughts on the Black Caps' T20 series loss to Pakistan.Doully thinks Ross Taylor's aggressive style recently in T20 cricket has impressed the selectors, but the Black Caps need to work out the best way to bat with Martin Guptill, Colin Munro and Kane Williamson in the team.He also believes Guptill realises he is no longer an IPL target and that Mitchell McClenghan's career is sadly going backwards.LISTEN ABOVE AS SIMON DOULL SPEAKS WITH THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST
Simon Doull gives Nate, Kent and Marc and his thoughts on the Black Caps' T20 series loss to Pakistan.Doully thinks Ross Taylor's aggressive style recently in T20 cricket has impressed the selectors, but the Black Caps need to work out the best way to bat with Martin Guptill, Colin Munro and Kane Williamson in the team.He also believes Guptill realises he is no longer an IPL target and that Mitchell McClenghan's career is sadly going backwards.LISTEN ABOVE AS SIMON DOULL SPEAKS WITH THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST
Black Caps batsman Colin Munro spoke to Kent, Nate and Marc about his excellent form this summer.He admits that he had no idea he almost equalled the record for the most consecutive T20 fifties."When I got back into the shed yesterday, there was a text message saying I needed one more run to equal the record, but it doesn't really faze me too much."Munro acknowledged that he's matured as a player and he's now reaping the benefits, and he is also philosophical about his chances at the IPL next weekend.LISTEN ABOVE AS COLIN MUNRO SPEAKS WITH THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST
Black Caps batsman Colin Munro spoke to Kent, Nate and Marc about his excellent form this summer.He admits that he had no idea he almost equalled the record for the most consecutive T20 fifties."When I got back into the shed yesterday, there was a text message saying I needed one more run to equal the record, but it doesn't really faze me too much."Munro acknowledged that he's matured as a player and he's now reaping the benefits, and he is also philosophical about his chances at the IPL next weekend.LISTEN ABOVE AS COLIN MUNRO SPEAKS WITH THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST
Today on the show - parents who can't keep hands off each other, what did they pull out of you, Ray Lemoto, what have you won, Zack Franich, Colin Munro and George Worker, Rog's spray tanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Auckland Aces and Black Caps batsman Colin Munro joined D'Arcvy and Goran to talk about his scintillating 174 not out against Canterbury yesterday. He also touched on his Test cricket aspirations, which he appears to have given up on, despite some simply magnificent statistics to warrant selection.LISTEN TO COLIN MUNRO TALK WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN ABOVE
Auckland Aces and Black Caps batsman Colin Munro joined D'Arcvy and Goran to talk about his scintillating 174 not out against Canterbury yesterday. He also touched on his Test cricket aspirations, which he appears to have given up on, despite some simply magnificent statistics to warrant selection.LISTEN TO COLIN MUNRO TALK WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN ABOVE
The 2016 Mann Cup kicks off Friday in Six Nations, as the Chiefs host the Maple Ridge Burrards for the right hoist the Mann Cup. Six Nations was last in the Mann in 2014 while it's been 36 years for the Burrards, who appeared in 1990 as the Vancouver Burrards. Dillon Ward and Rob Williams join me to get everything set for Friday's game one. Also, Colin Munro from the Minto Cup winning Coquitlam Adanacs stops by from Colorado to talk about his incredible summer. All that and more, this week on OTCB.
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