Podcast appearances and mentions of Josh Hazlewood

The T20 World Cup is about to begin, but Australia start without Cummins, Starc or Hazlewood, raising bigger questions about depth, ageing fast bowlers and long-term planning across formats. Corbin and Ed unpack the tournament schedule, Australia's soft launch, and whether Cricket Australia has been clear enough about priorities in an era dominated by franchise leagues.They also debate World Cup expansion, Italy's unlikely qualification, and whether a 20-team tournament risks drifting too far from meaningful competition. Back home, the Sheffield Shield returns with 46 wickets falling on day one, sparking a sharp discussion about pitches, batting standards and early-season chaos.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, the latest in live fixtures with 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'

Is it really "Easy Street" for the Aussies? In this episode, Jack, Ross, and Max dive into the chaotic lead-up to the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, specifically dissecting the landmines waiting in Group B. After a bruising 3-0 series sweep at the hands of Pakistan, Australia arrive in Sri Lanka looking uncharacteristically vulnerable. With Pat Cummins officially ruled out due to a back injury and Josh Hazlewood set to miss the opening phase, Mitchell Marsh's side is suddenly leaning heavily on fresh faces like Ben Dwarshuis and Xavier Bartlett. Can Adam Zampa and a spin-heavy attack—including bolters Cooper Connolly and Matt Kuhnemann—carry the load on Colombo's turning tracks?. We also size up the competition. Co-hosts Sri Lanka are licking their lips at the prospect of an upset on home soil, while Sikandar Raza's Zimbabwe and a battle-hardened Ireland side are more than capable of crashing the Super 8 party. We ask the big questions: Is the aggressive "ultra-batting" mindset sustainable without their senior bowling core? And which of the "smaller" nations is most likely to provide the tournament's first massive "boilover"? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Corbin and Ed unpack a major World Cup flashpoint after the Pakistan government announced it will not allow the national team to play India, prompting ICC warnings and raising serious questions about power, politics and the future structure of international cricket. The pair examine what the standoff could mean for global revenues, Test nations, and the balance of influence in the game as the tournament approaches.Corbin and Ed ask is Australia's World Cup preparation on track following a heavy T20 series loss to Pakistan, injuries mounting, form dipping and selection calls under scrutiny, is this a genuine warning sign or simply a poorly timed stumble before the main event.The guys dive into domestic cricket, analysing Greg Shippard's departure from New South Wales, the pressure on performance leaders, and the ongoing tension between winning titles and producing Australian players, before wrapping with concerns around domestic scheduling and the return of the Sheffield Shield.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, the latest in live fixtures with 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'

Australia's T20 World Cup warm-ups are underway, but how much should we actually read into the results?Corbin and Ed unpack the loss to Pakistan, Australia's ongoing issues against spin, and what warm-up matches are really designed to reveal ahead of a major tournament. They dig into selection logic, role clarity, and the shrinking opportunities for fringe players as the World Cup squad takes shape. The conversation then broadens to a Big Bash wash-up, exploring player movement, draft and free-agency debates, and where the BBL could be heading next. The episode also covers ICC World Cup governance questions and a surprise captaincy call in Australian women's cricket, with Sophie Molineux appointed skipper and the implications of Ash Gardner being overlooked.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, the latest in live fixtures with 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 Perth Scorchers claim another Big Bash title and Corbin and Ed unpack what continues to set the competition's most successful club apart. The final, the pitch in Perth, and the Scorchers' tactical edge are all examined, alongside an honest assessment of the Sixers and their heavy reliance on Steve Smith.The discussion widens to the health of the BBL, including crowds, broadcast audiences, and the ongoing debate around scheduling and travel during finals. There is also a look at catching laws, replay culture, and how modern officiating is changing the live experience.Around the world, Bangladesh's exclusion from the upcoming World Cup raises bigger questions for the game's governance, while India's T20 dominance, England's rare away ODI win, and Australia's Under-19 progress round out a busy week in cricket.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, the latest in live fixtures with 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'

We are edging to the conclusion of a cracking season of BBL at the very same time Cricket Australia is readying to generate investment in the league.Ed and Corbin look at what's defined the season from an on field point of view,  from standout performances and game flow to how the tournament has connected with fans at key moments. With the final in view, the focus is on what makes the BBL work when it is at its best, and how the event sets the tone for the broader cricket calendar.Along the way, Corbin and Ed also widen the lens to touch on how the game is managed and communicated, and why trust, clarity, and letting the contest breathe matter as much off the field as on it.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, the latest in live fixtures with 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 Big Bash League is moving toward its finals phase and Steve Smith is once again at the centre of the conversation.Corbin and Ed unpack how the BBL is shaping up, which teams are finding form at the right time, and where the key match-ups are likely to land as the tournament tightens. Steve Smith's run of form sparks a broader discussion about selection, player power, and his place in Australia's white-ball plans.The episode also looks at Jake Fraser-McGurk's development, pitch conditions across the competition, and debates around presentation and kits. Beyond the BBL, the guys touch on New Zealand's success in India, changes to the Test calendar, county cricket moves, and what comes next for day-night Tests.Plus, a tribute to Alyssa Healy as Australia prepares for a new leadership era.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, the latest in live fixtures with 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'

With the Ashes done and January cricket in full swing, Corbin and Ed turn their focus to the Big Bash and what this season. They assess crowd momentum, the impact of Test players returning straight into T20 cricket, and how teams are shaping up as finals approach. There's a deep dive on emerging talent announcing themselves, veterans finding new life, and why form lines in this part of the summer matter more than they appear. The conversation widens to Australia's T20 World Cup frame, the role of overseas players, and where the domestic game sits in a global context as the season rolls on.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, the latest in live fixtures with 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'

Australia retain the Ashes with a 4–1 series win, but the margin tells only part of the story. Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan step back from the daily grind to assess how the series actually played out, from selection calls and tactical shifts to England's evolving approach and the standards that ultimately separated the sides.They revisit the moments that shaped the series, the Tests that elevated it and the ones that dragged it down, and what this Ashes revealed about where both teams are headed next, with an eye already on the road to 2027.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, the latest in live fixtures with 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'

Australia sealed the Ashes 4–1 with a composed five-wicket win on day five at the SCG, finishing the series in control when it mattered most.England's resistance ended early, losing their final two wickets for 40 as Mitchell Starc completed a defining series with 31 wickets. Chasing 160, Australia had a few untidy moments but were never seriously threatened, with Alex Carey striking the winning runs.Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan reflect on a series decided by moments. England had chances, but Australia consistently won the big ones. Travis Head's 600-plus runs shaped the series, Starc earned Player of the Series, and Usman Khawaja was farewelled in his final Test at the SCG.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'

Jacob Bethell gave England something they have lacked for much of this series: belief.Arriving at the SCG without a first-class century to his name, the 22-year-old played an innings defined by control, patience, and authority, announcing himself on the Ashes stage and dragging England back into a contest that had been slipping away.Australia still hold the upper hand, but Beau Webster again underlined his growing importance. His unbeaten 71 rescued Australia's innings, before he returned to take wickets with off-spin, including the key dismissal of Ben Stokes, on a surface offering more than expected.Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan unpack the day and set up the final act of the Ashes at the SCG, where Australia will be presented the urn.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'

Travis Head set the tone early, igniting the match with another decisive hundred that lifted the tempo and left England exposed. Once Head departed, Steve Smith took over, delivering a century built on discipline, patience, and total control. It was vintage Smith, marked by patience, clarity, and an absolute refusal to take the bait, as Australia seized command of day three.Corbin and Ed then turned to the man of the series debate, weighing Mitchell Starc's wickets against Head's match-shaping hundreds, before deciding the conversation could wait.Australia's depth again became a key talking point. Cameron Green's frustration after another start without a defining score was contrasted with Beau Webster's calm, accomplished contribution, while Usman Khawaja's dismissal was not the farewell many fans had hoped for in his final Test.The discussion closed with a blunt assessment of England's unravelling, with missed chances, mounting pressure, and fading confidence defining a day that increasingly felt one-sided.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'

England had the chance to bat Australia out of the contest on a high-quality SCG wicket, but despite a superb 160 from Joe Root, they failed to fully capitalise, leaving the door open once again.Root's innings was the class act of the day, controlled, chanceless, and warmly received by the SCG crowd. Yet from a position of dominance, England were dismissed for a total that felt light given the conditions, missing the opportunity to put the game beyond Australia's reach.Australia responded through Travis Head, whose aggressive, authoritative batting shifted momentum back toward the home side. On a surface offering an even contest between bat and ball, England will look back at day two as a moment where control was available but not taken. Australia, as they have throughout the series, remain standing.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'

England finished day one of the fifth Ashes Test firmly on top after play at the SCG was called off early, leaving a sense that both the cricket and the crowd were short-changed.After winning the toss and batting first, England reached 3 for 211 from just 45 overs, with Joe Root 72 not out and Harry Brook 78 not out building an unbroken stand that Australia struggled to break. The pair batted with control and clarity, cashing in on a surface that looked good early and is expected to deteriorate as the Test wears on.Corbin and Ed focus on Australia's selection, with no frontline spinner named at the SCG for the first time since 1888. The decision loomed larger as the day progressed, raising questions about how Australia will control the game once the pitch begins to break up later in the Test.Bad light, followed by rain, brought an early end to play. While the series is already decided, England leave day one with momentum, and Australia with questions, both about the match and the shape of the team moving forward.Day two begins early, with England well placed and the spotlight firmly on how Australia respond.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'

Usman Khawaja announces his retirement, Corbin and Ed reflect on a career that spanned eras, conditions, and expectations. They unpack his late-career peak, the scrutiny that followed him, and the comments that surfaced again around preparation, media pressure, and how players are judged as they age.Attention then turns to the SCG. The weather, the pitch narrative, and the recent run of shortened Tests come under examination, alongside the selection calls that still matter despite the series being decided. Todd Murphy's case, the balance of the XI, and the pressure points across the top seven are all in play.There's also a look at Australia's T20 World Cup squad, who missed out, and what the balance says about conditions and roles, before a full Big Bash wrap and a final dive into the Ashes numbers that underline just how unusual this series has been.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 two-day Boxing Day Test continues to spark a wider conversation about the state of Test cricket. Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan begin in Melbourne, unpacking the fallout at the MCG, Matt Page facing the media, and how a Test meant to anchor the summer instead triggered public unease, with one listener summing it up starkly as “the death of Test cricket.”The discussion then moves through the financial cost of shortened Tests and why, as Cowan puts it, “it's not a slow slippery slope, it's a snowball,” before turning to the Big Bash, where a potential sale is unpacked through the realities of revenue distribution and governance, and why those decisions now sit at the centre of cricket's future. Attention finally shifts to Sydney, where the unexpected spotlight falls on SCG curator Adam Lewis, and what Ed says there is “a lot riding on this Test.” Cricket always finds room for the absurd, it ends with an unlikely opening partnership: Salt and Pepper.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'

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'

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'

Four absolute pillars of Australian cricket! The skipper Pat Cummins, the second-highest wicket-taker in Australian Test history Nathan Lyon, and the fast-bowling enforcers Mitch Starc and Josh Hazlewood. More than 1,500 Test wickets between them, countless Ashes stories, and a bond forged through years of shared spells, shared planes and shared pressure. We hear from the four great mates like never before. From first memories of each other, Ashes moments, and the stats that actually matter inside the change rooms. It’s relaxed, honest and full of laughs. Plenty of banter, plenty of insight, and a rare look behind the curtain at the group that led Australia’s Ashes defence. An early Christmas present for Howie Games listeners and cricket tragics alike.Hope you love it as much as Howie does.

The guys step back from the daily wrap to confront what the series result now unlocks. “We've now got lots of selection debates,” Cowan says, and few are bigger than Usman Khawaja's role, Josh Inglis' opportunity, and how much weight selectors place on decisions already made.With Pat Cummins set to rest, Steve Smith a likely return, and Nathan Lyon unavailable, the guys also dig into the spinner question, the case for Bo Webster, and how Australia balance investment versus reward now that the series is decided.Beyond the Ashes, there's time for a wild Big Bash run chase, designated hitter debates, and the IPL auction fallout.The urn is secure. The thinking is just getting started.Corbin joins from Perth with a travel-damaged mic after Adelaide celebrations. Same opinions, slightly rougher audio.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'

Australia sealed the Ashes in Adelaide by staying patient long enough for England to defeat themselves.For a moment on day five, with wickets in hand and runs still on the board, the chase felt alive. But Australia never panicked and, as Ed Cowan explains, every time England edged towards belief, they handed momentum straight back.England played their best cricket when they showed restraint, and lost it when they didn't.Australia trusted time, conditions, and discipline, waited for the mistakes, and closed out the series without needing to force the result. The composure of this Australian squad stood out again, with Pat Cummins setting the tone with calm leadership, Scott Boland finishing with relentless discipline, and Marnus Labuschagne finding ways to influence the game beyond the bat.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'

Australia tightened their grip on the third Ashes Test on day four, leaving England 228 runs away with just four wickets in hand as the match heads into a decisive final day. With special guest Stuart Clark joining Corbin Middlemas, the mood was one of inevitability. As Corbin put it, “the shorthand of the day is that Australia are on the cusp of victory.”Nathan Lyon was central to that squeeze, ripping through England's middle order in a decisive evening spell. Clark summed it up succinctly: “Lyon had them in a spin in that final session,” triggering a collapse that tilted the match firmly Australia's way. Pat Cummins again underlined his value, striking before and after the breaks and dismissing Joe Root for the 13th time in Tests. “He's a freal, your strike bowler and your workhorse,” Clark said.The conversation also turned to England's shifting approach, with Bazball increasingly shelved under sustained pressure. Clark was blunt in assessment: “Bad planning. Bad preparation. What did they think was going to happen?”With four wickets left and history stacked against them, England face a final-day climb Australia expect to finish.ABC Grandstand cricket commentator Corbin Middlemas is joined by special guest Stuart Clark 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'

Day three in Adelaide belonged to Travis Head. A century soaked in pressure, nerves at 99, a dropped chance, and another moment added to the legend at his home ground.Australia's lead has blown past 350, England are running out of answers, and Ed is ready to call the series. Corbin and Ed unpack Head's dominance, England's quiet retreat from Bazball, Stokes carrying too much, and the selection questions simmering beneath Australia's control.Even the technology had a better day, after a rough start to the series.Day four awaits, and the pressure is on.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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'

Australia ground England into the dust in brutal 40-degree heat, building relentless pressure and leaving them hanging on. Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan highlight Alex Carey's five catches, sparking a broader question about England's approach and whether, in Cowan's words, “they're as skilful as they think they are.”They work through individual performances in England's attack, from Jofra Archer's outstanding moments to others who struggled, before turning to key match-ups including Pat Cummins' ongoing duel with Joe Root, and the growing DRS and Snicko controversy. With technology again under scrutiny, the guys summed it up simply: “Technology is better than it's ever been – but it's not perfect.”Listener feedback, selection philosophy, and execution under pressure all come into focus as Australia continue to look repeatable, composed, and ruthless.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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'

Australia hold the early edge after Day One in Adelaide, finishing on a surface that, as Ed put it, “looked tennis-bally” and made scoring off the front foot hard work. Corbin and Ed break down the dismissals, uneven bowling, and why conditions are likely to ease as the Test unfolds.The guys talk Alex Carey's century, the impact of Steve Smith's late withdrawal, Usman Khawaja's recall and 82, and the looming influence of Mitch Starc once Australia take the ball.With a record crowd, big tactical questions ahead, and, in Cowan's words, “a proper day of Test cricket” in the books, the verdict is clear: the game is alive, but Australia are slightly ahead.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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'

England arrive in Adelaide facing a must-win Test, but the odds are stacked. Australia have lost just once in their last 11 Tests, and only one team in the 149-year history of Test cricket has ever come back from 2–0 down.Brendon McCullum backs continuity, rejecting “knee-jerk” selection calls. Bashir and Tongue remain in the frame, with Ed noting Bashir could be “more effective on day one in Adelaide than at any other point in the series.” The batting order looks locked in, but Ed warns it's “a hard bet that it just turns around.”Corbin's been doing the calculations, and the numbers show this red-ball Adelaide Test is far tougher for batters than the pink-ball version. Ed explains why: “The ball can get caught in the grass and bounce more slowly - it almost feels like you're facing a tennis ball,” making the toss and bowling first crucial.They also discuss a rare India–Pakistan umpiring pairing, ongoing Australian selection debates, preview the BBL where Perth's list stands out, and wrap up with the Hurricanes dominating the WBBL final as Lizelle Lee stars and Elyse Villani signs off in style. It's a packed episode across the wide world of cricket.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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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 Bazballers have been re-charging in Noosa and the series is on the line in Adelaide. What levers can Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes pull to keep the tourists alive in the Ashes? Usman Khawaja is available for selection. Will he find a place in the middle order? Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon loom as inclusions, who will be discarded in their place? And what made Ed Cowan "spew in my mouth"? Ed and Corbin Middlemas address these issues as well as the BBL and WBBL. PLUS, your questions answered in the listener mailbag. 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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'

Die Australiese snelbouler, Josh Hazlewood, is weens ʼn besering nie beskikbaar vir die res van die reeks om die As nie. Hy het verlede maand sy dyspier seergemaak in Australië se Sheffield Shield-kompetisie. Hazlewood het verlede week nog ʼn terugslag gehad toe hy sy haksening beseer het. Australië loop tans met 2-0 voor teen Engeland in die reeks om die As. Hazlewood sê hy is gefrustreerd omdat hy nie kan speel nie:

While Australia sit 2-0 up in the series, the guys dig into whether England have fallen into an “exaggerated sense of their own ability” as they enjoy their “reset in Noosa” ahead of the third test.It took Stokes and Jacks finally “playing properly” on the last day for England to show any real fight, and Corbin and Ed explore whether that flicker of resistance tells us anything or simply exposes a team that is, in Ed's words, “just not very good”.Selection changes feel inevitable for England, with Archer's effort labelled “a pathetic test”, Jacks battling to hold his place and Bashir's absence becoming harder to explain.Back to Australia, the lads also touch on the players who seem to vanish at the edges of selection talk, with Beau Webster slipping under what Corbin jokingly frames as an “invisibility cloak.” plus is Australia's depth so strong that fringe players can disappear from view for months and still be closer to a baggy green than anyone in England's touring squad.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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'

2-0 after two Tests. A commanding performance delivers a clinical win. Neser top five wickets, Smith took a screamer, Stokes was brave but couldn't hold back Australia.Archer clashed with Smith in an odd clash late, but in the end it was Australia with a decisive lead.Join Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan as they explore the key moments and what this 2-0 lead means for the rest of the series.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, Corbin and Trent are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'

Mitchell Starc is constructing an Ashes masterpiece. His defiant batting led Australia to a vital lead as England unravelled with the ball. The veteran bowler then turned it on with the pink ball to leave England teetering on the brink. Trent Copeland joins Corbin Middlemas to unpack another eventful day from Brisbane.ABC Grandstand cricket commentator Corbin Middlemas is joined by Trent Copeland 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, Corbin and Trent are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'

Australia in control, but England hangs on. Another rollercoaster day of action as Weatherald arrives, England fights, and the Test hangs in the balance.Dropped catches, botched opportunities and more. Simplification? Probably, yet we enter a crucial day three poised evenly and delicately.Across the 2025-26 Ashes series, 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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'.

Ooft. A rollicking day of momentum shifts leaves the second Test evenly poised. Joe Root scored a maiden Aussie hundred. Nathan Lyon was overlooked in astonishing scenes. Mitchell Starc did Mitchell Starc things. Joffra Archer went bonkers with the bat. A wild day one at the GABBA? Just your average day of Test cricket in Brisbane. Corbin and Ed pull it apart.Across the 2025-26 Ashes series, 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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'

Usman Khawaja has unloaded on the Perth pitch. How justified is the spicy criticism and how much is reputation management? The opener is racing to be fit, but the conversation has centred on whether Travis Head should open. The South Australian believes batting orders are overrated and Pat Cummins agrees. Steve Smith is trialling NFL style ‘eye black' will it make a difference? One factor that will matter is the absence of English tearaway Mark Wood, the boys discuss how England could adapt their approach in Brisbane.PLUS, the team hit international cricket, Sheffield Shield and Ellyse Perry doing Ellyse Perry things in the WBBL.Across the 2025-26 Ashes series, 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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'

Ed and Corb assess Pat Cummins' likely pink-ball return but how will Australia rotate their quicks with Hazlewood waiting in the wings and selection pressure building fast? Mitch Marsh comeback chat gets a reality check, while the pair unpack Matt Renshaw's backing of Usman Khawaja and what it really means for Australia's opening future.Elsewhere, one player can now decide a Test in a single session with Travis Head showing exactly how in Perth. Is this suddenly a risk for Australia in Brisbane?Plus: the Gabba looms as a swing-fest, the Sheffield Shield pressure gauge rises as Victoria lead, NSW wobble, and selection headaches deepen — and off the field, the financial pressure on Test cricket leaves CA heading into another uncertain summer.Across the 2025-26 Ashes series, 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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.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'

Ed and Corb go big in person with the faithful in Sydney. Who will retire by end of series (hint: maybe Australians)? Opening conundrums? England's ego on trial, what's the verdict?Across the 2025-26 Ashes series, 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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.Catch every episode of ‘The ABC Cricket Podcast,' hosted by Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan 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'.

As England reckons with a humbling series defeat, the commitment to the Bazball ethos seemingly remains intact within the group. Ed and Corbin analyse the refusal to learn lessons from Perth and what that might mean for the team's hierarchy. The team marvels at Travis Head's historic innings and dig into the left hander's importance before unpacking Usman Khawaja's short term future. Across the 2025-26 Ashes series, 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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.Catch every episode of ‘The ABC Cricket Podcast,' hosted by Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan 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'.For tickets and live show info: https://ab.co/436QAJx

Australia claim a volatile series opener after a Travis Head batting masterpiece capitalised on brilliant bowling from Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland. What now for England and what next for injured Usman Khawaja? Ed Cowan joins Corbin Middlemas from Perth.Across the 2025-26 Ashes series, ABC Grandstand cricket commentator Corbin Middlemas is joined by Trent Copeland 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, Corbin and Trent are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.Catch every episode of ‘The ABC Cricket Podcast,' hosted by Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan 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'.

19 wickets, 300 runs and pure chaos in Perth. Mitch Starc took seven, Ben Stokes grabbed five, Usman Khawaja's back spasms dislocated Australia's batting and Wood-Archer made Australia sweat.Across the 2025-26 Ashes series, ABC Grandstand cricket commentator Corbin Middlemas is joined by Trent Copeland 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, Corbin and Trent are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.Catch every episode of ‘The ABC Cricket Podcast,' hosted by Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan 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'.

Neil Manthorp is joined by the former England fast bowler Steve Harmison to discuss the week's biggest stories. They discuss England's warm-up game for the Ashes & what they've learnt from the match at Lilac Hill. CODE Sports' Chief Cricket Writer Ben Horne reflects on the huge injury news out of Ashes, with Josh Hazlewood set to miss the first Ashes Test. South Africa spinner Simon Harmer joins the show to reflect on their historic 30-run win against India, whilst ESPNCricinfo's Sidharth Monga dissects another Test defeat at home to Gambhir's side. Plus, they round up the week's biggest stories, and bring you The Final Word. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's Ashes week! Butch, Jo, Phil and Yas discuss South Africa's thrilling victory against India, the news that Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the first Test, England's warm-up game, their possible XI for Perth and more. 0:00 Timothy Taylor's / 0:35 Intro / 1:24 India vs South Africa / 15:06 Mark Butcher / 39:58 Lord's ballot / 40:43 Josh Hazlewood / 45:55 Brendan Doggett / 51:29 FREE WCM Ashes special / 52:56 Patreon / 53:50 Nightwatchman Quiz / 54:58 Important listener update / 57:28 England / 1:10:01 Predictions / 1:23:36 Cricket 26 / 1:38:45 Outro

Corbin and Ed go deep in their Ashes preview as Australia's injury predicament deepens. With three quicks sidelined, we unpack how Australia will manage its attack as a Brendan Doggett debut looms. Corbin asks Ed to pick who might have a bigger impact with the bat, Travis Head or Harry Brook? The pair make their predictions for the first Test and the series as a whole, before checking in on the WBBL. Across the 2025-26 Ashes series, ABC Grandstand cricket commentator Corbin Middlemas is joined by former Test opener Ed Cowan to bring you the latest 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, Corbin and Ed are here to keep you up to date on the game in Australia and abroad.Catch every episodes of ‘The ABC Cricket Podcast,' hosted by Corbin Middlemas and Ed Cowan 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'.

Jonathan Agnew and Stephan Shemilt are in Perth where the men's Ashes begins in just 5 days' time. Ollie Pope joins us to talk about the pressure of cementing his number three slot and losing the vice captaincy to Harry Brook. Former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie discusses the loss of Josh Hazlewood and a possible Ashes debut for Brendan Doggett and Aggers shares memories of previous Perth visits including playing tennis with the England captain and being seconded to bowl at England players in the nets.

Rob Jones is joined by Jacqui Oatley, Martin Samuel and Julien Laurens to reflect on the weekend's sporting action.We begin by looking at England's unbeaten World Cup qualification. But is Jacqui right to think that, while praise is due, Tuchel's real test will be winning the tournament itself?Attention then turns to Scotland. After their 3–2 loss to Greece, everything now comes down to Tuesday night at Hampden, where they host Denmark and hope to top the group with a win.We move on to Wales, who beat Liechtenstein to draw level on points with second-placed North Macedonia and now look to reach the play-offs by beating them on Tuesday.Next, we turn to England's impressive win against the All Blacks. Martin highlights George Ford's two drop goals in a 33–19 performance that indicates Steve Borthwick's approach is bearing fruit.We're then joined by Adam Collins to preview the Ashes. With just five days to go, Australia are without both Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, and Adam believes the key will be how quickly England hit the ground running.And finally, we're joined by Rob Dorsett, who discusses all things England with John Cross and Jason Burt in Tirana ahead of Albania v England.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

The Aussie Ashes squad is in and the countdown is well and truly on. We dive into one of the great unspoken pillars of elite sport: feedback, and how the best in the world learn to live with it. Across early-morning entries, late-night reflections and a couple of classic check-ins, Mitch Starc and Alex Carey take us inside the mental side of cricket at the absolute highest level. Mitch opens up about the flood of external attention and how he’s learned over his journey to sort the white noise from the gold. From the best feedback he’s ever received, to the lessons that have shaped a decade of international cricket, Mitch is honest, raw and razor sharp. Then it’s Alex Carey’s turn. Kez walks us through the aftermath of that Bairstow moment, the noise that followed, and the feedback that mattered most. He shares how he processed it all. And just when you think the boys are cruising toward Ashes camp… chaos. Mitch takes us into a crucial Sheffield Shield hit-out - a key milestone in his final prep - only for the match to unravel with hamstring injuries to Josh Hazlewood and Sean Abbott. It’s the full reality of elite cricket one week out from the biggest series on earth. Lock in. The final countdown is on. And we are in seat 1A! *** Ashes Diaries release schedule. Subscribe to the Howie Games feed so you don’t miss an episode! Monday October 20 - Episode 1 - Rivalry Friday October 24 - Episode 2 - Ouch Monday October 27 - Episode 3 - A Numbers Game Friday October 31 - Episode 4 - Lights, Camera, Action Monday November 3 - Episode 5 - Dad Friday November 7 - Episode 6 - Do What You Love Monday November 10 - Episode 7 - Nice Garry Friday November 14 - Episode 8 - Roulette Monday November 17 - Episode 9 Tuesday November 25 - Episode 10 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy, Jamie, Raj and Stu look ahead to the 2025-26 Ashes series between Australia and England. As usual, the Ashes hype machine has been in overdrive in recent months, but the cricket is finally (almost) here and the Top Order team are fizzing. We talk squads and potential line ups, key players and matchups, grounds and conditions, storylines to watch for and make our predictions for the series. How much will the Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood injuries hurt Australia? How excited are the English to unleash Jofra Archer and Mark Wood on an under-pressure Australian top order? Will Joe Root and Steve Smith imprint their class on the series? Will Nathan Lyon have an impact? Is it Scott Boland's time to shine? Can Harry Brook Bazball Australia to dust? Or will Marnus Labuschagne bounce back in a big way? And can Ben Stokes' boys etch their name into history on Aussie soil? Or will Steve Smith, Pat Cummins & co. inspire another victory for green-and-gold? There's all that and plenty more as we preview a series that's set to provide entertainment galore over the coming weeks. We'll be back in your feed regularly throughout this series to review/preview games and catch up on what's happening elsewhere in the world, including India v South Africa and Black Caps v West Indies. Until then please take the time to give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (@toporderpod on Twitter & Facebook, and @thetoporderpodcast on Instagram & YouTube) 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. You can also dip back into our guest episodes - including conversations with Mike Hesson, Shane Bond and Mike Hussey, current players such as Matt Henry, Sophie Devine and Ish Sodhi, coaches Gary Stead, Jeetan Patel and Luke Wright, as well as Barry Richards, Frankie Mackay, 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. 0:00 Intro 2:00 Potential lineups for first Test - questions for Australia? 14:55 How will England manage their seamers through the series? 23:55 Has Australia won the preparation battle? 36:25 How will Australia's top order respond to pressure? 48:50 Key matchups: Nathan Lyon v England's middle order 54:20 Jofra Archer, Travis Head, Harry Brook, Joe Root 58:10 Mitchell Starc, Ben Duckett, captaincy 1:02:20 What can we expect from the pitches? 1:09:20 Predictions: Who will win The Ashes? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia has been rocked on the eve of the Ashes with confirmation that Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the First Test, joining Pat Cummins on the sidelines. In this emergency episode, Menners breaks down what the injury means for Australia, how England will respond, and the huge opportunity now in front of Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and debut contender Brendan Doggett. He also explores selection headaches, England's shaky preparation, and whether this surprise turn of events could flip the pressure onto Ben Stokes' side. Plus: why Doggett's potential debut is historically significant and some weekend viewing tips featuring Steve Smith and Kevin Pietersen. 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.

England captain Ben Stokes has been speaking to the TMS pod ahead of his side's three-day game against an England Lions team on Thursday in Perth. He tells chief cricket reporter Stephan Shemilt how England will go "balls to the wall" in the match tomorrow after "has-beens" questioned their limited preparation in Australia. Steph is also joined by cricket journalist Rory Dollard and the pair discuss Josh Hazlewood being cleared to join Australia's squad for the first Test and captain Pat Cummins being out. The BBC will be providing 24/7 coverage of The Ashes, with full audio commentary on Test Match Special and 5 Live Breakfast at the Ashes, a live text service, a full highlights programme and the TMS Daily Ashes digest on iPlayer. Plus, the daily TMS podcast, extensive coverage across social media and a visualised Tailenders at the end of every Test.

Australia v India, 1st ODI, Perth: They're back, the big dogs who retired from Tests in Australia earlier this year after flaming out in that format. Their return in one-dayers failed at the first attempt, with Josh Hazlewood and Mitch Starc taking the honours before the run of rain delays that made this match a weird one. Is it even viable for players to be ODI specialists in this day and age? Bharat Sundaresan joins Geoff Lemon. You can pre-order the Final Word book now: ⁠linktr.ee/TFWBook⁠ Support the show with a Nerd Pledge at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/thefinalword⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn about Lacuna Sports - bespoke female cricket wear, created by women for women:⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠lacunasports.co.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 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