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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.
Australia retain the Ashes in record time and the reaction from England is every bit as messy as their cricket. Menners tears into Ben Stokes, Bazball spin, and the latest round of “moral victory” nonsense, before turning to Australia's Boxing Day Ashes squad announcement. With injuries to Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins, the episode breaks down the logic behind the selections, the options for Melbourne, and how Australia might balance their XI at the MCG. There's also praise for Cummins' leadership, frustration with Cricket Australia decisions, and a couple of classic “Can't Let It Go” moments as the Boxing Day Test looms. England's Ashes meltdown: Stokes, excuses, and moral victories (1:02) Australia announce Boxing Day squad: Lyon out, Murphy in, Cummins sidelined (7:10) MCG XI debate: batting order, Green, Inglis, and bowling balance (14:25) Can't Let It Go: Day 5 ticketing and the overloaded international calendar (20:55) 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.
In a calamitous episode all around Jamie, Baldy, and Raj wrap up the Ashes far too early in the Southern Hemisphere summer. While England were (more) competitive in the final two days in Adelaide the native South Australians in Travis Head and Alex Carey won the day meaning Australia retained the urn in 11 days. Baldy - ruthless as ever - still wasn't totally satisfied and struggles to come to terms with what to do with Cameron Green, and who replaces the irreplaceable* Nathan Lyon. For England, the questions go much deeper. Given that they looked much more competitive without an all-out attack mindset, what does Jamie think about their style of play? Raj guides Jamie through some delicate waters in assessing where England go from here. Finally, Raj gives us the Cliff Notes version of what caught his eye in the immediate aftermath of the New Zealand x West Indies Test in Mount Maunganui in advance of a deeper dive into that series next week. Merry Christmas to all our listeners and viewers from all of us here at the Top Order. * Feels like a strange statement after leaving him out of the Brisbane Test but I'm fine with it - Baldy... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Fox Cricket's Kerry O'Keeffe joins Courtney Walsh to breakdown what happened in the third Ashes contest in Adelaide, which spinner should replace Nathan Lyon and whether it is time Ben Stokes gave up the captaincy going forwardSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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'
Jon Norman is joined by the former England fast bowler Steve Harmison to look back at England's 82-run defeat to Australia in the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, with Australia retaining the Ashes following an unassailable 3-0 series lead. They examine where it went wrong for England in this series, and hear from both the Head Coach Brendon McCullum and the captain Ben Stokes. As well as this, CODE Sports' Daniel Cherny discusses the Australian view to this Test, as Nathan Lyon is ruled out of the series, and he debates what changes the Australia side will make for the 4th Test in Melbourne on Boxing Day. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode #266 with Taylor and Adam. Come send it with the boys, as we discuss - Giving it up, Afterpay tick, Tattoos, Bad haircuts, Bondi, The Media, Rob Reiner, Nathan Lyon, The Bondi Beach Stomper, Australian Heroes, and much more... Follow us on Instagram & TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/bigsendpodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@bigsendpodcast Patreon BoSodes(Bonus Episodes): https://patreon.com/BigSendPodcast Please forward all complaints to: bigsendpodcast@gmail.com
Australia retains The Ashes with an unassailable lead in the series as it secures the win in Adelaide.
The Ashes Daily 2025, 3rd Test, Adelaide Day 4: We're going to make to a fifth day! Not, admittedly, one with a whole lot riding on it, but if there's an unexpected day of storms or an all-time rearguard from a couple of unlikely cats, who knows. Kemar Roach showed us anything is possible. Meanwhile, another absurdly attractive day of bowling from Pat Cummins had the swoon factor high, before Nathan Lyon produced some spin smut to complement it. Get your copy of Bedtime Tales for Cricket Tragics: linktr.ee/tfwbook Support the show with a Nerd Pledge at patreon.com/thefinalword Stop snoring with 5% off a Zeus device: use code TFW2025 at zeussleeps.com Get yourself some lovely BIG Boots UK, with 10% off at this link: https://www.bigboots.co.uk/?ref=thefinalword Try the new Stomping Ground Final Word beer, or join Patreon to win a case: stompingground.beer Maurice Blackburn Lawyers - fighting for workers since 1919: mauriceblackburn.com.au Get your big NordVPN discount: nordvpn.com/tfw Get 10% off Glenn Maxwell's sunnies: t20vision.com/FINALWORD Find previous episodes at finalwordcricket.com Title track by Urthboy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Chasing a virtually impossible 435 for victory to keep the series alive, England inevitably lost more than half their side to a combination of the superb Pat Cummins and wizardly Nathan Lyon as the dusty fourth day pitch played a few tricks. Simon Hughes and Simon Mann review a day of intense competition as Australia draw within four wickets of retaining Test cricket's ultimate prize. Former Australian captain Mark Taylor also gives his view on England's shaky top three. Fnal day viewable on TNT Sports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Australia moved to the brink of retaining the Ashes with a dominant Day 4 performance in Adelaide. After setting England a daunting world-record chase, the match swung decisively in the final session as Pat Cummins ripped through the top order before Nathan Lyon produced a spell of elite off-spin to crush England's resistance. Menners breaks down Travis Head's commanding 170, key moments in Australia's batting collapse, England's brief fightback, and the decisive late wickets that left the visitors staring at defeat, while also calling out England's leadership and media silence as Bazball continues to unravel. (0:55) Day 4 overview and Australia on the verge of retaining the Ashes (5:00) Travis Head's 170, Carey's contribution, and Australia's late batting collapse (9:45) England's chase begins: Cummins strikes and Australia dominate the field (14:10) Nathan Lyon's match-turning spell puts Australia firmly in control 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.
Brad Haddin, Alyssa Healy and Adam Peacock join you outside Adelaide Oval to wrap up Day Four of the Third Test. Hadds and Heals are fired up, and you can feel the second hand slowly coming onto the Urn. Heals nailed her prediction, Nathan Lyon was on fire, Harry Brook once again gave up his most important wicket with a poor shot, Cummo is back, Marnus was electric in the field, and we have special guests Stuart Clark and Adam Gilchrist crashing the podcast! Plus, we finish with your Secret Cricket Club questions! Send your cricket club cap to Producer Joel at the following address: Joel Harrison 50 Goulburn St, Sydney, NSW, 2000 Follow on Apple, Spotify and the LiSTNR app Watch on YouTube Drop us a message on Instagram and TikTok! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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'
At the end of day four in Adelaide the Australians need just four more wickets to take an unassailable three-nil lead in the Ashes series. Chasing a record 435 runs to win, England are 6/207 at stumps despite 85 from Zak Crawley. Corbin Middlemas, Darren Lehmann and Jason Gillespie dissect the day's play on Grandstand at Stumps, featuring interviews with Mitchell Starc and Zak Crawley.
Simon Mann is joined by Jonathan Agnew, Glenn McGrath and Phil Tufnell to review the 3rd day of the Adelaide Test as a Travis Head hundred nailed down Australia's position.We also get reaction from England's assistant coach Jeetan Patel and Australia spinner Nathan Lyon plus Andy Zaltzman has all the stats that matter.
Nathan Lyon speaks to Adam Collins ahead of Day Four of the Third Test. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Ashes Daily 2025, 3rd Test, Adelaide Day 2: The hottest day of the Test by far, and somehow the bowling side were not the ones who wilted. An astounding performance really, of accuracy and hostility despite the conditions rather than because of them, is well worth reflecting on regardless of what team you follow, as Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon came back into the Australian team and led the way. Get your copy of Bedtime Tales for Cricket Tragics: linktr.ee/tfwbook Support the show with a Nerd Pledge at patreon.com/thefinalword Stop snoring with 5% off a Zeus device: use code TFW2025 at zeussleeps.com Get yourself some lovely BIG Boots UK, with 10% off at this link: https://www.bigboots.co.uk/?ref=thefinalword Try the new Stomping Ground Final Word beer, or join Patreon to win a case: stompingground.beer Maurice Blackburn Lawyers - fighting for workers since 1919: mauriceblackburn.com.au Get your big NordVPN discount: nordvpn.com/tfw Get 10% off Glenn Maxwell's sunnies: t20vision.com/FINALWORD Find previous episodes at finalwordcricket.com Title track by Urthboy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Daniel Norcross is joined by Jonathan Agnew, Glenn McGrath and former England batter Dawid Malan to review a challenging day in Adelaide with England facing a mammoth Test to keep the Ashes alive. There's reaction from England assistant coach Marcus Trescothick and Australia spinner Nathan Lyon and a statistical round-up by Andy Zaltzman
Australia tightened their grip on the Ashes on Day 2 in Adelaide as England's Bazball bravado collapsed once again. After Australia were bowled out for 371, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon returned with venom, ripping through England's top order on a hot, flat pitch that should have favoured batting. England's frustrations were compounded by ongoing DRS and Snicko controversies, internal tensions, and another disjointed batting display, leaving them eight wickets down and still trailing heavily. With Cummins' leadership, Lyon's milestone moment, and England staring down a likely 3–0 deficit, this Test — and tour — is slipping rapidly out of their control. Key Timecodes (1:25) Australia bowled out for 371 and early assessment of conditions and England's opportunity (3:30) Cummins and Lyon return, early wickets, and Lyon passes Glenn McGrath (5:00) DRS/Snicko controversy, Carey admission, and England's legitimate grievances (11:45) England's collapse before lunch and Cummins' dominance over Joe Root 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.
A whole mess of AI generated shownotes. Enjoy! 00:25 – Christmas in Hong Kong, KFC in JapanJoel (Jack the Insider) opens Episode 138 and checks in with Jack (Hong Kong Jack) about Hong Kong's love of Christmas shopping, surreal mall installations and the absence of nativity scenes, before detouring to Japan's KFC-at-Christmas tradition.01:50 – Australia's world‑first social media ban for under‑16sThe Jacks unpack the new national ban on social media for under‑16s, the generational politics of Gen Alpha kids and millennial parents, and the “pick up a book, go for a bike ride” messaging from Anthony Albanese and Julie Inman Grant.They read out Vox pops about kids discovering life without apps, YouTube‑driven body image issues, and the early scramble to alternative chat and file‑sharing apps like LemonAid.05:35 – Social engineering, High Court challenge and mental health concernsThey describe the policy as a conscious piece of social engineering aimed at reshaping youth culture over a decade, and note the High Court challenge led by the Digital Freedom Movement and Libertarian MLC John Ruddick.Beyond Blue, Headspace, ReachOut and the Black Dog Institute warn about cutting off access to online mental‑health support, as the Jacks weigh the internet's harms against the value of peer support communities for young people.09:35 – Enforcement gaps, workarounds and parental resistanceThe Jacks discuss uneven implementation, with some under‑16s apparently still able to access Facebook and Instagram while other apps are wiped, and a rush into less‑regulated platforms.They note reports that up to a third of parents will quietly help kids stay online and float the idea of a nationwide “kitchen‑table” style forum to help parents understand the risks and responsibilities around kids' social media use.12:00 – A social experiment the world is watchingThey canvas overseas interest, with Denmark, Spain and others eyeing bans at 15 rather than 16, and Sarah Ferguson's description of Australia's move as a live “social experiment” whose results are very much unknown.13:05 – Richo's state funeral and the dark arts of NSW Labor RightThe conversation turns to Graham “Richo” Richardson's state funeral, his reputation as Labor's master organiser and electoral numbers man, and his long life “on the public purse”.Joel recounts Richo's link to Balmain Welding and Stan “Standover” Smith, arguing that New South Wales Labor Right's success always had a darker underbelly.15:10 – Paul Brereton, the NACC and conflicts of interestThey examine National Anti‑Corruption Commission boss Paul Brereton's updated disclosures about his ongoing work with the Inspector‑General of the ADF and Afghanistan war‑crimes inquiries, revealed via FOI.The Jacks question whether someone so intertwined with Defence can credibly oversee corruption matters touching Defence acquisitions, and whether carving out whole domains from his remit makes his appointment untenable.18:25 – A quiet NACC, no perp walks and media theatreThe Jacks note how quietly the NACC has operated in Canberra—“blink and you'd miss them”—with none of the televised “perp walks” beloved of New South Wales ICAC coverage.Jack welcomes the absence of media spectacle; Joel admits to missing the grimace‑through‑the‑cameras moment as accused figures run the gauntlet.19:50 – Victorian youth vote turns on LaborNew polling of 18–34‑year‑olds in Victoria shows Labor's vote down 11 points to 28 per cent and the Coalition's up 17 points to 37 per cent, with the Greens steady at 20 per cent.The Jacks argue the Victorian Labor government looks to be in terminal decline, discuss leadership options for Jacinta Allan, and canvass how quickly preference “cascades” can flip a long‑term government once momentum turns.22:15 – Green exports vs coal, Treasury modelling under fireThey dissect Treasury modelling which suggests “green exports” (critical minerals, rare earths, battery inputs) will surpass coal and gas within a decade, and note scepticism from former Treasury official and now CBA chief economist Stephen Yeaman.The Jacks highlight International Energy Agency updates showing coal demand in key markets staying high, and the reality that renewables growth is largely meeting new demand rather than cutting deeply into existing coal and gas use.25:05 – Coal to 2049 and the reality of the gridJack points to Australian market operator projections that coal will remain in the domestic mix until at least 2049, while Joel questions which ageing coal plants will physically survive that long without new builds.They agree modelling must continually be revised against actual demand profiles in China, India, Indonesia and elsewhere, where coal still supplies half or more of electricity.27:20 – 30‑year suppression orders and transparencyThe Jacks shift to a 30‑year suppression order over evidence behind Tanya Plibersek's decision to block a $1 billion coal mine until 2055, and more broadly the proliferation of long‑term suppression orders in Australia.They criticise the over‑use of secrecy in both environmental and criminal matters, arguing it breeds suspicion that justice and accountability can be bought by the wealthy.28:25 – The “prominent family” sexual assault case in VictoriaWithout naming the individual, they discuss a Victorian case involving the convicted son of a prominent family whose identity remains suppressed even after guilty findings for serious sexual offences.They worry that blanket suppression encourages rumour, misidentification and a sense that powerful people get special treatment, even when protection of victims is a legitimate concern.30:05 – From undercover cop to gangland wars: how secrecy backfiresJoel revisits an NSW example where an undercover police officer's drink‑driving conviction was suppressed for 55 years, and Melbourne gangland cases where key cooperating witnesses remained pseudonymous for decades.The Jacks argue that when authorities create information vacuums, gossip and conspiracy inevitably rush in to fill the space.33:50 – MP expenses, family reunion travel and Annika Wells' bad day outThey turn to MPs' entitlements and “family reunion” travel: Annika Wells' ski‑trip optics and poor press conference performance, Don Farrell's extensive family travel, and Sarah Hanson‑Young's $50,000 in family travel for her lobbyist husband.While acknowledging how hard federal life is—especially for WA MPs—they question where legitimate family support ends and taxpayer‑funded lifestyle begins.37:05 – Why family reunion perks exist (and how they're abused)The Jacks recall the tragic case of Labor MP Greg Wilton as a driver for more generous family travel rules, given the emotional cost of long separations.They conclude the system is necessary but ripe for exploitation, and note the Coalition's relatively muted response given its own exposure to the same rules.39:15 – Diplomatic drinks trolleys: London, New York and the UNJoel notes Stephen Smith's stint as High Commissioner in London—the “ultimate drinks trolley” of Australian diplomacy—and his replacement by former SA Premier Jay Weatherill.Jack mentions Smith's reputation for being stingy with hospitality at Australia House, in contrast to the traditionally lavish networking role of London and New York postings.40:40 – Barnaby Joyce joins One NationThe big domestic political move: Barnaby Joyce's shift from the Nationals to One Nation, including his steak‑on‑a‑sandwich‑press dinner with Pauline Hanson.The Jacks canvass whether Joyce runs again in New England or heads for the Senate, and the anger among New England voters who may feel abandoned.42:25 – One Nation's growth, branch‑building and Pauline's futureThey dig into polling from Cos Samaras suggesting 39 per cent of Coalition voters say they'd be more likely to vote One Nation if Joyce led the party, and the risk of the Coalition following the UK Tories into long‑term decline.The Jacks note One Nation's organisational maturation—building actual branches and volunteer networks in NSW and Queensland—and wonder whether Pauline Hanson herself now caps the party's potential.45:20 – Kemi Badenoch, a revived UK Conservative Party and Reform's ceilingAttention swings to the UK, with fresh polling showing Labour slumping to the high teens, the Conservatives recovering into the high teens/low 20s, and Reform polling in the mid‑20s to low‑30s depending on the firm.They credit new Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch for lifting morale by dominating Keir Starmer at the despatch box, but caution that Reform's rise may still be more protest than durable realignment.49:45 – Fragmenting party systems in Europe and the UKDrawing on Michael Gove's comments, the Jacks sketch the new “four‑party” pattern across Europe—radical left/Green, social democratic, Christian Democrat centre‑right, and populist right—and argue the UK is slowly following suit.They suggest both Labour and the Conservatives can no longer comfortably absorb all votes on their respective sides of politics, with Reform and Greens carving out durable niches.53:05 – US seizes a Venezuelan tanker, Trump calls it the “biggest ever”The Jacks look at the US Coast Guard's seizure of a sanctioned Venezuelan oil tanker accused of moving Venezuelan and Iranian oil in support of foreign terrorist groups.Joel notes Trump's boast that it's “the largest tanker ever seized”, while quoting Pam Bondi's more sober explanation of the sanctions basis.54:45 – Five years of social media to enter the US?They examine a Trump‑era proposal to require even visa‑waiver travellers to provide five years of social media history before entering the United States.The Jacks question the logistical feasibility, highlight the trend of travellers using “burner phones” for US trips, and argue measures like this would severely damage American tourism.57:10 – SCOTUS, independent agencies and presidential powerThe Jacks discuss a pending US Supreme Court case about whether presidents can hire and fire the heads of independent agencies at will, with even liberal justices expressing sympathy for expansive executive authority.They link this to a broader global question: how much power should be handed from elected ministers to expert regulators, and how hard it is to claw that power back once delegated.01:00:25 – Trump's national security strategy and an abandoned EuropeThey turn to the Trump administration's new national security strategy framing Europe as both security dependent and economic competitor, and signalling an end to automatic US security guarantees.The Jacks describe openly hostile rhetoric from Trump figures like J.D. Vance and Marco Rubio towards Europe, and portray it as part of a broader American drift into isolationism as China and Russia advance.01:02:20 – Europe rearms: Germany, Poland and conscription talkThe conversation moves to European responses: big defence spending increases in Poland and Germany, and German plans to assess 18‑year‑olds for potential limited conscription.Joel argues Europe may need to build its own strategic table rather than rely on a fickle US ally, while Jack stresses serious military capability is the price of a genuine seat at any table.01:03:50 – Biden, the border and a blown political callThe Jacks examine a New York Times reconstruction of how the Biden administration mishandled southern border migration, from 75,000 encounters in January 2021 to 169,000 by March.They say Biden officials badly underestimated both the scale of migration and the law‑and‑order backlash, including resentment from migrants who followed legal pathways.01:07:05 – Migration then and now: Ellis Island vs the Rio GrandeJack recounts Ellis Island's history: the small but real share of arrivals turned back at ship‑owners' expense, and how many migrants later returned home despite being admitted.They contrast a heavily regulated, ship‑based 19th‑century system with today's chaotic mix of asylum flows, cartels and porous borders, and argue that simple “open borders” rhetoric ignores complex trade‑offs.01:09:55 – Americans know their ancestry, and that shapes the debateJoel notes how many Americans can precisely trace family arrival via Ellis Island, unlike many Australians who have fuzzier family histories.He suggests this deep personal connection to immigration history partly explains the emotional intensity around contemporary migration and ICE enforcement.01:10:30 – Ashes 2–0: Neeser's five‑for and Lyon's omissionSport time: Australia go 2–0 up in the Ashes with an eight‑wicket win at the Gabba.The big call is leaving Nathan Lyon out for Michael Neser; the Jacks weigh Nesser's match‑turning 5/42 and clever use of Alex Carey standing up to the stumps against the loss of a front‑line spinner over key periods.01:11:55 – Basball meets Australian conditionsThey discuss the limits of “Bazball” in Australia, praising Stokes and Will Jacks' rearguard while noting most English batters failed to adapt tempo to match situation.Jack cites past blueprints for winning in Australia—long, draining innings from Alastair Cook, Cheteshwar Pujara and Rahul Dravid—that hinge on time at the crease rather than constant aggression.01:15:05 – Keepers compared: Alex Carey vs England's glovesJoel hails Carey's performance as possibly the best keeping he's seen from an Australian in a single Test, including brilliant work standing up to the seamers and a running catch over Marnus Labuschagne.They contrast this with England's struggling keeper, question whether Ben Foakes should have been summoned, and note Carey's age probably rules him out as a future Test captain despite his leadership qualities.01:17:05 – England's bowling woes and Jofra Archer's limitsThe English attack looks potent in short bursts, especially Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, but lacks the endurance to bowl long, hostile spells over a five‑day Test in Australian conditions.Archer hasn't bowled more than 10 overs in an international match for over two years, and the Jacks argue that's showing late in games as speeds drop and discipline wanes.01:25:45 – World Cup 2026: Trump's “peace medal”, Craig Foster's critiqueSwitching codes to football, they note FIFA awarding Donald Trump a “peace” medal ahead of the 2026 World Cup and his delight in placing it on himself.Craig Foster attacks world football for embracing a US president he accuses of human‑rights abuses, prompting the Jacks to point out FIFA's recent World Cups in Russia and Qatar hardly make it a moral authority.01:27:20 – Seattle's Pride match… Iran vs EgyptJack tells the story of Seattle's local government declaring its allocated World Cup game a Pride match, only to discover the fixture will be Iran vs Egypt—two teams whose governments are unlikely to embrace that framing.01:27:55 – Stadiums in the desert and the cost of spectacleJoel reflects on vast, underused stadiums in the Gulf built for the World Cup and now often almost empty, using a low‑attendance cricket game in Abu Dhabi as an example of mega‑event over‑build.01:29:05 – Wrapping up and previewing the final show of 2025The Jacks close Episode 138 by flagging one more episode before Christmas, thanking listeners for feedback—especially stories around the social media ban—and promising to return with more politics, law and sport next week.a
Day two in Adelaide and Nas and Ath reflect on another difficult day for England's top order as they reach 213-8 at stumps, trailing by 158 runs. We look back on a memorable day for Australia's Nathan Lyon and reflect on more Snicko controversy, but is there any hope for England heading into day three? Nas and Ath will be back tomorrow with another daily podcast.Watch every episode of the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on YouTube here: Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on YouTubeListen to every episode of the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast here: skysports.com/sky-sports-cricket-podcastYou can listen to the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast on your smart speaker by saying "ask Global Player to play Sky Sports Cricket Podcast".Join in the debate on Twitter @SkyCricket.For all the latest Cricket news, head to skysports.com/cricketFor advertising opportunities or to get in touch with the pod email: skysportspodcasts@sky.uk
The Prime Minister announces a five-point plan to crack down on hate in Australia; The United Nations says aid operations in Gaza are at risk of collapse; Nathan Lyon spins the third Ashes Test in Adelaide on its head.
Welcome to a Wide World of Sports update. A snapshot of the latest sport stories from the 9News team including: Nathan Lyon climbs above McGrath on wicket taking list Mild conditions forecast for Sydney Hobart Rugby Sevens stars set for NRL-W switch The biggest sport stories in less than 5 minutes delivered twice a day, with reports from the 9News team across Australia and overseas. Subscribe now to make it part of your daily news diet. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to a Wide World of Sports update. A snapshot of the latest sport stories from the 9News team including: Nathan Lyon climbs above McGrath on wicket taking list Mild conditions forecast for Sydney Hobart Rugby Sevens stars set for NRL-W switch The biggest sport stories in less than 5 minutes delivered twice a day, with reports from the 9News team across Australia and overseas. Subscribe now to make it part of your daily news diet. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Australia take the advantage after two days at the Adelaide Oval. All the highlights from the SEN call, plus analysis from Damien Fleming, Gerard Whateley and Simon Katich, and we hear from Nathan Lyon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In today's episode we break down the key moments so far from the Ashes Test in Adelaide — a match shaped by control, class batting, disciplined bowling and Australia steadily tightening their grip. We get into: • Usman Khawaja's 82 • Alex Carey's home-ground 106 and how it shifted the game • The around-the-wicket inswing plan • Archers class spell (5–54) • Australia adding 50 crucial morning runs and stretching England at the perfect time Then we look at the bowling story — Cummins' control (3–54), Boland's relentless areas, and Nathan Lyon overtaking McGrath to move into second on Australia's all-time Test wicket list. We also unpack Pope vs Lyon and what England's technical battle looks like moving forward. If you enjoy the episode, it would mean the world if you left us a 5★ review and shared it with someone who loves their Ashes cricket as much as we do! All the best, Wrighty & Barks @lifeofchriswright • @k13bkr • @thebowlersunion This episode is brought to you by Gray-Nicolls. We're buzzing to be working with them — and you can grab a discount on their gear. Visit: www.gray-nicolls.co.uk Use code: A_TBUP20 at checkout.
Welcome to a Wide World of Sports update. A snapshot of the latest sport stories from the 9News team including: Nathan Lyon climbs above McGrath on wicket taking list Mild conditions forecast for Sydney Hobart Rugby Sevens stars set for NRL-W switch The biggest sport stories in less than 5 minutes delivered twice a day, with reports from the 9News team across Australia and overseas. Subscribe now to make it part of your daily news diet. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Ashes Daily 2025, 3rd Test, Adelaide Day 0: We are down to England's last chance to stay in the series, and they've elected to take on Adelaide Oval and a 40-degree forecast without a specialist spinner. Are they secret geniuses? Meanwhile, for Australia, Usman Khawaja's career is now finished without injury intervention, as the XI continues without him, while Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon come back. Get your copy of Bedtime Tales for Cricket Tragics: linktr.ee/tfwbook Support the show with a Nerd Pledge at patreon.com/thefinalword Stop snoring with 5% off a Zeus device: use code TFW2025 at zeussleeps.com Get yourself some lovely BIG Boots UK, with 10% off at this link: https://www.bigboots.co.uk/?ref=thefinalword Try the new Stomping Ground Final Word beer, or join Patreon to win a case: stompingground.beer Maurice Blackburn Lawyers - fighting for workers since 1919: mauriceblackburn.com.au Get your big NordVPN discount: nordvpn.com/tfw Get 10% off Glenn Maxwell's sunnies: t20vision.com/FINALWORD Find previous episodes at finalwordcricket.com Title track by Urthboy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
A painful wait could be worthwhile for Nathan Lyon, if he rediscovers his form in the third Ashes cricket test starting tomorrow. The veteran off-spinner's been sitting on 562 test wickets for five months, one short of equalling Glenn McGrath as Australia's second highest wicket taker. Sportstalk host D'Arcy Waldegrave explains further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Steven Finn, Matt Prior and Simon Katich join Mark Chapman to preview the third Test of the Ashes in Adelaide. Josh Tongue come in for Gus Atkinson, what next for Shoabib Bashir after being left out, the likely return of Nathan Lyon and captain Pat Cummins to the Australian side and we hear from Harry Brook.
Season 19, Episode 15: This week, from Brunswick Street Oval in Melbourne during our TFW XI match, more Ashes chatter and chunter with Usman Khawaja stepping up to the press conference mic, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon to come back for Australia, England to deal with their batting problems in time-honoured fashion by picking the same top seven and dropping bowlers, NZ spank West Indies second time around, and Jimmy Anderson will be a county captain. Most newsworthy of all, though, for the first time in history Beth Mooney didn't make a matchwinning score in a final. Support the show with a Nerd Pledge at patreon.com/thefinalword Get your copy of Bedtime Tales for Cricket Tragics: linktr.ee/tfwbook Want to stop snoring?! Get 5% off a Zeus with the code TFW2025 at zeussleeps.com Get yourself some lovely BIG Boots UK, with 10% off at this link: https://www.bigboots.co.uk/?ref=thefinalword Order some of Stomping Ground's Final Word pale ale: stompingground.beer Maurice Blackburn Lawyers - fighting for workers since 1919: mauriceblackburn.com.au Get your big NordVPN discount: nordvpn.com/tfw Get 10% off Glenn Maxwell's sunnies: t20vision.com/FINALWORD Find previous episodes at finalwordcricket.com Title track by Urthboy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On Summer Grandstand on ABC Sport, Aaron Bryans was joined by Sixers Spinner Todd Murphy ahead of the start of BBL 15.
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'
In this episode of the show, it's a full house as we look back at the second Ashes Test between Australia and England, which saw the hosts take a 2-0 lead after a comprehensive win at the Gabba. As per tradition, we start with the victors: first to praise Australia and then to attempt to understand why they've been so dominant so far - and where England have let themselves down. There's talk of key moments, of selection, of game management and much more as we bounce around a number of different talking points. As the episode continues, the conversation turns to individuals: Mitchell Starc's starring role in the series and his overall status in the Test game; Is Jake Weatherald looking like the long-term solution for Australia at the top of the order?; Joe Root's first hundred on Aussie soil; Alex Carey's performance with the gloves; criticism of Jofra Archer and whether England are actually learning from their mistakes. To round out the show, we look ahead to the options facing both sides for the third Test in Adelaide as injury ins and outs seem set to play a major role: Mark Wood and Josh Hazelwood out for the series, but Pat Cummins is on track to return. We'll be back in your feed at the end of the week with more from the cricketing world. 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: Ashes 2nd Test Review 1:45 Australia's dominant victory: more impressive than the first test? 3:15 Did we underestimate Australia before the series started? 7:00 Why are England not performing up to expectations? 19:40 Key performers: Mitchell Starc stars again 23:40 Nathan Lyon's exclusion & stats-based decision-making 27:20 Are England making tactical errors? 34:35 How much is the Bazball mindset contributing to these results? 37:35 Alex Carey's performance with the gloves 42:45 Joe Root's first hundred in Australia 44:40 Is Jake Weatherald a long-term solution at the top for Australia? 49:30 Selection questions for the third Test: Australia 53:20 Selection questions for the third Test: England 57:15 Quick predictions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Come in, sit down, let's talk about it together.We know it's bad, we know England need a ‘cricketing miracle', we know we're all tired after staying up all night. We're angry, frustrated and disappointed - but the Tailenders are here for you.Plus Mattchin has had three weeks to overprepare for a quiz which features a very special guest - Nathan Lyon (sort of) and we preview the 3rd Test in Adelaide... or is it Melbourne?
Neil Manthorp is joined by the former England fast bowler Steve Harmison to look back at England's 8-wicket defeat to Australia in the second Ashes Test in Perth. They discuss if Bazball is at a crossroads after England went 2-0 down, hear from England captain Ben Stokes, and debate what changes they need to make to the XI ahead of next week's third Test in Adelaide. Australian Cricket Writer Jarrod Kimber discusses the Australian view from that second Test win, and looks at if Pat Cummins, Usman Khawaja and Nathan Lyon should all come back for the game in Adelaide. The new Hampshire Head Coach Russell Domingo joins the show after signing a two-year deal to take charge of the county, and as always, they round up the week's other big stories, and bring you The Final Word. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At least 23 injured after 7.5-magnitude earthquake jolts northern Japan, triggers tsunami ‘You can't do that': Donald Trump mulls tariff on India for ‘dumping' rice in US Goa nightclub fire: Owners Saurabh, Gaurav Luthra fled to Thailand hours after blaze killed 25, say police Pakistani woman appeals to PM Modi, alleges husband abandoned her and planned second marriage in Delhi Ashwin reacts to Nathan Lyon's ‘filthy' statement, reveals why Indian players can't do the same: ‘I will lose out…' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Coach Brendon McCullum believes England 'over-prepared' for the GABBA Test. Ben Stokes says Australia is no place for 'weak men'. With Australia 2-0 up and in control at the Ashes, England is heading for (checks notes) Noosa?! This English team has felt hard to get a handle on, so Ali Mitchell joins us to decipher the messages coming from the tourists' camp. PLUS, we marvel at a strong Australian display. Featured: Ali Mitchell, broadcaster ABC Sport. Subscribe to the ABC Sport Newsletter
SEN Cricket commentator Gerard Whateley reviews the second Ashes Test, Michael Neser, Jake Weatherald, England's downfalls on the Run Home with Joel and Fletch 00:00 Knew we would be working today 01:00 Big wrap on Michael Neser 02:50 Jake Weatherald is here now 03:45 England's downfall 05:15 Dropped catches from fatigue 07:00 BazBall in trouble 08:00 Nathan Lyon to return in Adelaide 09:20 Monty Panesar comments and Steve Smith boo-ing 10:15 Steve Smith as the captain 11:30 Will Starc be rested in Adelaide? 13:00 What has Stuart Broad been like to work with? Listen to The Run Home with Joel and Fletch live every weekday3pm on SEN 1170 AM Sydney2pm SEN 693 AM BrisbaneListen Online: https://www.sen.com.au/listenSubscribe to The Run Home YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@JoelandFletchSENFollow us on Social Media!TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@joelfletchsenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/joelfletchsenX: https://x.com/joelfletchsen*Timecodes approximate* Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Did the Aussie selectors just overthink themselves out of a Test match by dropping the GOAT on home soil? Sam Leckie dissected the fallout of the decision that exposed Australia's bowling depth and left Nathan Lyon "rattled."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brad Haddin and Adam Peacock join you from the Gabba in Brisbane to recap a solid day of Ashes Test cricket. Joe Root finally broke his drought of scoring a hundred in Australia (Haydos must be happy). Alex Carey was excellent with the gloves, Starc collected ANOTHER six-wicket haul, and will Australia miss Nathan Lyon in this Test? Send your cricket club cap to Producer Joel at the following address: Joel Harrison 50 Goulburn St, Sydney, NSW, 2000 Follow on Apple, Spotify and the LiSTNR app Watch on YouTube Drop us a message on Instagram and TikTok! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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'
No team is prettier in pink than Australia; victorious in 12 of 13 Test matches in this format. Why are they so strong and how will England seek to counter that to level the Ashes? We pull apart likely tactics to understand how both sides will approach the pink Test at the traditional Australian fortress of the GABBA. Featured: Alex Malcolm, journalist, Cricinfo. UPDATE: post release Usman Khawaja was ruled out of Australia's team. Head to the ABC news website for full details.Subscribe to the ABC Sport Newsletter
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu look back at South Africa's 2-0 sweep of India, and look ahead to the upcoming series between the Black Caps and the West Indies, as well as the second Ashes Test. We start the show by discussing South Africa's dominant victory against India in the second and final Test of that series, which saw lower-order runs from Senuran Muthusamy and Marco Jansen backed up by impressive performances from Jansen and Simon Harmer with the ball. There's plenty of praise for the visitors, but why were they able to be so successful? Are they better than we thought? Was Shubman Gill's injury that impactful? And how much pressure does another home sweep pile on Gautam Gambhir? Next we head back to New Zealand, where we look forward to the Test series against the West Indies, which starts at Hagley Oval on Tuesday. It's a matchup that favours the Black Caps on paper, but how much have injuries impacted the strength of this Kiwi side? We talk through possible lineups, what's at stake for the likes of Devon Conway and Tom Latham with a big 12-18 months ahead, and the role Mitchell Santner could fill at number 7 in the batting order. To round out the show, we chat about the Ashes, with team selection in focus. Mark Wood is out for England, Pat Cummins isn't yet back for Australia and the Travis Head or Usman Khawaja to open the batting question still remains. Plus: could Nathan Lyon miss out, and should we even have pink-ball Tests at all in the Ashes? We'll be back in your feed next week to review the Tests and anything else that catches our eyes from around the world. 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 1:10 India v SA Test series review: South Africa's statement win 10:50 Jansen, Stubbs, Muthusamy all step up 13:45 Simon Harmer's performance & do Indian batters have a weakness against spin? 22:25 How much pressure is on Gautam Gambhir? 30:30 Black Caps v West Indies Test series 32:15 Injuries and absences for NZ 34:35 Black Caps bowling attack 37:50 What's at stake for New Zealand as a team and individually? 48:00 Will this be Kane Williamson's last Test series at home? 52:00 The Ashes 2nd Test preview: will Travis Head open for Australia? 1:00:00 England selection questions and build up 1:03:30 Do we need a pink-ball Test in the Ashes? 1:07:10 Could Cummins still play? Would Nathan Lyon miss out? 1:12:45 Predictions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Peter Siddle joins Brad Haddin and Adam Peacock in the week of the 15-year anniversary of his legendary hat-trick at the Gabba. Sids chats about his memories from that day, playing for the PM’s XI this week against the Lions, why the English batsmen don’t want to face him, his thoughts on the current bowling line-ups, and a few Ashes war stories featuring him and Hadds! Plus, we chat with Code Sports journo Dan Cherny, who gives us the inside scoop on the latest stories around the Ashes - will Uzzy be fit? Is Cummo a chance? And does Nathan Lyon fit into the Gabba squad? We finish with India vs South Africa, and the Secret Cricket Club goes hard on the Poms! Send your cricket club cap to Producer Joel at the following address: Joel Harrison 50 Goulburn St, Sydney, NSW, 2000 Follow on Apple, Spotify and the LiSTNR app Watch on YouTube Drop us a message on Instagram and TikTok! 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
The Ashes countdown begins with Menners and Gav Joshi diving into all the cricket news from Australia and beyond. Menners opens the show with a rare apology to English fans after last week's passionate rant — but the rivalry is heating up fast with the first Test just days away. The duo break down India's T20 series win over Australia, dissect the Aussies' middle-order issues, and debate the left-arm bowling question ahead of next year's T20 World Cup. Then it's full focus on the Ashes: team selection headaches, Cameron Green's fitness, Nathan Lyon's spot, and whether England's “Bazball” can survive on Australian pitches. Finally, Menners celebrates a new Big Bash rule he's been championing for a decade — fans can now keep the ball if they catch a boundary in the first over. It's a jam-packed episode of cricket insights, humour, and classic Unfiltered banter. (0:55) Menners apologizes to English fans after last week's outburst. (3:11) Ashes merch drop — from “Moral Victory” to “The Bairstow Walk” T-shirts. (5:10) India win the T20 series: what it means for Australia's World Cup prep. (11:00) Who replaces Mitch Starc and the left-arm conundrum for Australia. (14:30) The age question: are Australia's best years behind them? (20:30) Ashes selection debate: Green's fitness, Lyon's place, and the Perth pitch. (26:50) England vs Australia bowling attacks compared. (34:50) The Big Bash “Keep the Ball” rule — Menners' dream finally comes true. 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.
Ashes prep is starting to get real. From white ball, to red ball and everything in between. Including, a special catch up with Nathan Lyon. Mitch Starc goes from his first hit back in the nets, to life back on the road. While Alex Carey gets some crucial red-ball time for South Australia in a Sheffield Shield final rematch, up against an in-form Marnus Labuschagne… who’s making a serious case for his Ashes return. And then there are nerves. The beautiful, brutal part of sport that every elite athlete learns to live with. From sponsor shoots to long days at Cricket Central, from early-morning Shield prep to the chaos of school runs before training. The grind, excitement, and professionalism of Ashes build-up are on full display. It captures the tension, excitement, and emotion of the calm before the Ashes storm. *** 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 Monday November 17 - Episode 9 Tuesday November 25 - Episode 10 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The countdown to The Ashes continues… and things get very fun along the way! It’s content capture week for the Aussie cricket team — five days of cameras, chaos, and countless laughs. From early gym sessions with Nathan Lyon, to Alex Carey’s Men’s Health shoot prep, to Mitch Starc’s behind-the-scenes banter (and a cheeky cameo from Alyssa Healy) — this is professional cricket like you’ve never heard it before. Howie joins the crew on set as the players juggle media, training, and footy finals chat — all while keeping spirits high and energy levels (just) alive. From covering up a “Picasso” to Starcy’s pump-up speeches… it’s the unfiltered, hilarious, and human side of Australia’s stars before the Ashes heat up. The laughs are rolling, the cameras are rolling… and the countdown is well and truly on. *** 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 Friday November 7 - Episode 6 Monday November 10 - Episode 7 Friday November 14 - Episode 8 Monday November 17 - Episode 9 Tuesday November 25 - Episode 10 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Menners is joined by Gav Joshi to lock in Australia's likely top six for the upcoming Ashes, debate whether Cameron Green should bat at three or four, and discuss how the selectors might balance form, fitness, and experience. They also assess Pat Cummins' injury and Steve Smith's return, highlight emerging pace options like Jack Edwards and Matt Kelly, and analyse the strength of Australia's bowling attack. Later, they cover Australia's Women's World Cup dominance, India's ODI struggles, and listener emails on Nathan Lyon's longevity and the future of cricket behind the paywall. (0:54) Menners welcomes Gav Joshi and vents about English media and Ashes buildup (2:10) Australia's top six shaping for Perth — Green, Smith, and Webster debates (9:20) Pat Cummins' injury, Smith's captaincy, and fast-bowling depth analysis (18:42) Assessing Australia's bowling dominance and Kawaja's importance at the top (25:03) Australia's women cruise to World Cup semi-finals; India under pressure (27:24) Remembering Ben Cameron and Nick Maddinson's health battle (28:51) ODI review: Australia vs India in Perth – rain, chaos, and missed rhythm (35:46) Listener emails – Nathan Lyon's future and white-ball cricket behind paywalls 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.