Podcast appearances and mentions of todd astle

In this episode, we're joined by Todd Astle, former professional cricketer turned mental skills coach and a founder of BetterMan. Todd shares his incredible journey from high-performance sport to empowering others through mental fitness and meaningful connections. We dive into Todd's experiences on and off the field, his transformation into a leading wicket-taker, and how it shaped his career and life philosophy. We also chat about the great stuff that Better Man, a charity dedicated to supporting men's mental health and building stronger communities, are doing and why it's so important. Check out these links below for more!

Ex Blackcap Todd Astle talking about BetterMan - CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Caps will begin the defence of their ICC World Test Championship title without the services of two of its best players, after Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme ruled themselves out of the upcoming series against India.A 15-strong squad has been named for the two-Test series - to be played in Kanpur from November 25-29 and Mumbai from December 3-7 - that features five spin options; including 21-year-old Rachin Ravindra who has the opportunity to make his Test debut.However, both Boult and de Grandhomme - two of the side's best performers over the past several years - have decided to opt out of the tour due to concerns over the amount of time that would be required to be spent in Covid quarantine facilities.Black Caps coach Gary Stead said their decisions were completely understandable as player welfare is paramount within the side."Trent has already spent the best part of 60 days in hard managed isolation this year, while Colin had been on the road since May until recently returning home from Pakistan," Stead stated in a press release."From talking to both players it was clear the best option for them was to be left out of this Test tour and for them to instead focus on being ready for the New Zealand home summer."The loss of Boult and De Grandhomme opens up an opportunity for the likes of Ravindra and all-rounders Glenn Phillips and Will Somerville.All three provide spin options for the Black Caps alongside recent regulars - conditions dependent - Ajaz Patel and Mitchell Santner.The rest of the squad has a familiar feel with the regular Test top five and Will Young filling the batting positions, and Tim Southee, Neil Wagner and Kyle Jamieson providing the pace options.This series will also be the first without wicket-keeping stalwart BJ Watling after he retired following the WTC final win in England, with Tom Blundell set to take over the Test gloves.Stead said they'd very much taken a horses-for-courses approach when picking the tour squad."Touring India is one of the greatest experiences in cricket and I know our guys are really looking forward to the challenge," he said."It's fair to say we're expecting spin-friendly conditions and it's great to have a range of options in this department."The success of our spinners on recent tours to the sub-continent has been encouraging and we hope they can once again feature prominently."It's really exciting to begin the second instalment of the WTC and we know there'll be an extra incentive for all the teams we play following our win in the inaugural competition."Despite being the reigning World Test Championship champions, the Black Caps have never won a Test series on Indian soil.Meanwhile, the Black Caps will first face India in three T20 Internationals on November 17, 19 and 21 – with the current T20 World Cup squad carrying on for that series.Black Caps Test squad: Kane Williamson (c), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Henry Nicholls, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Ajaz Patel, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Will Somerville, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, Will Young.T20 squad: Kane Williamson (c), Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Martin Guptill, Kyle Jamieson, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee.

Been a minute since we last talked Blackcaps so you can imagine this one went overtime. Dose of Mindfulness to begin (1:34), then some Post Olympic Buzz (3:16) and a bit of Kiwi NRL (3:16) to whet the appetite some more. Chuck in a little Flying Kiwis and Welly Nix football chat (6:41) and then mate it's all in on the cricket (23:47). Three squads, lots of names. We chat Todd Astle and Tim Seifert's selections, preferred World T20 XIs, breakout dudes from the second tier squad, and more.

We're a man down on this episode, with Raj unavailable, but we soldier on to review the cricketing week that was. We start with a solo performance by Stu, as the Black Caps squads and New Zealand Cricket's plans for the rest of the year were announced on Tuesday morning - the day after our initial recording. He runs through the team lists and a few initial thoughts, particularly about the T20 World Cup side and the spin-heavy look, which includes the likes of Mark Chapman and Todd Astle (full team lists and info available https://www.nzc.nz/news-items/nzc-outlines-winter-tours-strategy-t20-world-cup-squad-revealed (here)). Plus, of course, there's a shout out to Riccarton Cricket Club and their potential debutant Cole McConchie, and thoughts on the White Ferns tour to England. The podcast restarts proper with Baldy hitting the replay button as we discuss Australia's woes and whether there are any positives they can take from the T20 series loss against Bangladesh - or whether it even matters at all with so much cricket still to be played before the World Cup. We talk about scheduling challenges for The Hundred, and introduce a new segment - Media Watch - which this week highlights George Dobell's live blog of the first England v India Test. After the swish, we break down the Trent Bridge Test, in which a potentially fascinating Day 5 was washed away by the rain. Who came away with the points victory? Why didn't India play Ravi Ashwin and will we see him at all in this series? Will anyone other than Joe Root score runs for England? Will The Ashes be cancelled? Is Virat Kohli still good? And who will win the second Test at Lord's? If you haven't already, be sure to check out our Hall of Fame, both via our https://www.thetoporderpodcast.com/hall-of-fame/welcome (website) and by listening to earlier episodes (we've introduced 100-91 so far). You'll find the https://www.thetoporderpodcast.com/hall-of-fame/the-preamble (Preamble), plus https://www.thetoporderpodcast.com/hall-of-fame/the-list (the list), which will eventually feature detailed write-ups and discussions about every player from 103 to 1 as we make our way through the Hall in the coming weeks and months. We'd love to hear if you agree or disagree with our rankings so far. Please take the time to give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (https://twitter.com/Toporderpod (@toporderpod) on Twitter and https://www.facebook.com/Toporderpod (Facebook), & https://www.instagram.com/thetoporderpodcast/ (@thetoporderpodcast) on Instagram) and a (5-Star!) review at your favourite podcast provider, or tell a friend to download. It really helps others find the show. 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.

New Zealand named their squad to play the season-ending T20I series against Bangladesh and as was widely tipped, it will see a potential debut for explosive Wellington opener Finn Allen.The right-hander was at home in Auckland with extended family who gathered to say goodbye before he prepared to leave for the Indian Premier League, when he saw he had a call from Black Caps selector-coach Gary Stead. He left the room to take the call."I came out with a pretty big grin on my face," he said. "It's awesome to get that opportunity. I mean, who doesn't want to play for their country?"It caps a meteoric rise for the 21-year-old who a year ago was languishing on the fringes of the Auckland squad. Since then he has signed for Wellington, set records in the Super Smash, was called up as injury cover for Martin Guptill in the Black Caps, earned an IPL contract and now has a chance to prove himself at international level ahead of the World T20 in India this year."I'm so grateful to Cricket Wellington for giving me the opportunities," he said.The gratitude would be mutual.Allen was a pivotal part of Wellington's successful Super Smash side, scoring a competition-best 512 runs at an average of 56.9 and an eye-popping strike rate of 193.9.His approach is based on aggression, so he likes to call it "intent" and putting the new-ball bowlers under the cosh from ball one."For me [the key] is the simplicity of what I'm trying to do when I'm out there," he said. "Keeping my head as clear I can and literally just focusing on watching the ball and trying to hit it as hard as I can."His numbers paint a very modern picture. While Allen averages a touch over 48 in T20s, he hovers around 25 in List A cricket and under 20 in limited first-class opportunities since making his debut in 2018. This month he was signed by Virat Kohli's Royal Challengers Bangalore as a replacement for Australia's Josh Philippe. At a shade under $40,000 his contract will not put him in the millionaire's club but it was still a stunning opportunity for a player yet to wear national colours at senior level.Adam Milne will be more familiar to fans, having played 61 times for his country across the white ball formats.Milne, 28, made his debut for the Black Caps in 2010 as a teenage tearaway but the rigours of flat-out fast bowling on a slight frame have meant that injury has been a constant companion.Of late Milne has become a specialist T20 bowler, turning in consistent performances for the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash. He has a $670,000 contract with the Mumbai Indians for the upcoming IPL and has been training with Central Districts since leaving managed isolation.Six regulars, including Kane Williamson are missing. He is joined on the sidelines for this series by Mitchell Santner, Kyle Jamieson, Jimmy Neesham, Tim Seifert and Trent Boult.Devon Conway will have the added responsibility of taking the gloves, while Will Young has been included as a top order option.Speedster Lockie Ferguson has recovered from a stress fracture and returns."It's certainly been a season like no other and once again we've had to be pragmatic in our approach," selector Gavin Larsen said."The six guys who will miss this series are incumbents in our T20 side and the decision to give them some time at home with family before they embark on a long stint in India was principally made with their welfare in mind."We're also very aware of the need to give others opportunities in a World Cup year."NZ squad to face Bangladesh: Tim Southee (c), Martin Guptill, Finn Allen, Devon Conway, Will Young, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Adam Milne, Lockie Ferguson, Ish Sodhi, Todd Astle, Hamish Bennett.text by Dylan Cleaver, NZ Herald

In this jam-packed episode of the Top Order Podcast, we take a look at the past week, updating the goings on in the Ford Trophy, BBL10, the England squad to Sri Lanka and the burgeoning international schedule. As we move to the Black Caps v West Indies series, we discuss Henry Nicholls' big score and what that means for Will Young and Devon Conway — how long will they have to wait for an extended opportunity? We gush over the incredible talents of Kyle Jamieson — will New Zealand ever play another spinner in home conditions? Neil Wagner receives praise for both bat and ball in his 50th Test, and in light of the West Indies' disappointing performance, we ask whether they can take anything positive from the tour and debate the idea of tiers at Test level. After their demolition of the West Indies, the Black Caps move swiftly to the challenge of Pakistan. We discuss the omission of Ross Taylor from the T20 side, the return of Todd Astle and a potential debut for Jacob Duffy, before Raj gets excited about the prospect of New Zealand's top 4 and Baldy gets excited about saying the name Shaheen Shah Afridi for the new few weeks. Injuries look set to play a big part in the series, however, as worrying news about Lockie Ferguson and a fractured thumb for Babar Azam wipe out two key players. We wrap up the show with our predictions for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as concussion further disrupts the build up. The lads weigh in on the key selection debates — Pant v Saha, Shaw v Gill and the Australian top order — Lippy gives a shout out to Jasprit Bumrah's skills with the willow, before asking whether India can truly challenge an Australian side that has been a juggernaut at home in recent times. If you're a new listener to the podcast, check out the back catalogue. There's plenty more timeless interviews with current players, legends and characters from all over the cricketing world. Please take the time to give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (@toporderpod on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram) and a (5-Star!) review at your favourite podcast provider. It really helps others find the show. If you'd like to reach out to us with feedback, questions or guest suggestions, get in touch at thetoporderpodcast@gmail.com or @toporderpod on our social channels. With so much cricket going on right now, we'd love to hear what you'd most like us to focus on. Thanks for listening.

In this episode, we welcome another international spinner to the show, Canterbury Cricket’s leading wicket-taker and Black Cap in all formats of the game, Todd Astle. Todd speaks openly about his early days as an opening batsman, the U-19 World Cup, his emergence as a spinner, the challenges and highlights of his international career to date, breaking records, World Cup heartbreak, red-ball retirement, his new venture Innerspin, icecreams, sweaty hands, celebrations, bunnies, Aussie crowds and much more in this extended conversation about his life in cricket. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a like, follow, share or subscribe on all our channels (@toporderpod on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram) and a (5-Star!) review at your favourite podcast provider. It really helps others find the show. Thanks for listening.

In this episode, Astle gives host van Beek an insight to a career full of ups and downs: Chapters Retirement from Red Ball Cricket (2:53) “Boy Wonder” and dealing with early failures (4:15) Becoming a Leg Spin bowler (9:46) Turning Point – “the day at Sydneham Park (11:30) The ‘Recipe for Success' when things started to go well (16:02) Making your Blackcaps debut (17:53) Long gaps between Test Matches (21:15) Australia Test Series 2019/20 (22:52) Dealing with untimely injuries/setbacks (26:02) Developing mental skills through the setbacks (30:40) How does a young athlete understand their WHY? Gain perspective and gratitude early? (33:50) Mentors that you have looked up to for advice (36:04) Example of Roger Federer's mindset during a match. Times when you have been IN THE ZONE? Times when you were too worried about the outcome? (37:35) How do you get IN THE ZONE during a match? (42:57) Letting bad performances go (46:07) Starting INNERSPIN – transitioning out of Professional Cricket and starting a business (49:42) What is the hardest part of Career Transitioning? (54:33) Why People/Businesses/Schools/Sports teams should use INNERSPIN? (55:43) Dealing with different personalities in a team to get them moving in the same direction? (57:34) What are the best qualities of coaches you have had that you will take into your coaching career? (1:00:40) . Todd decided to put more focus into his part time leg-spin bowling and it was a decision that turned (excuse the pun) out to be a smart one. Over the next seven years Todd managed to string together a number successful seasons with the ball which resulted in Canterbury winning five championships and making his debut for the Blackcaps. . Although the success Todd was having in the domestic competition, he was struggling to nail down a regular starting spot in the Blackcaps. Making nearly twenty appearances for New Zealand across all three formats over his 15-year career. Poorly timed injuries, the pressures of international cricket and selection have been valuable character builders for Astle. These experiences have driven him to start a business called INNERSPIN, Todd has harnessed his experiences and learning's with his aim to inspire and empower others to maximize their potential. www.followthroughwithlvb.com www.innergyprobiotics.co.nz Promo code: FollowThrough15 www.innerspin.co.nz    

The Black Caps have axed Mitchell Santner from their test squad to play India.It was just over two months ago that Santner inspired the Black Caps to their 99th test victory, but his struggles in their subsequent failures to reach three figures have seen him dropped from the side.A maiden test century – 126 – and three fourth-innings wickets against England at Mount Maunganui made it seem as if Santner had finally delivered on his all-round potential, but in the three tests since then has taken two wickets while leaking 338 runs, and scored just 55 runs in five innings.His battles with the ball culminated in wicketkeeper Tom Blundell being preferred to roll the arm over for a stint during the Boxing Day test, before illness meant Santner played no part in the third test in Sydney, as Todd Astle and Will Somerville were preferred.However, the red-ball retirement of Astle and injury to Somerville meant that Santner had a chance of retaining his spot in the squad for the two tests against India, but the selectors have opted for Ajaz Patel instead.Patel may not even play against the world's best test side – his prior two appearances at the Basin Reserve and Hagley Oval, where the two tests are being held, produced no wickets in 40 overs - but he proved economical in those stints.That has usually been Santner's strength – offering restrictive bowling lines on unfriendly wickets, as well as a lineup-balancing batting option. But, with the all-rounder having struggled for economy and runs in Australia, it weakened his argument for selection, with Patel earning the sole spinning spot.Black Caps coach Gary Stead said Patel's domestic track record as wicket-taking threat gave him the nod."Ajaz has done really well for us in the past in overseas conditions, but we look at his domestic form and it's very good. It's a slight change of role in what we're looking for – that position is one is which we're trying to take wickets."If the Black Caps opt to bypass Patel and play four seamers - a distinct possibility at the Basin Reserve - a test debut could be in order for Kyle Jamieson. Lockie Ferguson's return to domestic one-day cricket after a calf injury was not enough to prepare him for two tests, while Jamieson has been picked over Matt Henry and his 50.1 test bowling average.Trent Boult has been ruled fit however, and will link up with usual seam-bowling partners Neil Wagner and Tim Southee, while Daryl Mitchell will provide options as squad cover after a strong test debut with the bat in against England Hamilton, and impressive recent form for the New Zealand XI and New Zealand A.After his MCG century, Blundell will remain at the top of the order alongside Tom Latham, with Jeet Raval dropped.Stead acknowledged some tough decisions had to be made, with Jamieson edging out Henry thanks to the point of difference his pace and height provides."Kyle will offer us a point of difference with the bounce he could extract on what is traditionally a good surface in Wellington."With a squad of 13 we've put a priority on balance and making sure we have the needed variety and different options depending on the pitch conditions at the Basin Reserve."The first test begins in Wellington on Friday, with the second in Christchurch the following Saturday.Black Caps squad: Kane Williamson ©, Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Colin de Grandhomme, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling. 

Another jam-packed cricket chat, beginning with the very pressing issue of the White Ferns' extended form slump and then getting into some Blackcaps and the state of a strange old summer of cricket. Also, reaction to the Caps' ODI squad and some of the wider selection stuff as well as Todd Astle's red ball retirement.

Kiwi cricketer Todd Astle explains why he feels now is the time to step back from red ball cricket.

The Black Caps have been hit by a double injury blow ahead of their second test against England, with Trent Boult and Colin de Grandhomme both being ruled out due to injury.Boult, who could only bowl one over on the final day of the Black Caps' win by an innings and 65 runs in Mount Maunganui, went for an MRI scan yesterday, which confirmed he had strained one of the muscles overlying his ribs on his right hand-side, but cleared him of any bone stress.He will miss the test starting on Friday at Seddon Park, as will de Grandhomme, who sustained a tear to his left lower abdominal muscle during the second innings, which saw him not bowl after lunch.The pair will begin rehabiliation with an aim to be fit for the Black Caps' first test against Australia in Perth on December 12, and Black Caps bowling coach Shane Jurgensen was hopeful both can recover in time."It's as good as what it could be, and hopefully they won't be out for too long."[Boult's injury] is quite a unique bowling injury that's not been seen much before, but fingers crossed it will be a quick rehab."We want them to be on the plane to go to Perth, so we're certainly working towards that, but the initial plan is really just rest and rehab."Northern Districts all-rounder Daryl Mitchell has been called into the test squad as de Grandhomme's replacement, and will join the Black Caps today along with Lockie Ferguson and Todd Astle, who have rejoined the test squad after being released to play domestic one-day cricket.Colin de Grandhomme (left) and Trent Boult (middle) have both been ruled out of the Black Caps' second test against England. Photo / GettyMitchell, who has played nine Twenty20 internationals for the Black Caps, hit an unbeaten 170 for Northern Districts in his last Plunket Shield match, and played for New Zealand A against England in their warm-up match, taking 2-34 and contributing scores of 19 not out and 22 with the bat.He most recently took 3-54 and hit an unbeaten 62 from 54 balls to lead ND to a one-day win over Central Districts on Monday.A powerful batsman with good technique who likes to hit the ball straight, Mitchell averages 35.6 with the bat in first-class cricket, and 33.5 with the ball, having taken 61 first-class wickets with his medium-pace offerings.Daryl Mitchell is in line for a test debut. Photo / PhotosportHe would be a like-for-like swap with de Grandhomme, though Black Caps coach Gary Stead could opt for an extra batsman in Tom Blundell, or play four seamers or two spinners, with Mitchell Santner promoted to bat at No 7.Jurgensen was certain Mitchell has the skills to replace de Grandhomme's all-round production."It's a really fantastic opportunity for Daryl, if he's selected for this test he'd probably take a similar role – I certainly think he's got the capability to do what Colin's been able to do."Boult's ailment seemingly opens up a spot for Ferguson to make his much-anticipated test debut in a seam bowling trio alongside Tim Southee and Neil Wagner, but with Matt Henry also an option, Jurgensen wasn't keen to make any assertions just yet."All options will be considered – [Henry] has done a really good job for the team and is a genuine new-ball bowler, and so is Lockie. We'll look at the pitch and see what our best lineup is."

Things have been "hot and steamy" in the Black Caps camp as they prepare for their test series in Sri Lanka.Less than one month on from controversially falling short to England in the Cricket World Cup grand final, the Black Caps are set for their first taste of the inaugural World Test Championship with a two-test series tipping off next week.But having delivered a 10-wicket thumping of Sri Lanka in the World Cup, it likely won't be the opposition that leaves the Black Caps sweating.Instead, the heat and humidity has so far proved most challenging during training, Black Caps' bowler Neil Wagner says."You feel like you've literally jumped in a swimming pool with your clothes on," Wagner said following a training session."[It's] pretty hot and steamy at the moment, very humid ... It seems to be a bit more sweaty and a bit more tacky around here."It's pretty tough to obviously stay dry and [we've] got to take fluids in the whole time. It's pretty wet, pretty sticky and it's going to be challenging but all the boys know what they're up for."The Black Caps posted a video to Instagram yesterday with the temperature recorded as 31 degrees and humidity more than 80 per cent.The Black Caps rummaging for cold drinks Photo / InstagramLast week, four spin bowlers were named in the Black Caps' 15-man squad, with Will Somerville and Ajaz Patel given a chance to repeat their heroics from last year's test series win over Pakistan.It was quite a contrast to their squads for tests at home but the Black Caps are preparing to play on Sri Lankan wickets where spinners utterly dominate the domestic wicket-taking charts.Black Caps coach Gary Stead said the squad followed a "horses-for courses" type strategy, taking into account previous matches held in Sri Lanka."Playing three spinners is an option in Sri Lankan conditions and we believe this group provides the best variations and skill mix on offer."The Black Caps' two-test series starts August 14.Black Caps test squad to play Sri Lanka: Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, Jeet Raval, Ross Taylor, Henry Nicholls, BJ Watling, Tom Blundell, Colin de Grandhomme, Mitchell Santner, Todd Astle, Tim Southee, Will Somerville, Neil Wagner, Ajaz Patel, Trent Boult.

Listen to the audio above as Black Caps wicket-keeper BJ Watling speaks to D'Arcy and GoranThe Black Caps, newly promoted to second in test cricket's world rankings, don't have to look far to see the perils of their new position.It's been a summer of upsets in cricket's longest format – starting with the Black Caps toppling Pakistan overseas for the first time since 1969, and followed by the West Indies stunning England. But, the biggest surprise of them all came earlier this month, when Sri Lanka visited South Africa and shocked everyone to claim a 2-0 series win.At the risk of this becoming one of those bleedingly obvious "the Black Caps won't be taking [Weaker Opposition X] lightly" pieces that get penned far too often, when taking those recent results onboard, there is perhaps more merit than usual to the publicly-stated caution Black Caps captain Kane Williamson likes to administer.Black Caps captain Kane Williamson. Photo / GettyConsidering how unappealing Sri Lanka looked on these shores, it's a reminder of how quickly things can change in cricket, and the demise of the for-so-long dominant at home South Africans – formerly world number two – could serve as a gentle warning.Surely though, Bangladesh can't produce the same shock? 34-1 outsiders to win the series, it would be one of the biggest upsets on these shores for years if they were to produce a test triumph, and with Shakib Al-Hasan out injured, and Mushfiqur Rahim likely to join him with a mixture of maladies, their top-heavy lineup is already in danger of toppling over.Coincidentally, those two are the players who put the Black Caps in trouble the last time these two sides met in a test series, in 2017. Al-Hasan and Rahim added a record 359 for the fifth wicket in Wellington as Bangladesh racked up 595-8, but somehow, all that was good for was to set the record for biggest total scored in a losing effort.If that pairing were fully fit, Bangladesh would be more of a threat to claim their first test win over New Zealand in 14 attempts. While Monimul Haque (test average of 44) is a classy operator, the visitors' other main weapons – their spin bowlers – are likely to be largely negated by seam-friendly wickets.The Black Caps will utilise just one spinner, as custom in New Zealand, with Todd Astle making his return to the test side as Matt Henry and Will Young miss out from the 13-man squad. He likely won't see too much time at the bowling crease, but could provide added value with the bat, with the Black Caps looking finely balanced as they attempt to kickstart their quest to win five straight test series with a victory at Hamilton's Seddon Park tomorrow.Of course – as is also custom – Williamson isn't looking that far ahead, and has taken note of test cricket's recent results."Overseas there's been some upsets with some very strong teams, and every team in international cricket is a threat, they're all very talented. Anybody can beat anybody," Williamson warned.Two weeks ago, there'd be reason to quibble with that argument – and yes, it would still be stunning if Bangladesh won even a match in this series. But after what Sri Lanka managed to prove, a safe approach might also be a sound strategy for the Black Caps to continue their rise through the ranks.

LISTEN TO DAVID WHITE AND GARY STEAD TALK WITH MARTIN DEVLIN ABOBEThe Black Caps have secured a famous away test series victory – and it could be the start of a string of test triumphs.A superb 123-run victory over Pakistan in the third test gave the Black Caps a 2-1 series win – their first away test series victory against Pakistan since the summer of 69.As Bryan Adams belted out, nothing can last forever, and the victory marked just the Black Caps' 15th away test series win – the first in Asia since 1984, and just their second against a major nation since 1986.In their first test series under coach Gary Stead, the Black Caps bounced back from a horror second test defeat – and from a dire position midway in the third – to truly trounce Pakistan on the final day, bowling them out for 156 in the fourth innings to claim victory.It's a significant accomplishment, given that Pakistan will be by far their toughest challenge in tests this season, but they can't celebrate too much though - it's a quick turnaround for the Black Caps, with the first of two tests against Sri Lanka starting on Saturday at the Basin Reserve in Wellington.Sri Lanka are coming off a 3-0 series defeat at home to England, losing by 211 runs, 57 runs and 42 runs. This is not like the Sri Lankan teams of old - Dinesh Chandimal, Dimuth Karunaratne and Angelo Mathews are solid batsmen, but there's not much pedigree elsewhere. A near full-strength side needed Mathews to make 128 to reach just 210-9 in a far-from-promising display against a New Zealand XI, made up of players not selected for Plunket Shield duty.Even without the retired Rangana Herath, Sri Lanka still have some handy spinners led by veteran Dilruwan Perera, but in New Zealand's seam-friendly conditions, their seam attack likely won't be up to standard.The same probably goes for Bangladesh, who the Black Caps will host for three tests in February and March.Bangladesh absolutely dominated an admittedly poor West Indian team in two tests last month, and are probably set to be a tougher challenge than Sri Lanka. Monimul Haque has been in excellent form with the bat, but spinners took all 40 wickets in their test victories over the West Indies, and their promising array of spin options are unlikely to find as much purchase in New Zealand.As such, it behooves the Black Caps to play on green wickets all summer, with their stellar seam attack set to be far superior to opposing seamers. However, that likely preference may result in limited involvement for the bowling stars of the third test victory over Pakistan.Ajaz Patel (3-42) and Will Somerville (3-52) ripped through Pakistan in the fourth innings of the third test, with Patel following up his first test heroics with a fine display, while Somerville had a dream debut.However, there will likely be only one spinning spot up for grabs for most of the summer, and the return of the former incumbents from injury – Mitchell Santner and Todd Astle – could make for some tough selections.Can Somerville and Patel repeat their efforts in New Zealand, or did they benefit from favourable conditions in the United Arab Emirates? They should get a crack against Sri Lanka, with neither Santner or Astle likely to make their test return until Bangladesh arrive, but the handy batting and all-round talents of the injured duo will make them appealing to the selectors, while Ish Sodhi may have to serve as a short-format specialist for the home summer.There should be no major changes in the batting lineup, despite a mixed display in the Pakistan series. The only batsman in the top six not to score a 50 in the test series was opener Jeet Raval, who despite some promising starts and a decent test average (33.86), has yet to prove that he is a stable long-term option.Raval hasn't notched a 50 in over a year, but his contributions – he reached 30 in every test – should see him retain his spot for the Sri Lanka series, as does the fact that there is no obvious...

Ish Sodhi hasn't cemented his place in the New Zealand Test side, according to David Leggat.The NZ Herald cricket writer says the ball just didn't go the leg spinner's way in Christchurch."He bowled 16 overs in the whole. Things just didn't really roll his way. When it comes to the next time they pick the test team, what are they going to think about?"They're going to think about his bowling. They're not going to think about, 'oh, this guy made a half century to save us the Test, boy we'd better have him in the team for that."Complicating matters is Mitchell Santner's role in the team and his injury along with the overall depth in the Black Caps bowling attack with Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Doug Bracewell, Todd Astle and even Northern Districts' Scott Kuggeleijn all in the mix.LISTEN ABOVE AS DAVID LEGGAT SPEAKS WITH THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST

Ish Sodhi hasn't cemented his place in the New Zealand Test side, according to David Leggat.The NZ Herald cricket writer says the ball just didn't go the leg spinner's way in Christchurch."He bowled 16 overs in the whole. Things just didn't really roll his way. When it comes to the next time they pick the test team, what are they going to think about?"They're going to think about his bowling. They're not going to think about, 'oh, this guy made a half century to save us the Test, boy we'd better have him in the team for that."Complicating matters is Mitchell Santner's role in the team and his injury along with the overall depth in the Black Caps bowling attack with Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Doug Bracewell, Todd Astle and even Northern Districts' Scott Kuggeleijn all in the mix.LISTEN ABOVE AS DAVID LEGGAT SPEAKS WITH THE RADIO SPORT BREAKFAST

Ish Sodhi's taken plenty of confidence into his return to the Black Caps.The legspinner's linked up with the New Zealand squad ahead of the second test against England in Christchurch, replacing Todd Astle who has a side strain.Fresh off taking 12 wickets in a domestic match for Northern Districts, Sodhi says he's feeling good."It was good to get a chance to bowl some overs out in the middle, so you go into the test, if I get a chance to play, with a bit of momentum and some overss under my belt, so it was the ideal scenario for me."Sodhi's last test was in September 2016.LISTEN TO ISH SODHI TALK WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN ABOVE

Ish Sodhi's taken plenty of confidence into his return to the Black Caps.The legspinner's linked up with the New Zealand squad ahead of the second test against England in Christchurch, replacing Todd Astle who has a side strain.Fresh off taking 12 wickets in a domestic match for Northern Districts, Sodhi says he's feeling good."It was good to get a chance to bowl some overs out in the middle, so you go into the test, if I get a chance to play, with a bit of momentum and some overss under my belt, so it was the ideal scenario for me."Sodhi's last test was in September 2016.LISTEN TO ISH SODHI TALK WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN ABOVE

Black Caps spinner Todd Astle two days out from the historic day/night test at Eden Park. He talks about his expectations, where he’ll bat in the order, and the friendship (not rivalry) he has with Ish Sodhi – both leg-spinners, but happy to talk shop because they understand the fine art of their skill.LISTEN ABOVE AS TODD ASTLE SPEAKS WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN 

Black Caps spinner Todd Astle two days out from the historic day/night test at Eden Park. He talks about his expectations, where he’ll bat in the order, and the friendship (not rivalry) he has with Ish Sodhi – both leg-spinners, but happy to talk shop because they understand the fine art of their skill.LISTEN ABOVE AS TODD ASTLE SPEAKS WITH D'ARCY AND GORAN 

There's little surprise from Ish Sodhi after being overlooked for the two cricket tests against England.The Black Caps spinner has been snubbed for the series, with Todd Astle's batting ability seeing him given the nod as Mitchell Santner's replacement.Sodhi told the Radio Sport Breakfast Astle deserved to be picked.READ MORE:Black Caps selectors explain why Todd Astle was picked"Todd Astle's been a performer in domestic cricket with the red ball for a long time and he'd been part of the Test make-up over the past couple of series."I definitely thought that would be the case, I guess I have to go back and keep putting performances on the board."Sodhi's taking the snubbing in his stride and says there's no point crying over spilt milk."You either can take it two ways. You can get really frustrated and down or you can get up and be like 'okay, what do I need to do to get back to that team'? That's the approach I'm looking at at the moment."The legspinner will play for Northern Districts against Otago in the four day Plunket Shield competition this weekend determined to improve on his batting.

There's little surprise from Ish Sodhi after being overlooked for the two cricket tests against England.The Black Caps spinner has been snubbed for the series, with Todd Astle's batting ability seeing him given the nod as Mitchell Santner's replacement.Sodhi told the Radio Sport Breakfast Astle deserved to be picked.READ MORE:Black Caps selectors explain why Todd Astle was picked"Todd Astle's been a performer in domestic cricket with the red ball for a long time and he'd been part of the Test make-up over the past couple of series."I definitely thought that would be the case, I guess I have to go back and keep putting performances on the board."Sodhi's taking the snubbing in his stride and says there's no point crying over spilt milk."You either can take it two ways. You can get really frustrated and down or you can get up and be like 'okay, what do I need to do to get back to that team'? That's the approach I'm looking at at the moment."The legspinner will play for Northern Districts against Otago in the four day Plunket Shield competition this weekend determined to improve on his batting.

Black Caps selector Gavin Larsen concedes they may need to take a leaf out of Australia's book when it comes to selections.Australia used a green side in their successful Twenty20 tri-series campaign, made up nearly entirely of Big Bash players with their first choice players sitting out to focus on their test game.Larsen says it's given them something to think about.READ MORE: Australia cover every Black Caps' twist and turnAustralia 'were always one step ahead of the Black Caps'"We introrudced Mark Chapman and Tim Seifert, guys who had shot the lights out in our Super Smash competition."We don't quite have the depth that Australia have across the ditch. There were learnings, it was a disappointing end for us."However, Larsen does concede they need to consider player schedules.Unlike their Australian opponents who fielded a relatively inexperienced side, New Zealand's team for the Twenty20 tri-series was relatively similar to their first choice one-day squad."I do still firmly believe we had our best T20 players on the park but that does raise another question around workloads and players playing all three formats. Some big ticket items there we need to chew around."Ish Sodhi has earned a recall to the ODI squad as cover for Mitchell Santner and Todd Astle who are both under injury clouds. 

Black Caps selector Gavin Larsen concedes they may need to take a leaf out of Australia's book when it comes to selections.Australia used a green side in their successful Twenty20 tri-series campaign, made up nearly entirely of Big Bash players with their first choice players sitting out to focus on their test game.Larsen says it's given them something to think about.READ MORE: Australia cover every Black Caps' twist and turnAustralia 'were always one step ahead of the Black Caps'"We introrudced Mark Chapman and Tim Seifert, guys who had shot the lights out in our Super Smash competition."We don't quite have the depth that Australia have across the ditch. There were learnings, it was a disappointing end for us."However, Larsen does concede they need to consider player schedules.Unlike their Australian opponents who fielded a relatively inexperienced side, New Zealand's team for the Twenty20 tri-series was relatively similar to their first choice one-day squad."I do still firmly believe we had our best T20 players on the park but that does raise another question around workloads and players playing all three formats. Some big ticket items there we need to chew around."Ish Sodhi has earned a recall to the ODI squad as cover for Mitchell Santner and Todd Astle who are both under injury clouds.