Slashing Through the Cordon

40 Episodes
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By: Bill Peters

A fan of cricket podcasts on cricket at all levels. International. Domestic. Club.

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Episode 43: Maddinson's Recall Defies Every Selection Criteria
Episode 43: Maddinson's Recall Defies Every Selection Criteria episode artwork
#43
Yesterday at 1:52 AM

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

South Africa brought Australia's ODI team back to earth with a comfortable 2-1 victory in the recent series which acts as a lead up to next year's World Cup. We talk about the scenario that awaits Australia on the back of this result.

Injuries have put Australia's ranks in crisis as we head into the Test series, and the decision by George Bailey and his band of selectors to recall Nic...


Episode 42: Solid Steps Taken in Victory over Zimbabwe
Episode 42: Solid Steps Taken in Victory over Zimbabwe episode artwork
#42
09/24/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

Australia has defeated Zimbabwe 3-0 in a closely contested ODI series, and today we will discuss the results, but more about the players who have put their best foot forward in consolidating their places in this ODI team as the focus starts to turn to next year's World Cup

Australia A is currently battling it out on the subcontinent, as are the Australian Under 19 boys, and we take a look at...


Episode 41: Cricket Australia Start Process of Killing Australian Cricket
Episode 41: Cricket Australia Start Process of Killing Australian Cricket episode artwork
#41
09/10/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

On today's episode I will ramble somewhat incoherently in anger and attitude about the announcement this week that Cricket Australia is moving ahead with its decision to sell off its BBL franchises to private equity, despite not having the full agreement of the state associations or of the majority of cricket loving people in the country. What should have been a far more precise showing from CA and myself turns into my own...


Episode 40: Australian White Ball and A Team Squads Announced
Episode 40: Australian White Ball and A Team Squads Announced episode artwork
#40
09/02/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

On today's episode we take an in depth look and discussion on the ODI squad Australia's selectors have chosen to tour Zimbabwe and South Africa at the end of the month. We discuss the implications for Marnus Labuschagne for his exclusion, and why we may be taking a trip back to the future with the selection of Cooper Connolly and Oliver Peake, and what may be their reckoning over the next 12 months.

<...


Episode 39: Australia's Bowling Blitz Saves Batting Blushes
Episode 39: Australia's Bowling Blitz Saves Batting Blushes episode artwork
#39
08/24/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

On today's episode we look at the 2nd Test between Australia and Bangladesh, and ponder what a Test match that goes three balls into the third session on Day 2 really does for Test cricket. We discuss what the outcome of the Test and the series does for both teams going forward.

Following this I will offer you my opinions on the squad that i think Australia should take to South Africa...


Episode 38: Bangladesh Play Test Cricket to Complete Famous Victory
Episode 38: Bangladesh Play Test Cricket to Complete Famous Victory episode artwork
#38
08/20/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

On today's episode I discuss the fallout from Bangladesh's famous victory over Australia in the 1st Test in Darwin. In a match where Bangladesh played the perfect match of Test cricket, they blindsided an underdone and ill-prepared Australian team that looked as though they thought they just had to turn up to win.

I'll look at the performance of the bowling quartet as well as Australia's faltering top order, discuss the...


Episode 37: 1st Test Preview - Australia vs Bangladesh
Episode 37: 1st Test Preview - Australia vs Bangladesh episode artwork
#37
08/11/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

Today I will give a review of the warm up game played by Bangladesh against the Cricket Australia XI over the weekend, before I go into a preview of the First Test to be played by Australia and Bangladesh starting in Darwin this week. We check out the teams, offer up opinions, and talk about what the outcomes for teams and individuals alike may occur.

Questions are asked, and questions are...


Episode 36: Is Clicking Cheating or Gamesmanship?
Episode 36: Is Clicking Cheating or Gamesmanship? episode artwork
#36
07/31/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad, with our special guest co-host Josh.

Topics of the conversation include:

Cricket Australia have floated an idea that they should take an Ashes Test match to India in order to showcase it to the world. We discuss this idiocy as well as the pandering to future investors in taking the opening BBL match to the same country.

England has anointed their new coach and captain following the end of...


Episode 35: 'Nothing to See Here' as Test Squad Announced
Episode 35: 'Nothing to See Here' as Test Squad Announced episode artwork
#35
07/22/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

Topics of the conversation include:

Australia's Test squad for the two Test series against Bangladesh has been announced, and we go through the players chosen.

The selectors have stuck with their winning squad from the Ashes - unless you were one of the fill-ins for injured players. Then you got left out. We discuss the scenario.

Can Australia continue to win over their 21 Test 12 months schedule ahead...


Episode 34: McCullum's Sacking Brings Bazball to an End
Episode 34: McCullum's Sacking Brings Bazball to an End episode artwork
#34
07/15/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

Topics of the conversation include:

To see what brought about the Cult of Bazball, we have to go back and look at the playing career of Brendan McCullum and remember what he did as a player and captain, which we look at here

With this in mind, why did the same theory that McCullum had used before not work for England? We have an overview of the differences involved.<...


Episode 33: Aussie Girls Stokesed in World T20 Victory
Episode 33: Aussie Girls Stokesed in World T20 Victory episode artwork
#33
07/06/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

Topics of the conversation include:

The Death of Bazball and Ben Stokes's Test career proves a major talking point here today. Even with the end of Stokes' captaincy and Test career, will that stop the faithful from pushing on with the Bazball cult? We discuss.

England has been offered a chance for a reset, including bolstering their Test team with players who have the heart for the challenge. But...


Episode 32: Connolly's 149 Saves Australia's Blushes
Episode 32: Connolly's 149 Saves Australia's Blushes episode artwork
#32
06/15/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

Topics of the conversation include:

England have a new/old captain, and Ollie Robinson is a new/old man. While Joe Root returns with the (C) after his name, injury-prone Ollie is out again. We discuss.

Kane Williamson retires from all International cricket mid-series. We reflect on a career that makes him arguably New Zealand's greatest ever cricketer.

Australia manages to hold on to win the final...


Episode 31: Curfew Kerfuffle Sees Stokes on the Brink
Episode 31: Curfew Kerfuffle Sees Stokes on the Brink episode artwork
#31
06/12/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

Topics of the conversation include:

They may have finally managed a win on the paddock, but off the field England continues to kick itself in the testicles. We discuss the whole incredible idiocy of it all.

Meanwhile on the field, Australia does a bit of testicle kicking of its own as it crashes to its first series ODI defeat to Bangladesh on the sub-continent.

With the results...


Episode 30: Lordy Lord's, England Has a Gay Old Time
Episode 30: Lordy Lord's, England Has a Gay Old Time episode artwork
#30
06/08/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

Topics of the conversation include:

England comes away from Lord's with a win in the 1st Test against New Zealand thanks to debutante Emilio Gay, but it's the wicket square rather than the cricket that gets the most attention.

Afghanistan pleads for more opportunities to play Test Cricket, while taking on the might of India in the one-off Test in New Chandigarh.

Australia falls short in the 3...


Episode 29: Who Can We Laugh at If the Renegades Don't Exist?
Episode 29: Who Can We Laugh at If the Renegades Don't Exist? episode artwork
#29
06/04/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, at home and abroad.

Topics of the conversation include:

Australia levels up the ODI series in Pakistan with a 43 run victory. We talk about the game and Australia's winners and losers so far.

The 1st Test between England and New Zealand starts tonight, and we discuss the likely team lineups and the possible result.

The BBL continues to blow up unabated, with Cricket Victoria going rogue and deciding to sell up...


Episode 28: Pakistan Blows Away Australia's 2nd XI... or is it 3rd XI?
Episode 28: Pakistan Blows Away Australia's 2nd XI... or is it 3rd XI? episode artwork
#28
06/02/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we talk about everything that is happening in the world of cricket, as the rubbish parts finish up and the good parts start to begin again.

Topics of the conversation include:

The opening ODI between Pakistan and Australia, and what Australia can take from the game given most of their first choice players were unavailable.

Ollie Peake became the fourth youngest Australian to play ODI cricket. But was his selection a result of the best young Aussie bats wilting on the vine?

The...


Episode 27: Have England's Changes Gone Far Enough?
Episode 27: Have England's Changes Gone Far Enough? episode artwork
#3
05/22/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we discuss the recent announcement of the England squad for the 1st Test against New Zealand, and the other changes around the set up.

Topics of the conversation include:

The fallout from England's debrief of their tour of New Zealand and Australia, and the lack of consequences for... anyone.

How did Rob Key, Brendan McCullum and Ben Stokes all survive the disaster of the past 12 months?

What does the overlooking of Darren Gough for Marcus North as England's Head of Selectors suggest regarding...


Episode 26: Molineux, Schutt and Brown - Discussion on Australia's Women's T20 World Cup Squad
Episode 26: Molineux, Schutt and Brown - Discussion on Australia's Women's T20 World Cup Squad episode artwork
#2
05/14/2026

On today's episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we discuss the Australian squad that has been announced for the upcoming Women's T20 World Cup.

Topics of the conversation include:

Sophie Molineux leads the team, but can she crack it for the 1st XI?

Will the loss of experience without Lanning, Haynes and Healy be problematic for the tournament?

Is Darcie Brown's omission at the expense of Megan Schutt the correct decision

Australia's best XI, and how they will perform.

What is Australia's path to the finals

<...


Episode 25: White Ball Squads for Pakistan and Bangladesh
Episode 25: White Ball Squads for Pakistan and Bangladesh episode artwork
#1
05/12/2026

On today's comeback episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, we discuss the squads that were announced yesterday by the Australian selectors for the upcoming 3 ODI games in Pakistan, and the 3 ODI and 3 T20I games in Bangladesh for Australia.

Topics of the conversation include:

The players chosen, the new names brought into the squads, and perhaps more pertinent the names that are missing.

The players under pressure to perform given their current form or position in the team

Is there a need to refresh the playing strength

Are players...


Episode 24: Australia's Fragilities Exposed in Loss to Zimbabwe
Episode 24: Australia's Fragilities Exposed in Loss to Zimbabwe episode artwork
#24
02/15/2026

In this episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, Bill Peters discusses Australia's disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup, particularly their loss to Zimbabwe. He analyses the team's strategy, player selections, and the implications of their current standing in the tournament. The conversation also covers other notable results from the World Cup, predictions for upcoming matches, and a detailed overview of the local cricket scene, including the South Coast District Cricket Association and the performance of the Kiama Cricket Club and of the women's team, the Cavettes.

Takeaways

Australia's loss to Zimbabwe was unexpected and...


Episode 23: England Proves They Can Lose T20 Cricket Too
Episode 23: England Proves They Can Lose T20 Cricket Too episode artwork
#23
02/12/2026

In this episode of 'Slashing Through the Cordon', Bill Peters discusses the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, highlighting Australia's performance and the political dynamics affecting the tournament. He also laughs as England lose again. He also discusses the upcoming women's all-format series against India and provides insights into the Sheffield Shield and the future of Australian cricket.

Takeaways

The podcast has gained popularity with the highest ratings.

Australia's late start in the T20 World Cup raises questions.

Bangladesh's withdrawal from the World Cup highlights political tensions.

The financial...


Episode 22: 170 Years of Kiama Cricket Club in 28 Minutes.
Episode 22: 170 Years of Kiama Cricket Club in 28 Minutes. episode artwork
#22
02/08/2026

This episode celebrates the 170-year history of the Kiama Cricket Club, detailing its formation, evolution, and significant milestones. Bill Peters shares insights into the early years of cricket in Kiama, notable matches, the impact of war on the sport, and the club's golden age. The conversation highlights the community's passion for cricket and the legacy it has built over the years.

Takeaways

The Kiama Cricket Club has a rich history spanning 170 years.

Cricket in Kiama began in the mid-1850s with significant challenges.

Hugh Massie, a former Australian captain, played for...


Episode 21: Where to Now for Big Bash League.
Episode 21: Where to Now for Big Bash League. episode artwork
#21
01/26/2026

In this episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, Bill Peters reviews the recently concluded Big Bash League season, discussing its highlights, the future of the league, and the implications of private equity involvement. He also analyses the upcoming World T20 tournament and the dismissal of Bangladesh from the tournament, and the recent Australia vs England series, providing insights into both teams' performances and future prospects. Finally, we discuss the ongoing Under 19 World Cup and check in on Australia's prospects.

Takeaways

The Big Bash League concluded with the Scorchers winning their sixth title.

The...


Episode 20: 5th Test Australia v England Days 3 to 5
Episode 20: 5th Test Australia v England Days 3 to 5 episode artwork
#20
01/08/2026

In this episode, Bill Peters reviews the final three days of the fifth Test match between Australia and England, discussing key performances, controversies, and the implications for both teams moving forward. He highlights Travis Head's aggressive batting, Jacob Bethel's impressive debut century, and the impact of umpiring decisions on the match. Additionally, he reflects on Usman Khawaja's retirement and what it means for Australian cricket, while looking ahead to future series and potential changes in team dynamics.

Takeaways

Australia's batting was dominant in the final test.

Travis Head's aggressive play raised concerns for...


Episode 19: 5th Test Australia v England Day 2: Five Points of Play
Episode 19: 5th Test Australia v England Day 2: Five Points of Play episode artwork
#19
01/05/2026

In this episode, Bill Peters reviews the second day of the Test match between Australia and England, highlighting key performances, player dynamics, and controversial moments. He discusses the impact of individual players like Joe Root, Cameron Green, and Jamie Smith, while also addressing the overall batting strategies and future prospects for both teams. The conversation delves into the psychological aspects of the game, particularly in relation to player reactions during tense moments.

Takeaways

England started the day strong at 3 for 211.

Harry Brook's dismissal was a turning point for England.

Joe Root's 160...


Episode 18: 5th Test Australia v England: 5 Points of Play
Episode 18: 5th Test Australia v England: 5 Points of Play episode artwork
#18
01/04/2026

This episode provides a detailed analysis of the first day of the fifth Test match between England and Australia in Sydney. The host discusses team selections, performance, and the impact of weather interruptions on the game. Key issues such as the lack of specialist spinners in both teams and the over rate problems are highlighted, along with the implications for future matches.

Takeaways

England made a change by bringing in Matthew Potts.

Australia's decision to omit Todd Murphy raised concerns.

The pitch in Sydney is traditionally favourable for spinners.

...


Episode 17: Bazball in Ruins as 'Worst Aussie Team' Retains Ashes - Again!
Episode 17: Bazball in Ruins as 'Worst Aussie Team' Retains Ashes - Again! episode artwork
#17
12/22/2025

On this episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, Bill Peters reflects on the recent Test match between Australia and England at the Adelaide Oval. He shares his personal experiences attending the match, discusses the atmosphere created by fans, and analyses the performances of both teams. Key moments, controversies, and player contributions are highlighted, along with thoughts on future matches and potential team changes.

Takeaways

The Adelaide Test was a memorable experience for Bill and his son.

The atmosphere at the Adelaide Oval is unmatched for cricket.

English fans are passionate but...


Episode 16: The Least Helpful BBL15 Preview
Episode 16: The Least Helpful BBL15 Preview episode artwork
#16
12/12/2025

On today's episode I offer an in-depth preview of the Big Bash League (BBL) 15, analysing each team's strengths, weaknesses, and potential for the season. We discuss the format of the tournament, the kickoff at Optus Stadium, and offer predictions on how each team will perform, highlighting key players and coaching changes. The conversation is filled with insights into the dynamics of T20 cricket and the unique challenges faced by each team. Overall, you will come away with less information than you started with, but most likely a couple of teams to put a line through after I suggest they...


Episode 15: Yo Gabba Gabba! Bazball Goes 0-2
Episode 15: Yo Gabba Gabba! Bazball Goes 0-2 episode artwork
#15
12/09/2025

In this episode, Bill Peters provides a detailed analysis of the second Test match between Australia and England, highlighting key performances, turning points, and tactical decisions that shaped the outcome. He discusses the implications of England's approach to batting and the need for re-evaluation, while also reflecting on Australia's dominance and team dynamics. The episode concludes with insights into the WBBL, Australia A against the England Lions and the first Test between New Zealand and the West Indies, along with other upcoming matches, emphasising the excitement and unpredictability of cricket.

Takeaways

Australia's victory by 8 wickets...


Episode 14: We Want Head as England Gets a Starc Reminder
Episode 14: We Want Head as England Gets a Starc Reminder episode artwork
#14
11/26/2025

On this episode, Bill Peters provides a detailed analysis of the recent Test match between Australia and England, focusing on key performances, tactical decisions, and the implications for both teams moving forward. He highlights Mitchell Starc's exceptional bowling, Travis Head's explosive batting, and the overall dynamics of the match, while also reflecting on the future challenges for England as they prepare for the next Test.

Takeaways

Mitchell Starc's performance was pivotal in Australia's victory.

Travis Head's aggressive batting style changed the game's momentum.

England's decision to spread the field was questioned...


Episode 13: Ashes 1st Test Preview and Series Thoughts
Episode 13: Ashes 1st Test Preview and Series Thoughts episode artwork
#13
11/19/2025

On this episode of "Slashing Through the Cordon", Bill provides an in-depth preview of the upcoming 1st Test match between England and Australia. He discusses the predicted lineups for both teams, the strategies they might employ, and the challenges they face. He emphasises the importance of the bowling attack for both sides and shares his predictions for the match and the series outcome, highlighting the historical context of England's struggles in Australia.


Takeaways

England's lineup is expected to rely heavily on their pace attack.

Australia's batting order has been inconsistent...


Episode 12: Hamstrings Tighten to Keep Test Squads Hamstrung.
Episode 12: Hamstrings Tighten to Keep Test Squads Hamstrung. episode artwork
#12
11/13/2025

In this episode, Bill Peters dives into the world of cricket, discussing the latest happenings in the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) and the Sheffield Shield. He highlights key performances, injury updates, and the implications for team selections ahead of the upcoming test matches. The conversation also touches on the importance of international test matches and the ongoing debate surrounding the proposed two-tier test system. Bill emphasises the need for more countries to participate in Test cricket and shares his thoughts on how to improve the format for the future.

Takeaways

Bill Peters introduces the...


Episode 11: Spin to Win as WBBL Begins
Episode 11: Spin to Win as WBBL Begins episode artwork
#11
11/10/2025

On today's episode of the cricket podcast that features nothing but the rantings of a self-knowledgeable idiot, we take a look at the opening day of the new season of the WBBL, and discuss just where we may be heading over the next 35 days. We also have a quick look at day one of the fourth round of the Sheffield Shield, before heading back to Kiama to discuss the last weekend of the south coast competition.

Summary

In this episode of Slashing Through the Cordon, Bill Peters discusses the current state of cricket, focusing on...


Episode 10: Australia's 1st Test Squad Announced
Episode 10: Australia's 1st Test Squad Announced episode artwork
#10
11/05/2025

In this episode, Bill Peters discusses the recently announced Australian Test squad for the 1st Test of the Ashes series, analysing player selections, surprises, and the implications for the team's performance. He delves into the fast bowling options, batting lineup challenges, and the role of Cameron Green and how it impacts the balance of the team and the playing chances of other members of the squad. He also gives his opinion on the different selections he would have made, and his forthright opinions on the possibilities that may occur in two weeks time.


Takeaways<...


Episode 9: India Gives 1.5 Billion People Reason to be Happy
Episode 9: India Gives 1.5 Billion People Reason to be Happy episode artwork
#9
11/03/2025

Summary

In this episode of 'Slashing Through the Cordon', Bill discusses the highlights of the Women's World Cup Final, the ongoing T20 series between Australia and India, and provides updates on local cricket competitions in New South Wales. He reflects on the performances of various teams and players, including key moments from the matches and insights into the current state of cricket in the region.

Takeaways

India won the Women's World Cup, showcasing their talent.

Shefali Verma's return to form was a highlight for India.

Australia's T20 series against...


Episode 8: Accidental Tragedy Strikes Cricket at the Heart
Episode 8: Accidental Tragedy Strikes Cricket at the Heart episode artwork
#8
10/31/2025

In this episode, Bill discusses the recent interruptions in cricket due to rain, highlights the unexpected finalists of the Women's World Cup, and analyses Australia's semi-final collapse against India. He also reviews player performances in the Sheffield Shield and addresses a tragic incident that raised safety concerns in cricket.

Takeaways

South Africa and India will face off in the Women's World Cup final.

Australia's performance in the semi-final was their worst of the tournament.

The Women's World Cup has seen incredible turnarounds in results.

Safety in cricket training is...


Episode 7: King Demolishes SA to Set Up Finals Showdown in Women's World Cup
Episode 7: King Demolishes SA to Set Up Finals Showdown in Women's World Cup episode artwork
#7
10/26/2025

Summary


In this episode of 'Slashing Through the Cordon', Bill Peters discusses the latest happenings in international cricket, including the ongoing Women's World Cup and the recent one-day series between Australia and India, as well as the opening match of the ODI series between New Zealand and England. He provides insights into local cricket performances and reflects on selection controversies, particularly regarding young players like Jack Edwards.


Takeaways

Australia has wrapped up the one-day series against India.

The batting performance in the series was underwhelming.<...


Episode 6: Kohli's Double Duck Haunts India's ODI Failures
Episode 6: Kohli's Double Duck Haunts India's ODI Failures episode artwork
#6
10/24/2025

Summary

In this episode, Bill Peters discusses the latest developments in the Women's World Cup, focusing on key matches, performances, and the implications for the semi-finals. He also reviews the ongoing one-day series between Australia and India, highlighting individual performances and team strategies. Additionally, Peters provides updates on international cricket, including results from other series and upcoming matches.

Takeaways

Australia has shown strong performances in the Women's World Cup. Australia's depth in talent is evident in their recent wins.Key players like Ash Gardner and Annabelle Sutherland are making significant contributions.

...


Episode 5: Will Substitutes Work in Cricket
Episode 5: Will Substitutes Work in Cricket episode artwork
#5
10/18/2025

Summary

In this episode of 'Slashing Through the Cordon', Bill discusses the latest happenings in cricket, focusing on the Women's World Cup, the Sheffield Shield, and local cricket on the South Coast of New South Wales. He provides insights into the performance of various teams, the impact of weather on matches, and the introduction of new rules regarding player substitutions.


Takeaways

The Women's World Cup has faced significant weather disruptions.

Australia is performing strongly in the Women's World Cup, confirming their semi-final spot.

The Sheffield Shield...


Episode 4: Why the BBL Cannot Be Allowed to Replace Test Cricket
Episode 4: Why the BBL Cannot Be Allowed to Replace Test Cricket episode artwork
#4
10/14/2025

Summary

In this episode, Bill passionately discusses various aspects of cricket, focusing on the Women's World Cup, the thrilling match between India and Australia, and the ongoing Test series involving the West Indies. He also provides insights into the local cricket scene and shares his thoughts on the future of Test and T20 cricket in Australia in regards to the ongoing discussion about the scheduling conflicts of the Australian summer.

Takeaways

Bill Peters expresses his love for cricket despite lacking formal knowledge.

The Women's World Cup has showcased surprising results and...