The weekly cricket show from BBC Sport in association with ABC and All India Radio.
The WPL and the Bucket Hat Cult
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma all preview the second edition of The Women's Premier League. We discuss which players to look out for and whether Mumbai Indians can defend their title. We also assess India's chances of sealing a Test series victory over England without their star pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah who has been rested for the fourth Test in Ranchi and we discuss how England will respond after receiving criticism following their heavy defeat in the third Test in Rajkot.With the second edition of the Women's Premier League starting this week, it's not only the players' fortunes that could be transformed, in fact, it provides an opportunity for the fans to come together and watch the women's game. They are known as the Bucket Hat Cult, named after the group’s ‘uniform’ - a bucket hat in any colour or design. They are a fans group dedicated to women’s sports that are trying to make the stadium experience inclusive, enjoyable and accessible to all. We speak to the co-founder of the group, Parth Suri.Photo: The Bucket Hat Cult at the Wankhede Stadium. (Credit: Parth Suri/Bucket hat cult fan group)
2/22/2024 • 33 minutes
Australia's Mitchell Marsh on the power of talking
Mitchell Marsh has had an extraordinary couple of years from being recalled to the Australia Test team, winning the 50 over World Cup and being named T20 captain. Marsh has been telling Alison Mitchell how he got involved with a small charity that focuses on men’s mental health and how he supported a teenager whilst playing in the Ashes.We also discuss the significance of the historic Test between Australia's women and South Africa plus Australia became world champions at Under 19 level for the fourth time after beating India in the final.Image: Mitchell Marsh of Australia celebrates reaching his century during Day One of the LV= Insurance Ashes 3rd Test Match between England and Australia at Headingley on July 06, 2023 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
2/15/2024 • 34 minutes
Jaiswal: India's next 'legend'?
Yashasvi Jaiswal became the third youngest player from India to score a Test double century at the age of 22. With the series against England finely poised at 1-1, we hear from Jaiswal’s childhood coach Jwala Singh.Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma also speak to Angus Brown, who represents England Men’s Physical Disability cricket team after their five-match tour to India this week ended in a 3-2 defeat.Image: India batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal celebrates his double century during day two of the 2nd Test Match between India and England at ACA-VDCA Stadium on February 03, 2024 in Visakhapatnam, India. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
2/8/2024 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Kevin Sinclair on backflips and West Indies historic win
West Indies all-rounder Kevin Sinclair tells Alison Mitchell that Test cricket will live for "a very long time. We have an in depth interview with Kevin on the programme after West Indies won a Test in Australia for the first time since 1997.Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma all discuss how India will respond to losing the opening Test against England and we also find out more about England's hero Tom Hartley after his match winning performance in Hyderabad.Image: Kevin Sinclair of the West Indies celebrates taking the wicket of Usman Khawaja of Australia during day two of the Second Test match in the series between Australia and West Indies at The Gabba on January 26, 2024 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)
2/1/2024 • 35 minutes, 45 seconds
Saumy Pandey: India’s Junior Jadeja
With the rising stars of the cricketing world showcasing their talent at the Under 19's World Cup in South Africa, we ask, can India's youngsters retain their title? Hear from vice captain Saumy Pandey who is often compared to Ravindra Jadeja.As the five match Test series begins this week, we discuss how India will cope without their superstar Virat Kohli for the first two Tests against England? Kohli withdrew due to personal reasons.We'll also react to the Big Bash final in Australia where Brisbane Heat secured their second title.Photo: Saumy Pandey of India celebrates the wicket of Carson McCullough of Ireland during the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup South Africa 2024 match between India and Ireland at Mangaung Oval on January 25, 2024 in Bloemfontein, South Africa. (Credit: ICC via Getty Images)
1/25/2024 • 32 minutes, 35 seconds
Super Shamar Joseph
Eleanor Oldroyd, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma all react to West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph's dream debut in Test cricket. Joseph struck gold with his very first delivery, claiming the wicket of Steve Smith who was opening for Australia for the first time in a Test match.The iconic Adelaide Oval scoreboard has been in use since 1911 and is the only manual scoreboard still in use at a major Australian sports venue.
We hear from Trevor Manuel who is a Tour Ambassador at the ground.Plus, with the T20 World Cup just months away, we'll be asking whether India have found a new gem in all-rounder Shivam Dube after his stellar performances against Afghanistan.Photo: Shamar Joseph of the West Indies walks from the field after taking five wickets in the first innings during day two of the First Test in the Men's Test match series between Australia and West Indies at Adelaide Oval on January 18, 2024 in Adelaide, Australia. (Credit: Getty Images)
1/18/2024 • 29 minutes, 7 seconds
Ellyse Perry: Greatest female cricketer we've ever seen
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma all react to Ellyse Perry's historic achievement of reaching 300 caps for Australia during the Twenty20 series victory over India.After all the hype and speculation, we'll also discuss Steve Smith replacing David Warner as Australia's Test opener despite never batting in the position in his 16-year first-class career. The second edition of the SA20, South Africa's premier T20 competition, is underway. We speak to South African born Netherlands cricketer, Roelof Van Der Merwe, who won the competition last year.Photo Credit: Ellyse Perry of Australia during day five of the LV= Insurance Women's Ashes Test match between England and Australia at Trent Bridge on June 26, 2023 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
1/11/2024 • 34 minutes, 15 seconds
How to save Test cricket?
Alison Mitchell and Jim Maxwell are in Sydney for David Warner's final Test match for Australia before he retires. They discuss who will replace him as opener and Charu Sharma tells us if he thinks Warner is the best Australian to play all three formats of the game.How can Test cricket remain a valued form of the game? The Stumped team debate how they would save Test cricket and discuss the viability of the format after South Africa announced seven uncapped players in their squad to face New Zealand next month, including captain Neil Brand. Plus Jim shares his thoughts on the World Test Championship.Women's Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana joins us as Bangladesh prepare to host the Women's T20 World Cup in October. She discusses their domestic structure and what impact hosting the tournament will have for the country.Photo: Pat Cummins of Australia lifts the ICC World Test Championship Mace during day five of the ICC World Test Championship Final between Australia and India at The Oval on June 11, 2023 in London, England. (Credit:Getty Images)
1/4/2024 • 33 minutes, 10 seconds
The Best of Stumped in 2023
Please note: This programme contains discussions about alcoholism and references to mental health. If you are suffering distress or despair and need support, you could speak to a health professional, or an organisation that offers support. Details of help available in many countries can be found at Befrienders Worldwide. www.befrienders.orgWe look back at the best of Stumped in 2023. This is another chance to hear some of the standout moments from 2023 including a powerful interview from South Africa wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta. She entered rehab after battling with her alcohol addiction and won a runners up World Cup medal only a few months later.You can listen back to our trip to Mumbai for the inaugural Women’s Premier League and Charu’s interview with Delhi Capitals and India player Shikha Pandey. She tells us of the new talent emerging in the country.Australia won the Men's 50 Over World Cup in India thanks largely to their captain Pat Cummins. Cummins has been Australia skipper for 18 months now and we hear from his former teammate Trent Copeland.Stumped also returns to Lord’s when Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta spoke to former Australian coach Justin Langer who told us about his memories of playing at the home of cricket. Plus we hear from the creator of the viral cricket episode of Bluey and enjoy a classic Stumped debate on the use of red cards.Photo: India's Shikha Pandey (L) celebrates with teammate India's Richa Ghosh (R) after the dismissal of Australia's Beth Mooney (not seen) during the semi-final T20 women's World Cup cricket match between Australia and India at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town on February 23, 2023. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)
12/28/2023 • 35 minutes, 52 seconds
Jim Maxwell: Celebrating 50 years of Australia's 'Voice of Summer'
Stumped's Jim Maxwell has been a part of ABC for 50 years. He joined the organisation at the age of 22 in 1973 as a trainee and has now commentated on over 300 Test matches. Jim shares how he started his commentary career with Alison Mitchell and Charu Sharma, he also tells us about his favourite moments that he has witnessed and the advice that he would give his younger self.The team are also joined by former Australia bowler and a player who has shared the commentary box with Jim for many years, Kerry O'Keeffe. Kerry gives us insight into how the pair met, if he has ever known Jim to be tongue-tied and what they get up to both on and off air. Plus we celebrate another Australian star. Nathan Lyon is the third Australian after Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath to take 500 Test wickets and the eighth man in history. Kerry O'Keefe takes us back in time to when he first saw Nathan Lyon bowl and shares some of the secrets to his success.Photo: Jim Maxwell commentates on ABC Radio during day four of the Test match in the series between Australia and India at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 10, 2021 in Sydney, Australia. (Credit: Getty Images)
12/21/2023 • 42 minutes, 7 seconds
David Warner: Answering his critics?
Alison Mitchell and Jim Maxwell are in Perth as Australia take on Pakistan in the opening Test match of the Australian Summer. They are joined by Sunil Gupta from New Delhi and discuss David Warner's 164 in his final series before retiring from Test cricket. Warner is now fifth on Australia's all-time Test run-scorers list after passing Matthew Hayden and Michael Clarke. We debate the importance of the century amid recent criticism from ex-team-mate Mitchell Johnson.Plus we hear from Australia captain Pat Cummins on the importance of loyalty in the team and discuss the news that Australia all-rounder Cameron Green has chronic kidney disease.We reflect on the Women's Premier League auction which saw uncapped India fast bowler Kashvee Gautam and Australia all-rounder Annabel Sutherland picked as the most expensive players. We also look at the stars who missed out.And we are joined by the former Sri Lanka captain, Duleep Mendis who is now head coach of the Oman. He shares their plans to field a team who are all born in the country. He also looks back on his time as team manager when Sri Lanka won the World Cup on 1996.Photo: David Warner of Australia celebrates after scoring a century during day one of the Men's First Test match between Australia and Pakistan at Optus Stadium on December 14, 2023 in Perth, Australia. (Credit: Getty Images)
12/14/2023 • 35 minutes, 59 seconds
WBBL winner: 'I taught myself how to bowl spin'
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by Zimbabwe’s Anesu Mushangwe who has just won the Women's Big Bash League with the Adelaide Strikers. She became the first player from Zimbabwe to win the title and tells us how she learnt how to bowl throwing lemons. Anesu details her journey from growing up in Zimbabwe and falling in love with cricket, to moving to Australia and playing with her idols and all the obstacles in-between.The team discuss the row that has broken out in Australia with former bowler Mitchell Johnson questioning whether former team-mate David Warner should be given a "hero's send-off" in the Test series against Pakistan. They debate Johnson's comments and assess Warner's global profile.Photo: Anesu Mushangwe of the Strikers celebrates with team-mates after taking the wicket of Tahlia Wilson of the Thunder during the WBBL match between Sydney Thunder and Adelaide Strikers at Cricket Central, on November 21, 2023, in Sydney, Australia. (Credit: Getty Images)
12/7/2023 • 26 minutes, 28 seconds
The WBBL final: Will Adelaide Strikers dominate?
Charu Sharma, Jim Maxwell and Nikesh Rughani preview the Women’s Big Bash League final. They discuss the dominance of the Adelaide Strikers captained by Australia all-rounder Tahlia McGrath who have won 11 out of 14 matches. They will be playing their final against the Brisbane Heat at the Adelaide Oval for the first time and are hoping for a record crowd.Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has said that India will be a 'serious challenger' in next year's T20 World Cup. The team debate whether they think he is right and the reasons behind his comments. They also discuss the ongoing Men's T20 series between India and Australia.And the team react to the news that Rahul Dravid will continue as India head coach and if this is the best move.Photo: Tahlia McGrath of the Strikers celebrates with teammates after dismissing Ellyse Perry of the Sixers during the WBBL match between Sydney Sixers and Adelaide Strikers at North Sydney Oval, on November 18, 2023, in Sydney, Australia. (Credit: Getty Images)
11/30/2023 • 32 minutes, 32 seconds
Australia captain Pat Cummins is a 'special human being'
Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Sunil Gupta look back at the Men’s 50 Over World Cup final and debate if Travis Head will be the next superstar of Australian cricket. He sits amongst legends Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist as only the third Australian man to make a century in a World Cup Final. We also discuss who will be the next generation of India cricket stars.
Plus Pat Cummins has had a standout year as captain of Australia winning the World Test Championship Final, retaining the Ashes and now winning the 50 Over World Cup. We get an insight into the man himself with his former New South Wales teammate and former Australia player Trent Copeland. Trent tells us what Pat was like in the dressing room and whether he always thought Pat would be a natural leader.
And we debate the introduction of a stop clock in cricket. Will this speed up the game or is it a gimmick?
Photo: Australia captain Pat Cummins is presented with the trophy by Narendra Modi, Prime Minister for India and Richard Marles, Deputy Prime Minister of Australia after winning the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023 Final between India and Australia at Narendra Modi Stadium on November 19, 2023 in Ahmedabad, India. (Credit: Getty Images)
11/24/2023 • 33 minutes, 8 seconds
Will Virat Kohli help India win the World Cup?
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss Virat Kohli's World Cup record breaking semi-final performance. Kohli helped India reach the final by becoming the first player to score fifty One Day international centuries, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record. They also ask if India have been challenged so far and can they claim the ultimate title in their own backyard?
We also look back on the Men's 50 Over World Cup with our Stumped awards. We debate the stand out moment, the best player, the emerging star and which team or performance has been the most disappointing?
Plus we look at Sri Lanka's suspension from the Independent Cricket Council.
Photo: Virat Kohli of India celebrates after scoring a century, overtaking Sachin Tendulkar for the all time most ODI centuries during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023 Semi Final match between India and New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium on November 15, 2023 in Mumbai, India. (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
11/16/2023 • 33 minutes, 58 seconds
ICC's Geoff Allardice discusses the latest on Afghanistan women's cricket
Alison Mitchell is joined by the Chief Executive of the ICC, Geoff Allardice. He is challenged on the plight of the Afghanistan women’s cricket team who fled the country when the Taliban regained control in 2021. Allardice also tells us about cricket's inclusion in the Olympics and the future of the One-Day format.
(Geoff Allardice spoke to Stumped before Sri Lanka was suspended by the ICC due to being "in serious breach of its obligations as a member".)
Plus Jim Maxwell and Prakash Wakankar pay tribute to the most successful captain in the history of cricket. Australian Meg Lanning has announced her international retirement at the age of 31 after winning seven World Cups.
And the team look back on an eventful week in the Men's Cricket World Cup after Sri Lanka player Angelo Matthews became the first player in international cricket to be 'timed out'
Photo: Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager - Cricket Operations speaks during the ICC Annual Conference at the InterContinental Hotel on June 30, 2018 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Patrick Bolger-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
11/9/2023 • 35 minutes, 45 seconds
Meet the first female coach in the Pakistan Super League
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta are joined by Catherine Dalton who is the first female coach in the Pakistan Super League. She will also be the first female fast bowling coach of any professional men’s team when she joins the Multan Sultan's. She tells us about the significance of the role, why she did not have any reservations about taking the job and the differences between coaching men and women.
Plus we discuss the Men's Cricket World Cup so far and ask where it is all going wrong for England? We also look at how Australia will cope without Mitchell Marsh and Glenn Maxwell and ask if Afghanistan can realistically make it to the semi-finals.
There has been some controversy surrounding the lack of both DRS and third umpires in the Women's Big Bash League so we ask if cricketer's are too reliant on technology?
Photo: Catherine Dalton of Ireland steers the ball with Dilani Manodara of Sri Lanka looking on during the Women's ICC World Twenty20 India 2016 match between Sri Lanka and Ireland at the IS Bindra Stadium on March 20, 2016 in Mohali, India. (Credit: ICC via Getty Images)
11/2/2023 • 28 minutes, 9 seconds
Afghanistan's secret to success
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta are joined by Afghanistan assistant coach Raees Ahmadzai. He was part of the Afghanistan team that progressed to the 2009 ICC World Cup Qualifiers. In 2010 he retired from playing and took up a coaching role within the team.
He tells us the secret to their success after their two shock wins over England and Pakistan in the Men's Cricket World Cup.
Plus, we pay tribute to former India captain Bishan Singh Bedi who died this week aged 77 and look at the influence of Virat Kohli on the current India team.
Finally we reflect on Glenn Maxwell's record breaking century for Australia and South Africa's Quinton de Kock who has scored his third century of the tournament.
Photo: Mujeeb ur Rahman of Afghanistan celebrates the wicket of Harry Brook of England during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023 between England and Afghanistan at Arun Jaitley Stadium on October 15, 2023 in Delhi, India. (Credit: Getty Images)
10/30/2023 • 32 minutes, 47 seconds
Afghanistan's secret to success
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta are joined by Afghanistan assistant coach Raees Ahmadzai. He was part of the Afghanistan team that progressed to the 2009 ICC World Cup Qualifiers. In 2010 he retired from playing and took up a coaching role within the team.
He tells us the secret to their success after their two shock wins over England and Pakistan in the Men's Cricket World Cup.
Plus, we pay tribute to former India captain Bishan Singh Bedi who died this week aged 77 and look at the influence of Virat Kohli on the current India team.
Finally we reflect on Glenn Maxwell's record breaking century for Australia and South Africa's Quinton de Kock who has scored his third century of the tournament.
Photo: Mujeeb ur Rahman of Afghanistan celebrates the wicket of Harry Brook of England during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023 between England and Afghanistan at Arun Jaitley Stadium on October 15, 2023 in Delhi, India. (Credit: Getty Images)
10/26/2023 • 32 minutes, 47 seconds
Sinalo Jafta on alcoholism, rehab and recovery
Please note: This programme contains discussions about alcoholism and references to mental health. For more support, go to https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/1kS7QTDB16PWkywhsXJLzxz/information-and-support-addiction-alcohol-drugs-and-gambling
Alison Mitchell speaks to South Africa wicketkeeper Sinalo Jafta who went into treatment 12 months ago for alcohol abuse, to the point she said she was ‘drinking to die’. Fast forward two months and she lifted a runners-up medal in the T20 World Cup. Jafta shares her story in a powerful interview.
Sunil Gupta and Jim Maxwell join Alison Mitchell to reflect on India versus Pakistan and debate if India are the favourites for the Cricket World Cup. We also discuss crowd numbers and the two shocks of the tournament so far.
And last time cricket was in the Olympics was in 1900 when it was a team from Great Britain who won gold. Five players in the squad were from Castle Cary Cricket club in Somerset so, with the news that cricket will be played at the 2028 Olympic Games, Stumped will hear from Paul Stanley who is their club treasurer and historian.
Photo: Nadine de Klerk of South Africa celebrates the wicket of Chamari Athapaththu of Sri Lanka with team mate Sinalo Jafta during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup group A match between South Africa and Sri Lanka at Newlands Stadium on February 10, 2023 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Credit: Getty Images)
10/19/2023 • 36 minutes, 52 seconds
India World Cup: ‘This is your Bollywood movie’
How do you mentally prepare to win the Cricket World Cup? On this week’s Stumped, Alison Mitchell, Sunil Gupta and Jim Maxwell speak with the man who helped mastermind India’s 2011 World Cup victory on home soil – Paddy Upton.
The mental conditioning coach takes us inside the psyche of the victorious team, discusses how to prepare to face your biggest rivals and outlines how he motivates some of the game’s greats, Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli.
Also this week, the team discuss how they mentally prepare for commentating on cricket’s biggest matches.
Plus, we meet the 21-year-old record breaker who just smashed a 29-ball century at the Marsh Cup to register the fastest hundred in one-day cricket. Jake Fraser-McGurk’s record eclipses South Africa great AB de Villiers' previous record of 31 balls.
He joins the team to explain what it felt like to break the record and his ambitions to represent Australia in all three formats of the game.
Photo: India player Sachin Tendulkar and mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton during Indian team's practice session prior to the first ODI between India and Australia at Reliance Cricket Stadium, Baroda on Saturday. (Credit: Hindustan Times via Getty Images)
10/12/2023 • 29 minutes, 29 seconds
World Cup fever, proud Dutchman and Gandhi's cricket connections
Over the next 46 days, the sport's biggest tournament will showcase the world's top ten 50-over teams and with India starting their campaign against Australia, Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta all look ahead to the mouthwatering clash.
Plus Tim De Leede, the Netherlands most capped player with 237 appearances, joins us on the programme. He’s featured in three previous World Cups, including the 1996 tournament where India were the co-hosts. 27 years later, Tim's son, Bas is a key member of the Netherlands squad and embarking on his very first World Cup.
Have you ever wondered whether there is a connection that ties Mahatma Gandhi to cricket? Author Kausik Bandyopadhyay joins us to discuss his book, the story of the forgotten partnership. 'Mahatma on the pitch - Gandhi and cricket in India'.
Photo: A general view of the Cricket World Cup during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023. England & New Zealand Net Sessions at Narendra Modi Stadium on October 04, 2023 in Ahmedabad, India. (Credit: ICC via Getty Images)
10/5/2023 • 33 minutes, 50 seconds
India’s first gold medal and Pakistan’s trailblazing captain Nida Dar
Pakistan’s Nida Dar discusses her incredible year. The 36-year-old has become captain of the Pakistan Women's team, made her 100th ODI appearance for her country and broke into the top ten of the ICC All Rounder rankings. She tells Stumped about her journey to the national team and how vital next year’s launch of a Women’s Pakistan Super League will be for the growth of the sport in Pakistan.
Plus Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell react to India winning their first cricket gold medal at the Asian Games. It’s been described by Jemimah Rodrigues as one of the biggest achievements for the women’s team after they beat Sri Lanka by 19 runs in China.
Also with the Cricket World Cup only a week away and the biggest names in the sport descending on India, they discuss which players will shine and who has a point to prove.
IMAGE: Nida Dar from Pakistan reacts to bowling Maddy Green from New Zealand as Suzie Bates from New Zealand looks on during the 2022 ICC Women's Cricket World Cup match between New Zealand and Pakistan at Hagley Oval on March 26, 2022 in Christchurch, New Zealand. (Credit: Peter Meecham/Getty Images)
9/28/2023 • 33 minutes, 39 seconds
De Kock on retirement, taking the knee and unfinished business
Stumped’s Alison Mitchell is joined by South Africa's wicketkeeper Quinton De Kock to discuss why he has decided to retire from one day cricket after the upcoming Cricket World Cup.
Plus he explains why he likes to avoid being in the limelight and his reasons for not ‘taking the knee’ with the South Africa team at the T20 World Cup two years ago.
De Kock tells Stumped that players ‘are not just pawns to Cricket South Africa’ and ‘are becoming their own bosses’.
Also on the programme, Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Charu Sharma reflect on India ending their five year title drought after thrashing Sri Lanka to lift the Asia Cup title.
Picture: Quinton de Kock of South Africa A looks on before the tour match between England Lions and South Africa A at New Road on June 29, 2017 in Worcester, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
9/21/2023 • 36 minutes, 52 seconds
Laura Wolvaardt: Touring Pakistan for the first time
In a month where South Africa's women's team toured Pakistan for the first time, we speak to interim captain Laura Wolvaardt about how she is adjusting to the role after a difficult period for South Africa with a number of retirements, including Lizelle Lee.and Dane Van Niekerk. She also gave her reaction to the fact that international match fees for women will match men for the first time in South Africa.
Virat Kohli looked back to his very best as he hit an unbeaten century to guide India to their biggest win over Pakistan in one-day internationals. Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Sunil Gupta all reflect on the Asia Cup clash and the surprise decision to add a reserve day.
Photo: Laura Wolvaardt of the Strikers bats during the Women's Big Bash League match between the Sydney Thunder and the Adelaide Strikers at North Sydney Oval, on November 20, 2022, in Sydney, Australia. (CREDIT: Mark Evans/Getty Images)
9/14/2023 • 32 minutes, 1 second
Rahul returns for India and the 16 year-old record breaker, who’s still at school
On Stumped this week, Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma speak to 16 year-old Vaishnave Mahesh who has become the youngest player, male or female to take 50 T20 international wickets and she’s still at school. The United Arab Emirates leg break bowler is also the youngest female cricketer to represent the UAE in 50 T20 international matches. Vaishnave chats about taking the record breaking delivery whilst representing her country in the T20 World Cup Asia qualifiers in Malaysia and her old teammate Mahika Gaur, who swapped her international status from the United Arab Emirates to England.
With less than 4 weeks to go until the start of the Cricket World Cup we react to hosts India announcing their squad, with the inclusion of KL Rahul, despite not playing a competitive cricket match since May due to injury. Will this squad help India win a third world title with only one recognised spinner? The panel discuss.
We’ll discuss the weather affected Asia Cup and why the world should be scared of Pakistan's pace attack. Plus, we’ll hear from Lydia Carrington, Edgbaston Sustainability Manager in charge of the Go Green game. Last weekend’s T20 match between England and New Zealand was the ground’s first international match run solely on renewable energy.
9/7/2023 • 36 minutes, 25 seconds
The first red card in cricket
Sunil Narine, the Trinbago Knight Riders spinner has made unwanted history by becoming the first cricketer to receive a red card during a Caribbean Premier League match. Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss the new rule and whether we could see this being introduced in the Indian Premier League.
The legendary England bowler Anya Shrubsole joins Stumped to reflect on the perfect final match as a cricketer, winning her maiden Hundred women’s title for Southern Brave. Anya also discusses the lack of female coaches in the game and whether they should have more support.
Anya also reacts to The England and Wales Cricket Board’s decision to ensure that England women’s cricketers will receive the same match fees as the men.
Photo: A red card (Credit: Getty Images)
8/31/2023 • 32 minutes, 12 seconds
Neil Wagner: Limo rides, post-match football and the beauty of Test cricket
A post-match football game against the opposition, a beer, and a limousine drive up a mountain. That’s how New Zealand fast-bowler Neil Wagner celebrated his side’s incredible victory over England in February. Wagner took James Anderson's wicket to beat the tourists by a single run earlier this year, and two weeks later he ran alongside Kane Williamson in their final-ball victory over Sri Lanka. He joins Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta to share what it’s like to be at the heart of two of the greatest ever finishes to a Test match. Plus, with England and New Zealand set to face off in a warm-up series for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, we’ll get Wagner’s views on who the favourites are for the tournament.
We preview the Asia Cup, which finally gets under way next week following months of doubt over its location. The tournament was originally scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan, but last year the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Jay Shah said that it would need to be held in a neutral venue, stating “we can't go there and they can't come here.” As a result, four matches are taking place in Pakistan with the rest hosted by Sri Lanka, including next week’s match between Pakistan and India.
Plus, Alison Mitchell speaks to the captain of the England Women’s Visually Impaired team, Kathryn Jelfs-White. Kathryn is currently leading her country in the team’s debut appearance at the IBSA World Games.
Image: New Zealand's Neil Wagner celebrates taking the final wicket of England's James Anderson to win during day five of the second cricket test match between New Zealand and England at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on February 28, 2023. (Photo by Marty MELVILLE / AFP) (Photo by MARTY MELVILLE/AFP via Getty Images)
8/24/2023 • 38 minutes, 11 seconds
Spencer Johnson: From greenskeeper to Australia’s Baggy Green?
As recently as three years ago Spencer Johnson was working as a greenskeeper in Australia, supplementing his income as he recovered from a nightmare spell with injuries. Doctors had doubts over whether he would even be able to run again. Fast forward to the present day and he has just been called up for Australia’s T20 matches against South Africa, with a place at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup still a possibility should a compatriot sustain an injury. He joins Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta to share his story and hopes for the future. Having played in the inaugural Major League Cricket series in America, could a stint in the Indian Premier League be on the cards?
The team react to England men’s Test captain Ben Stokes’ decision to end his one-day international retirement and play for the reigning champions at the World Cup later this year. We also discuss the impact of his return on Harry Brook, who has been left out of the England squad for their matches against New Zealand as a result of Stokes’ inclusion.
Plus, we learn about the man with the highest first-class batting average in cricket history. Norman Callaway played one match for New South Wales in 1915 and scored 207 runs, but he went to fight in World War I shortly after and died in battle at the age of 21. Australian historian Ross McMullin has told Callaway’s story in his book ‘Life So Full of Promise: further biographies of Australia’s lost generation’, and he joins us to share more details about his life.
Image: LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 15: Spencer Johnson of Oval Invincibles in action during The Hundred match between Oval Invincibles Men and London Spirit Men at The Kia Oval on August 15, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Davidson - ECB/ECB via Getty Images)
8/17/2023 • 30 minutes, 12 seconds
Lydia Greenway on cricket's first female shoe
Four-time Ashes winner Lydia Greenway joins us to discuss how she’s been working on the design of the first performance shoes for women cricketers in the UK. Due to be launched in January, Greenway says it’s a much needed development for the women’s game and may help with the prevention of injuries.
With under two months until the start of the Men's Cricket World Cup in India, Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma react to Australia's preliminary squad with some surprise selections including the omission of Marnus Labuschagne.
We also reflect on the Twenty 20 international series between West Indies and India.
Photo: England's Lydia Greenway leaves the field after being dismissed by Ellyse Perry of Australia during day two of the Kia Women's Test of the Women's Ashes Series between England and Australia Women at The Spitfire Ground on August 12, 2015 in Canterbury, United Kingdom. (Photo by Sarah Ansell/Getty Images)
8/10/2023 • 34 minutes, 22 seconds
Ollie Pope: The fairytale finish for Broad
The England vice captain Ollie Pope joins us to reflect on a dramatic Ashes series. Pope was ruled out of the contest after dislocating his right shoulder in the second Test. He discusses his recovery and the influence of Stuart Broad on his career. Plus, he reacts to England being docked World Test Championship points for a slow over rate during the Ashes series.
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma all reflect on a pulsating Ashes series which finished all square at 2-2 after Stuart Broad on his 167th and final Test clinched victory for England in their fifth Ashes Test.
The USA Correspondent for Cricinfo, Peter Della Penna also gives us his verdict on the first edition of the Major League Cricket tournament which concluded this week with MI New York lifting the trophy.
Picture: Stuart Broad of England holds a stump following Day Five of the LV= Insurance Ashes 5th Test Match between England and Australia at The Kia Oval on July 31, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
8/3/2023 • 39 minutes, 16 seconds
'Harmanpreet Kaur should be banned for 12 months'
Is the two-match ban given to India captain Harmanpreet Kaur by the International Cricket Council sufficient? Jim Maxwell doesn’t think so. On this week’s Stumped, Jim states that her behaviour following her dismissal in a One Day International against Bangladesh brought the game into disrepute and he advocates for a year-long ban in addition to her being stripped of the national team captaincy. Harmanpreet hit her own stumps with her bat after being dismissed and criticised the umpires in the post-match presentation.
Australia have retained the men’s Ashes after rain decided the outcome of the fourth Test with England. Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim discuss whether poor conditions are an inevitability that Test cricket has to put up with, or whether there’s a way around it.
Plus, we meet England’s youngest ever international cricketer. Leanne Davis left exam revision behind to make her debut in an ODI against South Africa in July 2000 as a 15 year old, but she only played once more for her country. 23 years on, she’s living in Adelaide working in the non-profit sector, helping young people affected by cancer.
Image: Harmanpreet Kaur of India cuts a dejected figure following the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Semi Final match between Australia and India at Newlands Stadium on February 23, 2023 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Photo by Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
7/27/2023 • 29 minutes, 19 seconds
Major League Cricket: Will it break America?
We’re heading to America to meet the co-owner of a Major League Cricket franchise. Anand Rajaraman is an entrepreneur who has sold businesses to Amazon and Walmart, as well as being an early investor in Facebook. His latest start-up is the San Francisco Unicorns and he aims to make cricket a mainstream American sport. The first question is: Why has he named his team after a mythical creature?
Plus, Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by England fast-bowler Kate Cross following the conclusion of a thrilling Women’s Ashes. After losing the first Test and T20 of the multi-format series England looked down and out, but managed to rally and draw the series. Unfortunately for them, Australia retained the Women’s Ashes as they were the holders. We get Kate’s thoughts on her side’s performances and whether the structure of the series needs to be reviewed.
Image: Ali Khan and Nosthush Kenjige of USA make their way off following the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Qualifier Zimbabwe 2023 9th and 10th Playoff match between USA and UAE at Takashinga Cricket Club on July 06, 2023 in Harare, Zimbabwe. (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
7/19/2023 • 36 minutes, 33 seconds
The most entertaining Ashes ever?
Alison Mitchell is joined by Clint Wheeldon and Sunil Gupta to reflect on an exhilarating Ashes series across both the men’s and women’s game, with more thrills still to come. England looked down and out in the women’s multi-format series after losing the one-off Test at Trent Bridge, but they have rallied and inflicted three consecutive defeats on the reigning world champions Australia. One win from the remaining two one-day internationals would be enough for the tourists to retain the urn, but England have the momentum.
Meanwhile, the men’s Test series is delicately poised. A win for the hosts at Old Trafford would level the scores at 2-2 going into the fifth and final match at the Oval, but similarly to their female counterparts, Australia only need to draw the series to ensure that they won’t be relinquishing the Ashes. The team give their predictions on which way it will go.
Plus, Teja Nidamanuru joins us after helping the Netherlands qualify for their first 50-over World Cup in 12 years. The occasion will mean more than most for the middle-order batter as the tournament is being hosted in the country of his birth, India. He tells us about moving to New Zealand as a six-year-old, playing in England and working a full-time job to support his cricket career.
Image: England players Mark Wood (r) and Chris Woakes celebrate victory after day four of the 3rd LV= Ashes Test Match at Headingley on July 09, 2023 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
7/13/2023 • 32 minutes, 14 seconds
The fall of West Indies
Where has it all gone wrong for West Indies? Charu Sharma, Jim Maxwell and Nikesh Rughani discuss the decline of a once-great cricketing nation as they failed to reach the World Cup in India later this year. The two-time champions were beaten by Scotland, Netherlands and Zimbabwe in qualifying matches and won’t appear at a men’s 50-over World Cup for the first time ever.
The third Ashes Test between England and Australia is under way at Headlingley but the controversy of Jonny Bairstow’s dismissal in the second Test at Lord’s continues to linger. Jim gives his view on UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s claim that the visitors went against the spirit of cricket.
Plus, we pay tribute to Steve Smith as the Australian plays his 100th Test match having just become one of the quickest batters to reach 9000 Test runs.
Image: HARARE, ZIMBABWE - JULY 01: Shamarh Brooks of West Indies makes their way off after being dismissed during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Qualifier Zimbabwe 2023 Super 6 match between Scotland and West Indies at Harare Sports Club on July 01, 2023 in Harare, Zimbabwe. (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
7/6/2023 • 35 minutes, 15 seconds
When Bluey meets Cricket
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma all react to the landmark review into cricket in England and Wales, which says racism, sexism, classism and elitism are "widespread" throughout the sport.
We also ask, how England can find a way back against a dominant Australian team in the Women's Ashes.
With the second Test coming from the Home of Cricket at Lords, Alison Mitchell speaks to Australian legend Merv Hughes and former England pace bowler Angus Fraser on their favourite Ashes memories
And, the creator of the children's cartoon programme Bluey, Joe Brumm joins us to discuss why they included cricket into one of their episodes and how the sport is inspiring young children.
Picture - Bluey (Credit ABC)
6/29/2023 • 35 minutes, 22 seconds
The Ashes rollercoaster
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss the drama of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston - from Ben Stokes’ shock first-innings declaration, to Pat Cummins’ match winning performance with the bat to what’s next for England’s bowlers.
Plus Australia’s Usman Khawaja tells Alison Mitchell just what it was like being in the away dressing room when Cummins’ scored the winning run.
And with the Women's Ashes series underway, we hear from former England cricketer Katherine Sciver Brunt on what the sporting rivalry means to her and she calls for a worldwide effort to ensure international cricket thrives.
(Photo: Australia batsmen Nathan Lyon (l) and Pat Cummins celebrates after winning the match during day five of the LV= Insurance Ashes 1st Test Match between England and Australia at Edgbaston on June 20, 2023 in Birmingham, England. Credit: Stu Forster/Getty Images)
6/22/2023 • 36 minutes, 18 seconds
Stumped at Lord’s with Justin Langer and Clare Connor
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta meet at Lord’s to look back on the World Test Championship final and preview the upcoming Ashes series.
We’re joined at the home of cricket by former Australia opener and coach Justin Langer, who reveals the player he thinks will be the key in the men’s Ashes, what it’s like facing the very first ball of the series, and how he’s finding life after coaching.
Plus, ex England captain Clare Connor discusses her experience of being the first female president of the Marylebone Cricket Club, and tells us about the work that the club’s charitable arm is doing to improve lives all over the world.
6/15/2023 • 40 minutes, 38 seconds
The World Test Championship Final and Moeen Ali's Test return
On this week's Stumped, Jim Maxwell and Alex Hartley are at The Oval where the ICC World Test Championship Final is taking place between Australia and India. They are joined by Charu Sharma and reflect on a dominant batting display from Australia including an unbeaten 146 from Travis Head. They also debate the decision made by India to drop Ravichandran Ashwin and whether it was the right one.
The team react to the return of Moeen Ali to Test cricket for the Ashes after Jack Leach was ruled out due to a back stress fracture. Plus, how much of an advantage could Australia have in the Ashes, with former England head coach Andy Flower now among the visitors ranks in a consultancy role?
And we are joined by Kuwait's Maryam Omar who is one step closer to fulfilling her dream of playing in the Women’s Big Bash. This year she lined up alongside Sana Mir, Shabnim Ismail and Katherine Sciver-Brunt for the Sapphires squad at the Fairbreak Invitational tournament and tells us how her journey began.
Photo: Travis Head of Australia interacts with Steve Smith as he reaches his century during day one of the ICC World Test Championship Final between Australia and India at The Oval on June 07, 2023 in London, England. (Credit: ICC via Getty Images)
6/8/2023 • 35 minutes, 5 seconds
MS Dhoni: The Tom Brady of the IPL?
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma reflect on arguably the greatest Indian Premier League final ever and ask whether MS Dhoni should retire now after winning his fifth title with Chennai Super Kings? The final spanned three days after heavy rain on Sunday meant the final was held on Monday which was the reserve day. It finished at 1:35 on Tuesday morning.
Plus after Alison Mitchell’s trip to Uganda we are joined by Consy Aweko who captains the Uganda women's team to hear how cricket was established in the country and the challenges that they face. She also tells us how successful the team have been recently and their maternity policies.
Jim Maxwell shares his thoughts on how big a loss it will be for Australia in the upcoming Women’s Ashes without their captain Meg Lanning. Lanning will remain in Australia because of medical reasons.
Photo: Captain MS Dhoni of the Chennai Super Kings after their victory against Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League final at the Narendra Modi Stadium on May 29, 2023 in Ahmedabad, India. (Credit: Getty Images)
6/1/2023 • 34 minutes, 51 seconds
Shabnim Ismail: I 'almost' retired before the World Cup
On this week's Stumped we are joined by one of the fastest bowlers in the women's game, Shabnim Ismail who has just retired from international cricket. South Africa made it to the 2023 World Cup Final at home in Cape Town but were narrowly beaten by Australia.
In a revealing interview Ismail says that if players like Lizelle Lee, Mignon Du Preez, Trisha Chetty and Dane Van Niekerk were playing in the final, then they could have won the World Cup. All four of the players have retired from international cricket in the last twelve months.
We look ahead to the final of the Indian Premier League, ask whether Chennai Super Kings can win the title for the fifth time and discuss Gujarat Titan's star player Shubman Gill.
And the team debate whether Australian bowler Michael Neser should be in the Ashes squad.
Photo: Photo: Shabnim Ismail of South Africa celebrates taking the wicket of Shamima Sultana of Bangladesh during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup match between South Africa and Bangladesh at Newlands Cricket Ground on February 21, 2023 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Credit: Getty Images)
5/25/2023 • 35 minutes, 56 seconds
Marcus Harris: ‘We can end 22-year wait for an away Ashes victory’
Jim Maxwell catches up with Marcus Harris, who has been named in Australia’s squads for the World Test Championship final against India and the upcoming men’s Ashes series in England. Harris discusses competing with David Warner and Usman Khawaja for an opportunity to open the batting, explains why Steve Smith’s stint in the County Championship is of benefit to England just as much as it is to Australia, and rebuffs Stuart Broad’s claim that Australia’s win in the 2021 series is “void”.
We also get Harris’ thoughts on England dropping wicketkeeper Ben Foakes from their Test squad to face Ireland at the start of June to make room for the return of Jonny Bairstow.
Plus, Scotland’s Lorna Jack joins Jim, Charu Sharma and Nikesh Rughani to discuss becoming one of the first female cricketers in the country to receive a professional contract. Jack’s played almost 150 times for Scotland over a 16-year career. Away from cricket, she’s a police officer in Glasgow.
Image: Marcus Harris of Australia poses before an Australian Nets Session at Adelaide Oval on December 15, 2020 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
5/18/2023 • 32 minutes, 32 seconds
Najam Sethi: ‘Pakistan doing everything we can to host the Asia Cup’
Following crunch talks in the United Arab Emirates, the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, Najam Sethi tells Alison Mitchell that there is still hope of holding the Asia Cup in Pakistan.
The location of the Asia Cup has been in doubt for some time. Pakistan are due to host the tournament in September, but last year the secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Jay Shah said that it would need to be held in a neutral venue, stating “we can't go there and they can't come here.”
Sethi says he has presented a hybrid model to Asian Cricket Council members, which guarantees that India would not need to play any matches in Pakistan with even the final being played in a neutral venue. Sethi says that if an agreement cannot be reached there is “a very distinct possibility” that Pakistan’s government will prevent the national team from travelling to India for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in October.
Sethi, who is currently chairman on an interim basis, says he expects to continue in the role for a three-year term and one of his plans is to launch a women’s league. He says he’s already in the process of sanctioning almost one billion rupees for the development of women’s cricket in Pakistan.
Also on Stumped, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta pay tribute to the careers of England’s Katherine Sciver-Brunt and South Africa’s Shabnim Ismail, as the fast bowlers both announced their retirement from international cricket.
Plus, we’re re-joined by former cricket journalist Jenny Thompson, who is travelling around the world to experience women’s cricket in as many different countries as she can. Since we last spoke with her in March, she has ticked off Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, South Korea and Papua New Guinea.
5/11/2023 • 30 minutes, 33 seconds
Is short format cricket at breaking point?
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss the volume of short format cricket. While the Indian Premier League continues to flourish, there is speculation that the ECB could be about to axe The Hundred in the UK in favour of a more sustainable T20 competition.
Cricket Australia have increased its salary cap in the Big Bash League to lure the top talent to the league, due to a number of overseas players quitting the league mid-season for the T20 tournaments in the UAE and South Africa. So how many competitions is too many?
We hear from Australia and Sussex player Steve Smith on playing in the County Championship and whether he will change his style of batting in the Ashes.
Plus we are joined by the first female member of ground staff to work at an international venue in England. Meg Lay works for Gloucestershire Cricket Club and tells us about the importance of getting more women involved in the game.
Photo: Lewis Gregory and Luke Wood of Trent Rockets celebrates victory during the Hundred Final match between Trent Rockets and Manchester Originals at Lord's Cricket Ground on September 03, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
5/4/2023 • 27 minutes, 18 seconds
Ireland: The challenges of Test status
It's been a rollercoaster of a journey for Ireland since securing Test status back in 2017.
Ireland have lost all five Tests they have played but this week, made history by posting their highest Test score of 492 against Sri Lanka.
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta react to this achievement with Ireland's head coach Heinrich Malan.
Following Mickey Arthur's appointment of Director of Cricket for Pakistan, we discuss how it will work combined with his current role as coach of Derbyshire in the County Championship and if it is a sign of how coaching will change with dual roles?
We also discuss the return of Ajinkya Rahane to India’s Test team for the upcoming World Test Championship final against Australia.
Image: Ireland head coach Heinrich Malan before the Men's T20 International match between Ireland and New Zealand at Stormont in Belfast. (Photo By Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
4/27/2023 • 29 minutes, 31 seconds
Happy 50th birthday Sachin Tendulkar
Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Charu Sharma are joined by Lawrence Booth, the editor of the Wisden Almanack. As the 160th edition is published he discusses the Wisden awards and how the book is still relevant in a digital age.
Plus Sachin Tendulkar turns 50 this week. We hear from the man himself on his career highlight and the team share some of their stand-out memories of the Indian legend. His son Arjun Tendulkar made his debut in the Indian Premier League this week meaning that the Tendulkar's are the first father-son duo to play in the IPL.
And we pay tribute to Aunty Faith Thomas who has died aged 90. She was the first Indigenous woman to play for Australia in any sport and represented Australia in an Ashes Test.
Photo: Sachin Tendulkar is seen during the Indian Premier League Final match between the Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings at Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad, India. (Credit: Getty Images)
4/20/2023 • 32 minutes, 34 seconds
Kim Cotton: The trailblazing umpire
Charu Sharma, Brett Sprigg and Nikesh Rughani are joined by New Zealand umpire Kim Cotton. Kim became the first female on-field umpire to stand in a men’s international between two full-member nations. She tells us how this historic moment felt, her journey to becoming an umpire and how she is paving the way for the next generation.
Plus, with the Indian Premier League in full swing, the team discuss how the tournament has unfolded. And one of Australia’s most influential player agents, Neil Maxwell has said the next phase of the IPL revolution would have players asking for permission from their Indian owners to represent Australia, not the other way around. The team debate their thoughts on whether this will happen.
And with two months to go until the men's Ashes begins, Brett Sprigg assesses the mood in Australia.
Photo: Match Umpire Kim Cotton signals during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Final match between Australia and South Africa at Newlands Stadium on February 26, 2023 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Credit: ICC via Getty Images)
4/13/2023 • 33 minutes, 12 seconds
Hayley Matthews: 'Captaining West Indies is still my number one priority'
We hear from West Indies captain and WPL winner Hayley Matthews. She tells us that playing for her country is still her ‘number one priority’ and she speaks about the Fairbreak Invitational and the calibre of associate players in the competition.
We discuss a landmark week in Australia where Cricket Australia have announced an increase in payments for all centrally contracted cricketers, with female players now set to become the nation's highest paid women's athletes in Australian team sport.
And is there still a place for the physical booklet in cricket/sport when we are in a digital age? We ask this question to Ian Marshall who is the editor of the Playfair Cricket Annual. And the team debate their different preparation techniques for commentary.
Photo: PAARL, SOUTH AFRICA - FEBRUARY 19: Hayley Matthews of West Indies plays a shot during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup group B match between Pakistan and West Indies at Boland Park on February 19, 2023 in Paarl, South Africa. (Photo by Jan Kruger-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
4/6/2023 • 34 minutes, 51 seconds
Amelia Kerr on winning the WPL & being open about mental health
Please note: This programme contains discussions about mental health and references to suicide. For more support, go to https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/1NGvFrTqWChr03LrYlw2Hkk/information-and-support-mental-health-self-harm
On this week’s Stumped, Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma speak with WPL winner and New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr. She tells us why she thinks Mumbai’s success in the inaugural competition is a pivotal moment for the women’s game, and explains why she’s a mental health advocate. Last year Kerr took a seven-month break from the sport to focus on her mental wellbeing and founded the website Out of the Rough to share stories and help others.
Kerr explains why it’s important to normalise conversations and remove stigma around the subject.
As the IPL gets underway, the team look ahead to the 16th edition of the competition and ask if anyone can challenge the defending champion Gujarat Titans. How will Brian Lara fair as the new Sunrisers Hyderabad head coach? And we discuss the fitness of England Test captain Ben Stokes.
Plus, as Stumped turns 400, we take a trip down memory lane to look back at the most memorable moments over the course of the show’s seven years (and counting).
Photo: Amelia Kerr of Team New Zealand prepares to bat prior to a T20 match between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on day five of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games at Edgbaston on August 02, 2022 on the Birmingham, England. (Credit: Getty Images)
3/30/2023 • 43 minutes, 7 seconds
Stumped on tour: The Women’s Premier League in Mumbai
On this week’s Stumped, our very own Charu Sharma flies out to Mumbai to visit some of the game’s biggest stars as the inaugural Women’s Premier League reaches its finale.
First up is Australia captain Meg Lanning, who has just led the Delhi Capitals to the first ever WPL final. She tells us that the competition is “on another level” to anything else she’s experienced, and discusses her five-month break from sport in which she worked in a café.
Charu then catches up with India all-rounder Shikha Pandey, who says the introduction of the WPL means “India will probably go on and win that World Cup title”. Pandey spent ten years working as a squadron leader in the Indian Air Force, which she says shaped her as a person. She discusses the “immense pressure” on young girls in the country and hopes that the coverage of the WPL will inspire parents to encourage their daughters to pursue cricket.
Image: BBC
3/23/2023 • 39 minutes, 9 seconds
Firooza Afghan: ‘Let us represent Afghanistan’
We speak to Afghanistan women’s cricketer Firooza Afghan who fled the country following the takeover of the Taliban in 2021 and now resides in Melbourne, Australia. The 18-year-old, says the team have not yet received any support from the International Cricket Council and hopes that they will take action to enable them to represent Afghanistan from their base in Australia.
After scoring his first Test century since November 2019, is Virat Kohli finally returning to form? The former India captain has scored over 100 in the main three formats of the game in the last six months, having endured a century drought in the three years prior. Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell praise his performance in India’s final series match with Australia and look ahead to the World Test Championship final between the two sides in June.
Plus, are New Zealand rivalling England to be Test cricket’s great entertainers? Within the last month, New Zealand have beaten England by a single run and edged past Sri Lanka on the last ball of the match, in two of the greatest ever finishes to a Test match.
Photo: Afghan girls celebrate after a cricket match at a school in Herat on September 2, 2013.(Credit: AFP via Getty Images)
3/16/2023 • 30 minutes, 33 seconds
The Women's Premier League has arrived
The Women’s Premier League is finally underway. Sunil Gupta tells us what it is like in India, the stand out stars and the team discuss the tournament so far.
Plus will the final Test match between India and Australia is underway. Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was in attendance alongside India’s prime minister Narendra Modi who took part in a series of events before the Test. The team debate the pageantry and whether the World Test Championship is making Test Matches shorter.
And we are joined by Jenny Thompson who is a former cricket writer and currently lives in Adelaide. She is about to begin a mammoth journey across the world to experience the impact women's cricket is making in many different countries around the world and the lessons we can all learn.
Photo: Tara Norris of Delhi Capitals celebrates the wicket of Heather Knight of Royal Challengers Bangalore during the WPL 2023 match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Delhi Capitals. (Credit: Getty Images)
3/9/2023 • 27 minutes, 48 seconds
Would England enforce an Ashes follow-on?
On this week’s episode of Stumped, Jim Maxwell tells us that he believes England would not enforce a follow-on against Australia in the Ashes. England became only the second national side ever to lose a Test match having enforced the follow-on, as New Zealand won by a single run in Wellington to draw the two-match series. Would they Brendon McCullum's side be as bold against their great rivals in an Ashes series?
Charu Sharma dismisses Alyssa Healy’s claims that Harmanpreet Kaur’s run-out in India’s Women’s T20 World Cup semi-final loss to Australia was a result of “lazy running”. Australia went on to the win the tournament for a sixth time, beating South Africa in the final. We hear from South Africa’s star batter Laura Wolvaardt about the experience of playing a home World Cup.
Plus the head coach of Spain, Corey Rutgers joins us to discuss his side’s dismantling of the Isle of Man. Spain bowled them out for just 10 runs, which is the lowest total ever in a men’s T20 match. They then hit two sixes from the first two legitimate balls they faced to reach their target.
Image: England coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes leave the field at the end day five of the Second Test Match between New Zealand and England at Basin Reserve. (Credit: Getty Images)
3/2/2023 • 35 minutes, 8 seconds
Night cricket in Pakistan
India have retained the Border-Gavaskar trophy after thrashing Australia in the first two Tests of the series. Jim Maxwell tells Alison Mitchell where it all went wrong for the tourists, as their attempts to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy end in premature failure.
Elsewhere in India, the chairman of their national selection committee has resigned following a sting operation by a local television channel. We discuss Chetan Sharma being caught on camera talking about the likes of Virat Kohli and Sourav Ganguly.
Plus, Sunil Gupta speaks to the founder of Khelo Kricket, Hadeel Obaid. It started as a website aiming to cover men’s grassroots cricket in Pakistan but has turned into an organisation which hosts tournaments for both men and women throughout the night. The player of the tournament in the first ever female edition, Fatima Sana, was named as the ICC’s Women’s Emerging Cricket of the Year in 2022.
Image: Khelo Kricket
2/23/2023 • 36 minutes, 33 seconds
The Women's Premier League auction
In a momentous week in women’s cricket when the Women’s Premier League Auction took place Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss the big signings and the players that were unsold.
Plus we are joined by Ben Gibson who is the Director of Financial Planning at UK based Wealth Management business Evelyn. He tells us how players should manage their newfound wealth.
And we discuss where it has all gone wrong for New Zealand in the Women's T20 World Cup.
Photo: Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur (C) of India celebrate the victory during the T20 International series between India and Australia at Dr DY Patil Cricket Stadium on December 11, 2022 in Mumbai, India. (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)
2/16/2023 • 32 minutes, 56 seconds
R Sridhar: My years with Shastri, Kohli and Dhoni
On this week’s episode of Stumped, R Sridhar takes us into the heart of the India dressing room. The former fielding coach for the men’s national side worked alongside the likes of Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni and Ravi Shastri between 2014 and 2021 and in his new book, ‘Coaching Beyond: My Days with the India Cricket Team’, he reveals details of conversations between the trio which have never previously been reported. He tells us about Shastri’s integrity as head coach, Kohli’s unbeatable work rate as a player and captain, and having to keep Dhoni’s retirement a secret.
Eleanor Oldroyd speaks to Pakistan all-rounder Nida Dar ahead of their Women’s T20 World Cup opener with India in South Africa. Dar, who has recently been named in the ICC’s Women’s T20I Team of the Year for 2022, says they're aiming to reach at least the semi-finals.
Plus, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss the thrilling Big Bash League final which saw Perth Scorchers win their fifth title.
Photo: The India fielding coach Ramakrishnan Sridhar looks on prior to game one of the Twenty20 International series between Australia and India at Manuka Oval in Canberra, Australia. (Credit: NurPhoto via Getty Images)
2/9/2023 • 34 minutes, 9 seconds
India’s World Cup history makers
India beat England by seven wickets in an exciting one-sided final held in South Africa to clinch their first world title. Could India winning the Under 19 World Cup be a landmark moment in the women's game? Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell all reflect on India's success.
Kim Garth has played in two World Cups for Ireland but in 2020, she quit the country to pursue her dream of playing professional cricket in Australia – Kim joins us on the programme to discuss her move and how she's now been selected for the Australian national team that aims to defend its title at the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Photo: India players celebrates after winning the ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup following the 2023 final between India and England at JB Marks Oval on January 29, 2023 in Potchefstroom, South Africa. (Credit: ICC via Getty Images)
2/2/2023 • 36 minutes, 18 seconds
'I found out about my Pakistan call-up on TV'
On this week’s episode of Stumped, Pakistan batsman Tayyab Tahir joins Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma to discuss his first call-up to the men’s national side, which he found out about when his name was read out on television. He impressed as a substitute in their One Day International series with New Zealand and is now gearing up for a debut stint in the Pakistan Super League with Karachi Kings. He tells us about his three years playing club cricket in England and sharing a dressing room with the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year, Babar Azam.
We also hear from the Afghanistan women’s cricketers who fled the country following the takeover of the Taliban in 2021 and have been living and playing in Australia ever since. They’ve called on the ICC to support them and have backed the Australia Cricket Board’s decision to withdraw from their ODI series with the Afghanistan men’s team.
Plus, we discuss Ashleigh Gardner’s criticism of the ACB’s decision to schedule a match on Australia Day, the public holiday which marks the arrival of the first British fleet in Sydney, 235 years ago. Gardner, who is from the indigenous Muruwari people, said it is a day of “hurt”, and that the scheduling "doesn't sit well" with her or the people she is representing.
Image: Credit - Billingham Synthonia Cricket Club
1/26/2023 • 30 minutes, 54 seconds
Shukri Conrad: 'I face a monumental task with South Africa'
On this week’s episode of Stumped, Shukri Conrad joins Eleanor Oldroyd, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta for his first interview since being appointed as the coach of South Africa men’s Test side. It’s been a disappointing period for the Proteas after heavy defeats in Australia and England, and Conrad admits that it’s not going to be easy to fix their issues. We discuss their batting frailties, whether Dean Elgar will remain as captain, and we pay tribute to legendary batsman Hashim Amla after he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.
Is India’s Shubman Gill realising his potential? After coming under pressure from Ishan Kishan for his place in the side, the 23-year-old repaid the faith shown in him as he became the youngest man to score a double century in a One Day International, helping his side beat New Zealand in the process. Plus, we ask how much pressure is on Virat Kohli ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with Australia?
We also take a look at the competition that Sachin Tendulkar says could transform the landscape of women's cricket. The Women’s U19 T20 World Cup is in full swing, and we look back on impressive wins for Bangladesh and Rwanda, while there’s yet more Mankad controversy.
Image: Dean Elgar of South Africa walk off after being dismissed during day one of the First Test match between Australia and South Africa at The Gabba on December 17, 2022 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde - CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)
1/19/2023 • 28 minutes, 24 seconds
Belinda Clark: My statue, the Women's IPL and Afghanistan
Former Australia captain Belinda Clark joins Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma after a statue was unveiled of her at the Sydney Cricket Ground, the first of any female cricketer in the world. She gives her thoughts on the current state of the women’s game, including Meg Lanning’s return to the Australia side after a five month break, and the upcoming inaugural women’s edition of the Indian Premier League.
With just months to go until the start of the Women’s IPL, uncertainty remains over just about every detail…including the name! Charu brings us up to speed on the latest developments.
We also discuss the news that Australia have withdrawn from their ODI series with Afghanistan, following the Taliban's recent announcement regarding further restrictions on women and girls' education and employment. The chief executive of the International Cricket Council, Geoff Allardice, has told the BBC that no women’s or girl’s cricket is being played in the country to their knowledge.
Image: Belinda Clark poses for a photo with her newly revealed statue during day two of the Second Test match in the series between Australia and South Africa at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 05, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Brett Hemmings - CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)
1/12/2023 • 28 minutes, 59 seconds
Steve Smith's milestone and the female bat pioneer
Alison Mitchell and Jim Maxwell are at the Sydney Cricket Ground as Australia take on South Africa in their third and final Test Match of the series. They are joined by Sunil Gupta and debate how cricket should tackle the problem of bad light and ask whether a pink ball should be used? Jim is also full of praise for Steve Smith who has now scored 30 Test centuries to surpass Sir Donald Bradman.
The team discuss the player's that hit the headlines and the stars that missed out at the Indian Premier League mini auction and wish Indian star Rishabh Pant all the best after he sustained injuries in a car crash at the end of 2022.
Plus we are joined by Clare Johnston who was the first female accredited cricket bat maker in the world. She lives in Australia and tells us about the importance of making specialist bats for female cricketers and her hopes for the future.
Photo: Steve Smith of Australia celebrates after reaching their half century during day two of the Second Test match in the series between Australia and South Africa at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 05, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley - CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)
1/5/2023 • 31 minutes, 8 seconds
The best of Stumped in 2022
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma take a look back at the best of Stumped in 2022.
The show features an interview with former Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist on his dear friend Shane Warne who died in March 2022. He shares his memories of playing alongside him and what made Warne such a special player and person. Plus we hear from the stand out star of the English Men's Test Summer, Jonny Bairstow.
We go back to the morning of the 24th of February. This was the day Russia invaded Ukraine and the Chief Executive of the Ukraine Cricket Federation, Kobus Olivier joined us to share what was happening in the country and how he has been spearheading Ukraine's drive to become an associate member of the International Cricket Council.
One half of Australian cricket's power couple, Alyssa Healy, tells us what life is really like living with her husband Mitchell Starc and whether she would face him in the nets.
Photo: Adam Gilchrist, Ricky Ponting and Shane Warne of Australia pose with a replica Ashes Urn after securing victory on day five of the third Ashes Test Match between Australia and England at the WACA on December 18, 2006 in Perth, Australia. Australia's victory in the third Test Match means they regain the Ashes. (Photo by Hamish Blair/Getty Images)
12/27/2022 • 40 minutes, 8 seconds
Gillespie: Shane Warne, the BBL and Men's Ashes
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by Adelaide Strikers Head Coach Jason Gillespie. His side created history by bowling out Sydney Thunder for just 15 runs in the Big Bash. He discusses the future of the BBL and the growth of T20 cricket around the world. He also tells us how he thinks England men will get on in next year's Ashes, pays tribute to his dear friend Shane Warne and shares who inspires him the most as a coach.
Plus we discuss the incredible Test debut of England's 18 year old Rehan Ahmed who became the youngest Test cricketer to take a five-wicket haul on debut.
And Charu Sharma tells us that England's Sophie Ecclestone is the finest spinner right now in women's cricket.
Photo: Jason Gillespie, coach of the Strikers looks on from the dugout during the Big Bash League match between the Perth Scorchers and the Adelaide Striker. (Credit: Getty Images)
12/22/2022 • 32 minutes, 55 seconds
Who should Australia fear?
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss which Test side should be the most confident going into 2023 and who should be the most worried. South Africa sit second in the table with Sri Lanka third but have England left it too late to make it to the final? They sit in fifth.
The team talk about England winning their first Test series in Pakistan since 2001, Australia beating the West Indies and the first day of the first Test Match between Bangladesh and India.
After India women inflicted Australia's first defeat in 21 matches, we ask whether this could be a turning point for the side and debate whether it is healthy for the India Women's team to have no permanent head coach.
Plus we hear the second part of our interview with West Indies legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul who tells us the difference between coaching men’s and women’s cricket and the egos involved.
Photo: Marnus Labuschagne of Australia celebrates making his century during day one of the Second Test Match in the series between Australia and the West Indies at Adelaide Oval on December 08, 2022 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)
12/15/2022 • 32 minutes, 56 seconds
Chanderpaul: Father and son
Alison Mitchell and Jim Maxwell are in Adelaide where Australia are taking on the West Indies in their second and final Test Match of the series. Tagenarine Chanderpaul made his Test debut for the West Indies last week scoring a maiden half century following in his father's footsteps. Sunil Gupta has spoken to his father, the legendary Shivnarine Chanderpaul on what it was like to witness this. They both share the same unique stance at the crease and Shivnarine tells us how that came about. Plus he also tells us about being inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame.
On the eve of Australia’s Test Match against the West Indies, David Warner announced that he had withdrawn his application to have his lifetime captaincy ban removed. Jim Maxwell tells us his thoughts on the decision.
The team also discuss England’s remarkable Test Match win against Pakistan in Rawalpindi and ask if England Captain Ben Stokes was brave or reckless with his declaration?
Photo: Tagenarine Chanderpaul of the West Indies is presented his cap by Brian Lara during day one of the First Test match between Australia and the West Indies at Optus Stadium on November 30, 2022 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney - CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)
12/8/2022 • 37 minutes, 21 seconds
Batting brilliance or poor pitches?
The Men's Australian Summer has begun with a Test Match against the West Indies. Alison Mitchell and Jim Maxwell have watched the first two days including two double centuries from Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith. Plus the tell us about the confident debut from Tagenarine Chanderpaul, the son of legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul.
England have returned to Pakistan to play a Test Match series for the first time in 17 years, but after four centuries were scored on day one, we discuss whether it was brilliant batting or a poor pitch?
And it was third time lucky for the Adelaide Strikers who have finally won their first Women's Big Bash championship and stunned the Sydney Sixers with a 10-run triumph in the final. We are joined by opening batter Katie Mack.
Steve Smith of Australia celebrates scoring a double century during day two of the First Test match between Australia and the West Indies at Optus Stadium on December 01, 2022 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
12/1/2022 • 32 minutes
Heather Knight: Captaincy, coaching and comebacks
Alison Mitchell, Geoff Lemon and Sunil Gupta are joined by England women’s captain Heather Knight to preview their tour to the Caribbean and discuss her comeback from injury. She tells us about meeting their new coach, Jon Lewis.
The Hundred will return for its third season with the first women's player draft in a major UK sport. the team debate whether this is a step forward in the women’s game.
And Suryakumar Yadav has been stealing the headlines after hitting 111 in just 51 balls against New Zealand. Sunil Gupta tells us more about this next Indian star.
Photo: Heather Knight of England looks on during Day Four of the Kia Women's Test Match between England Women and Australia Women at The Cooper Associates County Ground on July 21, 2019 in Taunton, England. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
11/24/2022 • 29 minutes, 59 seconds
England's heroics and the IPL dilemma
Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Charu Sharma reflect on England winning the Men’s T20 World Cup and speak to World Cup winner Tymal Mills. Plus we discuss Pakistan’s disappointment and ask where it has all gone wrong for India?
And Alison Mitchell will be speaking to England 50 over World Cup winner Liam Plunkett about the launch of Major League Cricket in America as he signs up to play in the league which begins next year.
Plus the team debate what is better, white ball or red ball only contracts.
Photo: Ben Stokes of England celebrates victory following during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Final match between Pakistan and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on November 13, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
11/17/2022 • 34 minutes, 30 seconds
Is Pakistan's name on the T20 World Cup?
Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell reflect on Pakistan’s journey to the final of the Men’s T20 World Cup.
We are joined by Netherlands coach Ryan Cook who tells us about their victory over South Africa. It was a win which had a huge impact on the tournament as a whole, and it also guaranteed the Dutch their place at the next T20 World Cup in 2024.
Jim Maxwell also gives his thoughts on Australia's exit from the T20 World Cup.
Image: Mohammad Rizwan and Babar Azam of Pakistan celebrate after winning by 10 wickets following the ICC Men's T20 World Cup match between India and Pakistan at Dubai International Stadium on October 24, 2021 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Michael Steele-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
11/10/2022 • 32 minutes, 52 seconds
Wasim Akram: In my own words
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta are joined by one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time and former captain of Pakistan, Wasim Akram. He speaks to us about his autobiography discussing the highlights of his career, plus detailing his cocaine addiction and his time in rehab. Wasim also addressed allegations of match-fixing during his career again denying any involvement in corruption. In 2000, Pakistan players Saleem Malik and Ata-ur-Rehman were banned for match-fixing. A report into the scandal by Justice Malik Qayyum found Wasim not guilty of match-fixing but did recommend that he be fined and not allowed to captain Pakistan because he refused to cooperate and "cannot be said to be above suspicion".
Plus the team debate why this Men's T20 World Cup is the most open competition we have seen for a while and who their stand out performers have been.
Photo: Pakistan`s bowler Wasim Akram celebrates the runout of England batsman Graham Thorpe (not in picture) during the 3rd day of the 2nd test match at Old Trafford in Manchester, 02 June 2001. (Credit: MARTYN HARRISON/AFP via Getty Images)
11/3/2022 • 30 minutes, 10 seconds
India v Pakistan: The greatest T20 match ever
Has there ever been a better T20 match than the one between India and Pakistan? Jim Maxwell reckons it was “the greatest sporting event ever staged on neutral territory”.
We'll reflect on the T20 World Cup match that had it all, as India registered another win over their great rivals, thanks to Virat Kohli's brilliance. Alison Mitchell and Charu Sharma also discuss England's shock loss to Ireland, as well as Marcus Stoinis' match-winning knock for Australia.
Plus we're joined by the first black cricketer to play for England, Roland Butcher, as we mark the UK's Black History Month.
Image: India's Virat Kohli (L) celebrates their win during the ICC men's Twenty20 World Cup 2022 cricket match between India and Pakistan at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne on October 23, 2022. (Photo by WILLIAM WEST/AFP via Getty Images)
10/27/2022 • 34 minutes, 24 seconds
Saudi Arabia: Cricket’s sponsorship dilemma
On this week’s episode of Stumped, should cricket care where its funding comes from?
The International Cricket Council have announced a partnership with a Saudi state-owned oil company, raising issues of both sustainability and an association with a country that has a poor human rights record. Alison Mitchell finds out more from the BBC’s Sports Editor, Dan Roan.
Elsewhere, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss the stand-off between India and Pakistan, which could see the latter boycott next year’s 50-over World Cup.
Plus, we’ll pick out our best moments from the group stage of the men’s T20 World Cup, including shock wins for Namibia and Scotland, as well as a rare hat-trick.
Image: The Saudi national flag flutters at the historical site of al-Tarif in Diriyah district, on the outskirts of Saudi capital Riyadh, on November 20, 2020. - Saudi Arabia hosts the G20 summit on November 21 in a first for an Arab nation, with the downsized virtual forum dominated by efforts to tackle a resurgent coronavirus pandemic and crippling economic crisis. (Photo by FAYEZ NURELDINE / AFP) (Photo by FAYEZ NURELDINE/AFP via Getty Images)
10/20/2022 • 33 minutes, 22 seconds
Josh Hazlewood: How I became the world’s best T20 bowler
It’s been an incredible turnaround for Josh Hazlewood. Between March 2016 and September 2020, the fast bowler did not play in a T20 match for Australia. Now, ahead of the start of this year’s T20 World Cup, Hazlewood is ranked as the world’s best T20 bowler. He sits down with Alison Mitchell to discuss his rise to the top and the impact of the Indian Premier League on his career.
We also preview the start of the tournament, which gets under way in Australia this weekend. Will the hosts retain their title? Could India win it for the first time in 15 years? Or will there be a surprise winner? Charu Sharma and Brett Sprigg share their thoughts and predictions.
Image: Josh Hazlewood of Australia fields off his own bowling during game one of the One Day International Series between Australia and New Zealand at Cazaly's Stadium on September 06, 2022 in Cairns, Australia. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)
10/13/2022 • 34 minutes, 57 seconds
Jonny Bairstow: My 2022
On this week’s Stumped, Alison Mitchell speaks to England cricketer Jonny Bairstow about the highs and lows of 2022. The batter has been ruled out of this month’s T20 World Cup after breaking his leg in a golfing accident, but has just been awarded the Bob Willis Trophy, which is given to England’s best cricketer each year.
Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta discuss another star who won't be at the World Cup, India’s Jasprit Bumrah. The fast bowler will miss the tournament with a back injury, but is Ravindra Jadeja an even bigger loss to Rahul Dravid’s side?
Plus, we speak to Ireland captain Laura Delany after her team qualified for next year’s Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa.
Image: Jonathan Bairstow of England celebrates reaching his century with Joe Root during day five of Fifth LV= Insurance Test Match between England and India at Edgbaston on July 05, 2022 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
10/6/2022 • 32 minutes, 2 seconds
Mankad: Is it in the spirit of the game?
Which side are you on? In the eyes of many, it is seen as unsporting manner despite being perfectly within the laws of cricket, is a run out at the non striker end deemed acceptable? Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma all discuss the controversy surrounding England's third One Day International against India.
After leading Australia to gold at this year's Commonwealth Games, Shelley Nitschke has been appointed Head Coach on a permanent basis. Shelley joins us on the programme to discuss a new era for the women's national team.
We also pay tribute to arguably the best fast bowler women's cricket has seen, India’s Jhulan Goswami who was playing in her 204th and final one-day international.
Picture Credit:- Charlie Dean of England shakes hands with Deepti Sharma of India and the India team after she was Run Out, Mankad, by Deepti Sharma of India during the 3rd Royal London ODI match between England and India at Lord's Cricket Ground on September 24, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Christopher Lee - ECB/ECB via Getty Images)
9/29/2022 • 31 minutes, 37 seconds
The inside story of England's tour of Pakistan
On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma, we speak to a journalist staying in England’s team hotel during their first tour of Pakistan for 17 years. Nick Hoult, the chief cricket correspondent for the Telegraph, shares his experience of watching England’s win in Karachi with security armed with sniper rifles surrounding the press box.
We also discuss the inaugural auction for Cricket South Africa's SA20 league and ask whether the inexperienced Tristan Stubbs is worthy of being the most expensive player in the competition.
Plus, we hear about what cricket's like in the small European country of Montenegro. The national side even boast a former English Premier League footballer amongst its ranks!
Photo: Moeen Ali of England and Babar Azam of Pakistan are seen at the toss ahead of the 1st IT20 match between Pakistan and England at Karachi National Stadium on September 20, 2022 in Karachi, Pakistan. (Credit: Getty Images)
9/22/2022 • 30 minutes, 25 seconds
'I taught the DRS system to the Queen'
On this week’s episode of Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma, we remember Queen Elizabeth II, the UK's longest-serving monarch, who died at Balmoral aged 96, after reigning for 70 years.
We hear from the former England captain Charlotte Edwards, who shares her memories of meeting Her Majesty the Queen and how she taught the Queen all about the decision review system.
Former Indian wicket-keeper Farokh Engineer also tells us his unique experience of when the Queen revealed his wife had given birth to a baby daughter.
We also discuss Sri Lanka's surprise Asia Cup win following their victory over Pakistan in the final.
Photo: South Africa huddle during Day Four of the Third LV= Insurance Test Match between England and South Africa at The Kia Oval on September 11, 2022 in London, England. (Credit: Getty Images for Surrey CCC)
9/15/2022 • 26 minutes, 28 seconds
Zimbabwe’s historic win in Australia
On this week’s episode of Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma, we react to Zimbabwe’s shock win over Australia. It’s the first time that they have beaten Australia on their own soil. We speak to Zimbabwe’s man of the match Ryan Burl, who took five wickets for just ten runs.
We’re also joined by England bowler Mark Wood ahead of the release of his self-help book, The Wood Life! The team get a few life lessons from the man who England’s Test captain Ben Stokes describes as a “32-year-old going on 16”.
Plus, after the second season of The Hundred came to an end, we assess the success of the competition.
Zimbabwe's Ryan Burl acknowledges the crowd after taking five wickets during the third one-day international (ODI) cricket match between Australia and Zimbabwe at the Riverway Stadium in Townsville on September 3, 2022. (Photo by William WEST / AFP) /
9/8/2022 • 36 minutes, 5 seconds
Graeme Smith: SA20 to follow IPL's example
On this week's Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta, we speak to the former South Africa captain and commissioner of the new SA20 league, Graeme Smith.
Smith says he hopes that the league will become the second best league in the world behind the Indian Premier League, and says that despite all six of the teams being owned by IPL franchise owners, the league is open for Pakistani cricketers to participate in.
Plus, our very own Charu Sharma sends us a message from his trip to cover cricket in Kenya.
Image: LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 30: Television presenter and ICC commentator Graeme Smith before the Group Stage match of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 between England and South Africa at The Oval on May 30, 2019 in London, England. (Photo Visionhaus/Getty Images)
9/1/2022 • 34 minutes, 21 seconds
Shadab Khan: 'Babar Azam is the best in the world'
On this week’s Stumped with Eleanor Oldroyd, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta, we speak to Pakistan’s white-ball vice-captain Shadab Khan ahead of the Asia Cup. The 23-year-old says the tournament is ideal preparation for the T20 World Cup in October and claims that his team-mate and captain Babar Azam has now overtaken India legend Virat Kohli as the world’s best batsman across all formats of the game.
Plus the chief executive of Cricket Namibia, Johan Muller tells us about cricket’s development and popularity in Namibia during what has been described as a “golden era” for the country.
8/25/2022 • 27 minutes, 50 seconds
Chris Gayle: Introducing The 6ixty
On this week's Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta, we speak to the self-proclaimed Universe Boss…Chris Gayle! The West Indies legend is the ambassador for a quirky new tournament called The 6ixty, which takes place in the Caribbean next week.
We find out why we should be excited about a competition with some very peculiar new rules, including a mid-game fan vote on a free hit.
We also get the 42-year-old's views on the future of cricket, plus we'll find out how long he wants to continue playing for.
IMAGE: Chris Gayle of West Indies looks on ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup match between West Indies and Sri Lanka at Sheikh Zayed stadium on November 04, 2021 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Gareth Copley-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
8/18/2022 • 30 minutes, 5 seconds
Australia: The perfect team?
Australia’s domination of the women’s game continues! Aside from winning both the T20 and ODI formats of the World Cup, as well as being the holders of the Ashes, they are now Commonwealth Games gold medallists! We find out what makes them so successful from bowler Megan Schutt.
We discuss Trent Boult's decision to opt out of his international contract with New Zealand in order to spend more time with his family and play in domestic leagues around the world.
Plus, we reflect on the life and legacy of legendary South African umpire Rudi Koertzen, following his death at the age of 73.
IMAGE: Megan Schutt and Meg Lanning of Team Australia celebrate after winning the gold medal following the Cricket T20 - Gold Medal match between Team Australia and Team India on day ten of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games at Edgbaston on August 07, 2022 on the Birmingham, England. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
8/11/2022 • 32 minutes, 23 seconds
Pakistan: 25 years of international cricket
On this week’s Stumped with Isabelle Westbury, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma, how did Pakistan's women go from having never played an international match to the Commonwealth Games in the space of 25 years? We’ll find out the answer from journalist and author, Aayush Puthran, who has written a book on the subject.
We'll also discuss whether the world's best cricketers could soon be contracted all year round by Indian Premier League franchises and what the impact of that would be on the international game.
Plus we reflect on the career of West Indies star Deandra Dottin after she announced her international retirement.
Image: Pakistan pose for a team photo during the 2022 ICC Women's Cricket World Cup match between New Zealand and Pakistan at Hagley Oval on March 26, 2022 in Christchurch, New Zealand. (Photo by Kai Schwoerer-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
8/4/2022 • 32 minutes, 48 seconds
Lizelle Lee: Why I quit South Africa
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta are joined by the reigning One-Day international cricketer of the year, Lizelle Lee who explains why she chose to retire from international cricket in the middle of South Africa’s tour of England. The 30 year old reveals failing a weight test was a significant factor in her decision and says Cricket South Africa threatened to deny her an NOC to participate in the T20 leagues around the world. Lee, who’s shock decision means she misses out on the Commonwealth Games, also discusses whether cricketers need to look a certain way and if we should change the way we view fitness in cricket.
(You will also hear Cricket South Africa's right of reply, in response to Lizelle Lee's interview)
Lizelle Lee of the Stars prepares to bat during the Women's Big Bash League match between the Melbourne Stars and the Sydney Thunder at Horwall Oval on December 16, 2017 in Penrith, Australia. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)
7/28/2022 • 32 minutes, 42 seconds
Suzie Bates: From Olympic basketballer to Commonwealth Games cricketer
On this week's Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma we look ahead to the Commonwealth Games with New Zealand star Suzie Bates. 14 years after representing her country in basketball at the Olympics in Beijing in 2008, she says helping the White Ferns to medal in Birmingham would be a career highlight.
Plus, after England's Test captain Ben Stokes announced his retirement from one-day internationals, we debate whether players are being asked to play too much cricket.
Image: Suzie Bates of New Zealand reacts to a boundary during the 2022 ICC Women's Cricket World Cup match between New Zealand and England at Eden Park on March 20, 2022 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Fiona Goodall-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
7/21/2022 • 34 minutes, 22 seconds
Prabath Jayasuriya: Sri Lanka’s unlikely star
On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma, we discuss Sri Lanka's heroic win over Australia to draw the Warne-Muralitharan trophy, amid a political and economic crisis within the country. Is the honeymoon period over for Australia captain Pat Cummins and coach Andrew McDonald after they suffered their first Test defeat in their new roles?
We speak to the newly appointed president of FICA, former Australia captain Lisa Sthalekar, on what it means to be the first woman in the position and her goals while in the role.
Plus, how do you hit a six in indoor cricket? With the Indoor World Cup coming up in October, we learn all about the rules of the sport with Australia's Clive Rose.
IMAGE: Sri Lanka's Prabath Jayasuriya celebrates after taking six wickets during the fourth day of the second cricket Test match between Sri Lanka and Australia at the Galle International Cricket Stadium in Galle on July 11, 2022. (Photo by ISHARA S. KODIKARA / AFP) (Photo by ISHARA S. KODIKARA/AFP via Getty Images)
7/14/2022 • 30 minutes, 22 seconds
England v India: The record-breaking Test
On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta, are England the most feared side in Test cricket? After earning their fourth consecutive victory in the rearranged Test with India, the sky looks to be the limit for Brendon McCullum's side.
We hear from former South African spinner Robin Peterson after Stuart Broad broke his record for the most runs conceded in one over in Test history. The England bowler conceded 35 runs with India captain Jasprit Bumrah at the crease.
Plus the chief executive of the New Zealand Cricket Players Association, Heath Mills tells us more about the landmark equal pay deal for the country's male and female professional cricketers.
Image: India Captain Jasprit Bumrah gestures ahead of day five of Fifth LV= Insurance Test Match between England and India at Edgbaston on July 05, 2022 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
7/7/2022 • 32 minutes, 42 seconds
Lauren Cheatle: ‘My cancer restored my love for cricket’
On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma, we’re joined by Australian international Lauren Cheatle as she eyes a return to cricket. After two surgeries to remove early-stage skin cancer and a fourth shoulder reconstruction, the 23-year-old is aiming to return for the Sydney Sixers in the Women’s Big Bash League in October.
We reflect on Eoin Morgan’s international retirement, his legacy as a World Cup-winning skipper and ask whether Jos Buttler is the right man to replace him as England’s white-ball captain. Plus we discuss India’s re-arranged Test with England, ten months on from its original date.
Photo: Lauren Cheatle of the Sixers celebrates dismissing Grace Harris of the Heat during the Women's Big Bash League match between the Brisbane Heat and the Sydney Sixers. (Credit: Getty Images)
6/30/2022 • 36 minutes, 21 seconds
Dan Christian: Diary of a cricketer
On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta we ask whether you would rather miss the birth of your first child or have the chance to play in a World Cup? For Australian international Dan Christian that was a dilemma he had to consider. He joins us to discuss his book ‘The All-Rounder’, in which he documents a chaotic year of dodging Covid-19 and travelling the world playing cricket.
Plus we’ll catch up with the chief executive of the Ukraine Cricket Federation, Kobus Olivier. Kobus spoke to Stumped in February on the day Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine. He has since fled his home in Kyiv and started a new life teaching refugees how to play cricket in Croatia. We’ll also look ahead to South Africa women’s first Test match in over seven years.
Image: Dan Christian of the Sixers celebrates the Big Bash League match between the Sydney Sixers and the Brisbane Heat at Metricon Stadium, on January 10, 2021, in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)
6/23/2022 • 36 minutes, 15 seconds
Jonny Bairstow: 'The innings of his life'
On this week's Stumped, Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma look back at England’s dramatic final day victory over New Zealand in the second Test at Trent Bridge. We discuss Jonny Bairstow’s history-making second innings knock as he hit the second-fastest century by an England batter in Test cricket, making 136 from 92 balls.
And we hear from Netherlands head coach Ryan Campbell, who in April was placed in an induced coma for seven days after suffering an unexplained cardiac arrest. The Australian won’t be in charge of his side when they face England’s ODI side in a three-match series, but the team find out about his recovery and when he aims to be back in charge of his team.
Photo: England batsman Jonny Bairstow celebrates his century during day five of the Second Test Match between England and New Zealand at Trent Bridge. (Credit: Getty Images)
6/16/2022 • 33 minutes, 6 seconds
Will Root surpass Tendulkar’s runs record?
Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Charu Sharma discuss the future of Test cricket following comments made by the ICC chairman, Greg Barclay who’s questioned the direction of the longest format of the game, particularly in women’s cricket.
The team celebrate Joe Root’s milestone moment during the first Test with New Zealand at Lord’s, becoming the 14th player to reach 10,000 Test runs and ask if the former England captain could surpass the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s run record.
We wave goodbye to another Indian legend, as Mithali Raj announces her retirement from international cricket. Plus we speak to the President of the Nigeria Cricket Federation after they received a global award from the ICC for their efforts to use cricket as a tool for good.
Photo: Joe Root of England is applauded all the way back into the pavilion after steering England to victory during Day 4 of the First Test match between England and New Zealand at Lord's Cricket Ground. (Credit: Getty Images)
6/9/2022 • 35 minutes, 45 seconds
David Miller: IPL winner
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by South Africa’s David Miller, days after he helped Gujarat Titans win the Indian Premier League in their first ever season. He tells us about the change in mentality which helped him to top the batting charts, the influence of his captain Hardik Pandya, and his hopes of winning the T20 World Cup later this year.
We cross to Sri Lanka as Australia prepare to touch down for an all-format series in the midst of a political and economic crisis in the country, and the team also discuss why England couldn’t sell out Lord’s for the first Test match of the Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum era.
IMAGE: David Miller of South Africa looks on ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup match between England and SA at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on November 06, 2021 in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Alex Davidson/Getty Images)
6/2/2022 • 35 minutes, 34 seconds
IPL 15: The rise of the new franchises
On this week’s BBC Stumped with Charu Sharma, Alex Hartley and Jim Maxwell, we discuss the Indian Premier League as the competition reaches its climax. Who has caught their eye? Which franchises have failed to reach the heights expected of them? Has the introduction of two new franchises been a success?
The team discuss the state of the women’s game. Is it the last year of the Women’s T20 Challenge before a possible long-awaited Women’s IPL is launched next year?
Award-winning journalist Tim Wigmore joins the team to discuss the release of his new book Crickonomics: The Anatomy of Modern Cricket finding new angles to the sport through statistics.
(Photo: Chennai Super Kings players celebrate with the trophy after the IPL Twenty20 cricket final match between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Credit:AFP/Getty Images)
5/26/2022 • 29 minutes, 54 seconds
Ross Taylor: Retirement, New Zealand and McCullum's England
Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Charu Sharma are joined by New Zealand legend Ross Taylor following his retirement from international cricket. We discuss Ross’ journey through the sport, his departure from the New Zealand captaincy, the high of winning the World Test Championship and the low of the 2019 World Cup final defeat. Plus we get his thoughts on the new England men’s Test coach – his former team-mate – Brendon McCullum.
The team also discuss England’s new white-ball coach Matthew Mott as well as reflecting on the death of former Australia cricketer Andrew Symonds.
IMAGE: Ross Taylor of New Zealand celebrates his century during game two of the One Day International series between New Zealand and South Africa at Hagley Oval. (Credit: Getty Images)
5/19/2022 • 32 minutes, 7 seconds
Brendon McCullum's England revolution?
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma react to Brendon McCullum's appointment as England's new Test cricket coach. The former New Zealand captain has signed a four-year deal to succeed Chris Silverwood, who left his position in February.
The team speak to two-time World Cup winner Anya Shrubsole and find out whether the former England bowler is happy with her decision to retire from international cricket.
Plus we meet Luke Georgeson, the all-rounder who switched his allegiance from New Zealand to Ireland before having a change of heart and switching back just two weeks later.
IMAGE: New Zealand cricketer Brendon McCullum rings the 5-minute bell before the start of play on day three of the 3rd Investec Test match between England and Sri Lanka at Lord's Cricket Ground. (Credit: Getty Images)
5/12/2022 • 31 minutes, 53 seconds
Umran Malik: India's next star?
Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Charu Sharma find out more about the man touted as India’s next star. Umran Malik, an uncapped 22-year-old, has taken the Indian Premier League by storm with the fastest bowling and best bowling figures in the competition this year.
The team attempt to learn what an NFT is and ask why we’re starting to see them in the world of cricket, as we speak to the co-founder of the world’s first licensed digital collectibles platform for cricket.
We also react to the news that the man heralded as “the Father of Cricket” WG Grace, has had a couple of centuries taken off him, despite his last innings coming over one hundred years ago.
IMAGE: DIBYANGSHU SARKAR/AFP via Getty Images
5/5/2022 • 28 minutes, 53 seconds
Captain Stokes: England's new era
On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Charu Sharma, we discuss the announcement of Ben Stokes as England’s new Test captain.
The team meet Britain’s oldest cricket umpire, Keith Dibb who at 86 years old is showing no signs of slowing down. Dibb has even had surgery on his shoulders to ensure he can keep signalling outs and sixes!
And Bhutan’s vice captain Anju Gurung tells us about her cricket journey as she prepares to take part in the FairBreak Invitational alongside some of the biggest stars in the women’s game.
IMAGE: Ben Stokes of England during day four of the tour match between West Indies President's XI and England XI at Coolidge Cricket Ground on March 04, 2022 in Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
4/28/2022 • 28 minutes, 8 seconds
Root: Wisden and his rollercoaster year
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by Lawrence Booth, the editor of arguably the most famous sports book in the world. The 159th edition of the Wisden Almanack has just been released and Lawrence shares which cricketer has been named the leading cricketer of the year and women’s cricketer of 2021.
Plus with the ever changing set up in English men's cricket we debate who should be the next captain and the next coach of the national side and which one should take priority.
And we discuss the Indian Premier League as the competition reaches the halfway stage. The last five winner have been either the Chennai Super Kings or the Mumbai Indians, yet this season Chennai and Mumbai sit bottom of the table with only one win from 12 matches between them. Conversely the new teams Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans are top of the table with 9 wins out of 12. We debate why this could be the case.
Photo: England captain Joe Root waits for the toss ahead of day one of the 3rd Test match between the West Indies and England at National Cricket Stadium on March 24, 2022 in Grenada, Grenada. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
4/21/2022 • 36 minutes, 1 second
Alyssa Healy special
Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Matt Clinch are joined by Australian superstar Alyssa Healy.
She currently tops the ICC Women's One Day International player rankings and most recently smashed 170 runs in the World Cup final to help Australia win their seventh World Cup title. She tells us all about that final, how she felt playing her shots and how special it was to play after carrying drinks in the 2013 World Cup.
She also tells us about the dominance of Australian cricket, the possibility of a women's Indian Premier League and her family’s influence on her life.
We also hear what comes first in her life; cricket, golf, her dogs or her husband... Australian bowler Mitchell Starc.
Photo: Alyssa Healy of Australia poses with the World Cup trophy in front of fans after Australia won the 2022 ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Final match between Australia and England in Christchurch, New Zealand. (Credit: Getty Images)
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4/14/2022 • 31 minutes, 57 seconds
Rajasthan Royals: The IPL academy making waves in Cornwall
Did you know the Rajasthan Royals have a cricket academy based in Cornwall, South West of England? That’s right!
On this week’s BBC Stumped, Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell are joined by Sean Hooper, the head coach of the new academy, to discuss how the affiliation with the IPL franchise came about.
We also discuss Australia’s dominance in the women’s game, after beating England in the Women’s World Cup Final, plus we discuss The Hundred draft and whether the format has global appeal.
Photo: A group of spectators make their way to the cricket as Truro Cathedral is seen in the background during the 4th NatWest International One Day match between England Women and India Women at Truro Cricket Club on July 8, 2012 in Truro, England. (Credit: Getty Images)
4/7/2022 • 31 minutes, 46 seconds
The World Cup: The final and the fallout
On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Sunil Gupta and Jim Maxwell. We remember Australia cricket legend Shane Warne after his emotional memorial service.
Plus we preview the Women’s World Cup Final. Can Australia can win nine matches out of nine to lift the trophy? Have England peaked at the right time? Sunil Gupta also tells us the reaction to India’s early exit from the competition.
After England men were beaten 1-0 against the West Indies we ask if it is the right time to appoint a new captain or if the team should wait for a permanent coach?
Photo: Meg Lanning, Captain of Australia(L) and Heather Knight, Captain of England look on during the ICC Women's World Cup 2017 match between England and Australia at The Brightside Ground on July 9, 2017 in Bristol, England. (Photo by Harry Trump-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
3/31/2022 • 34 minutes, 38 seconds
The IPL expansion
The Indian Premier League begins this weekend and Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Sunil Gupta preview the latest season by analysing the two new teams entering the competition and debate how the Royal Challengers Bangalore will fare without Virat Kohli as captain.
Plus with a much changed England Test team currently facing the West Indies in the Caribbean, we head back to 1953 when the action was not quite as amicable. Who Only Cricket Know tells the story of the second most controversial tour in English cricket history both on and off the field. We are joined by the author Doctor David Woodhouse.
We are joined by former England, Surrey and Sussex bowler Stuart Meaker who is currently in Poland trying to help refugees from Ukraine by helping with Visa's and delivering supplies.
Photo: MS Dhoni of the Chennai Super Kings hits another six during the 2010 Airtel Champions League Twenty20 final match between Chennai Super Kings and Chevrolet Warriors from Bidvest Wanderers Stadium on September 26, 2010 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Duif du Toit/Gallo Images/Getty Images)
3/24/2022 • 32 minutes, 1 second
The new T20 tournament breaking barriers
Eleanor Oldroyd, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss whether England have left it too little too late in the Women's World Cup and whether Australia are the real deal.
Deandre Dottin, Harmanpreet Kaur and Mignon Du Preez are just some of the biggest names to sign up to a brand new women's cricket tournament featuring players from as many as 36 countries including Bhutan, Vanuatu and Germany. The Fair Break Invitational is a women’s T20 cricket tournament which will be played in Dubai and contested by six teams featuring world-renowned players. The team hear from the man behind the tournament Shaun Martyn.
And we look back on the remarkable second test match between Pakistan and Australia which resulted in an incredible draw and congratulate England captain Joe Root who has scored his ninth century since the start of 2021.
Photo: Deandra Dottin of the West Indies celebrates after taking the wicket of Fran Jonas of New Zealand during the 2022 ICC Women's Cricket World Cup match between New Zealand and the West Indies. (Credit: Getty Images)
3/17/2022 • 33 minutes, 29 seconds
Shane Warne: 'A legend that will continue to grow'
A week on from when news first broke about Shane Warne’s sudden death Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma pay tribute to the 'King of Spin'.
He was known as cricket's greatest ever leg-spinner, arguably cricket's greatest bowler and surpassed only by Sir Donald Bradman as Australia's greatest cricketer. Shane Warne took 708 Test wickets, the second most of all time, in 145 matches across a stellar 15-year international career.
Keeping wicket to Warne from 1999 through to the end of his international career was Adam Gilchrist and he joins the team to share his memories of playing alongside him and gives us an insight into the player, man and friend he was.
Photo: Shane Warne of Australia celebrates his 700th test wicket after he bowled Andrew Strauss of England during day one of the fourth Ashes Test Match between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26, 2006. (Credit: Getty Images)
3/10/2022 • 39 minutes, 2 seconds
Shane Warne Special
A 2018 interview with Australia's legendary bowler Shane Warne, who has died from a suspected heart attack aged 52.
Australian legend Shane Warne takes a look back at his cricketing career, from taking 708 wickets in 145 Tests for Australia to bowling the most famous delivery of all time: the Ball of the Century.
Photo: Former Australia and Rajasthan Royals player Shane Warne poses for a photo in 2019. (Credit: Getty Images for Rajasthan Royals)
3/4/2022 • 37 minutes, 2 seconds
The growth of the Women's World Cup
As the Women’s World Cup gets underway Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell hear from the Chief Executive of the competition Andrea Nelson. She tells us about the challenges that this tournament has thrown her way, the increase in prize money, domestic women’s cricket in New Zealand and the legacy that she hopes will be left behind.
Plus, as Australia's men tour Pakistan for the first time since 1998, we preview the series and ask how much of a test this will be for both sides.
With the unprecedented new ruling that will allow teams to field backroom staff members as substitute fielders in the Women's World Cup we debate which players we would bring out of retirement and put back on the pitch.
Photo: Image: 2022 ICC Women's Cricket World Cup Captain's Media Opportunity at the Antigua Boat Sheds on February 25, 2022 in Christchurch, New Zealand. (Photo by Hannah Peters-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
3/3/2022 • 31 minutes, 35 seconds
Cricket is keeping me in Kyiv
Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell speak to the chief executive of the Ukraine Cricket Federation, Kobus Olivier, as Russia launches a major military assault on the country. Olivier has been working to secure Ukraine associate member status from the International Cricket Council, which he says could be just months away.
Plus the Stumped team also discuss the latest changes to the structure of India’s men’s Test cricket team, with Rohit Sharma named as Virat Kohli’s captaincy successor, and we continue our preview of the Women’s World Cup.
(Photo: Ukraine's biggest flag flies some 90 metres above the city as it has been installed on the eve of State Flag Day, which is marked on 23 August and the Independence Day on 24 August. Credit: Aleksandr Gusev/Getty Images)
2/24/2022 • 28 minutes, 37 seconds
Charu's IPL auction experience
After IPL auctioneer Hugh Edmeades collapsed on the first day of the IPL mega auction our very own Charu Sharma stepped in to take over. Charu tells Alison Mitchell and Jim Maxwell all about the experience. Plus we debate which teams came out on top, how the new franchises will fare and why some players weren't selected.
Australia World Cup and Ashes winner Alex Blackwell joins us to discuss her new book Fair Game which outlines the battles she faced on and off the cricket pitch as the first openly gay Australian female player.
And we hear the first part of our interview with Pakistan Women’s ODI captain Bismah Maroof. She tells us about returning to captain the national side for the Women’s World Cup after becoming a mother and the importance of being role models to young Pakistan women.
Image Left: Stumped presenter Charu Sharma during Bid and Hammer exhibition on January 15, 2008 in New Delhi, India. (Photo by Dijeshwar Singh/Hindustan Times via Getty Images)
Image Right: India's Ishan Kishan plays a shot during the warmup cricket match between India and England for the ICC men's Twenty20 World Cup at the ICC Cricket Academy Ground in Dubai on October 18, 2021. (Photo by Aamir QURESHI / AFP) (Photo by AAMIR QURESHI/AFP via Getty Images)
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2/17/2022 • 34 minutes, 6 seconds
Langer's exit: What next for Australian cricket?
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss the resignation of Australia Men’s Head Coach Justin Langer. They look at his legacy and the power play between himself and his players.
Plus this week they are joined by John Buchanan, the former Australia coach from 1999 to 2007 who lead the side to multiple World Cup and Ashes wins. He also coached Justin Langer during this time and shares his experiences of him as a player and who his front-runners are for the vacancy.
England have chosen to drop both Stuart Broad and James Anderson from their tour to the West Indies and with the team also looking for a new head coach we ask whether we are entering a new era for English cricket?
Photo: Justin Langer Head Coach of Australia watches on during an Australian Ashes squad nets session at Blundstone Arena on January 12, 2022 in Hobart, Australia. (Photo by Steve Bell/Getty Images)
2/10/2022 • 30 minutes, 44 seconds
Unmukt Chand: Breaking the BBL barrier
On this week’s BBC Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell. We speak to the Unmukt Chand, the cricketer once touted as the next Virat Kohli, about leaving his homeland in search of better opportunities and becoming the first Indian man to play in the Big Bash League in Australia. BCCI rules state any Indian player, contracted or non-contracted is not allowed to play any franchise cricket outside of India.
Chand won the Under 19’s World Cup with India in 2012, but now ten years on is living in the USA and recently made his debut for the Melbourne Renegades.
Plus the fallout continues from England’s 4-0 thrashing by Australia in the Men’s Ashes. We discuss the news that Ashley Giles is leaving his role as England's managing director of men's cricket.
We also debate whether there should be more Test matches in the women’s game following the thrilling draw between England and Australia.
JANUARY 19: Unmukt Chand of the Renegades bats during the Men's Big Bash League match between the Sydney Thunder and the Melbourne Renegades at Melbourne Cricket Ground, on January 19, 2022, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Jonathan Di Maggio/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)
2/3/2022 • 34 minutes, 6 seconds
The Women's Ashes and cricket's highest catch
On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell & Charu Sharma, we take a look at the state of play in the Women’s Ashes so far, debate the maiden use of DRS in the competition and ask if the format works.
As the ICC name their cricketing achievements of the year, we celebrate Pakistan cricket after they picked up four awards.
We are joined by a Guinness World Record holder who has successfully achieved the highest catch of a cricket ball ever. Plus after an autograph book was found in Somerset containing signatures from the ‘golden age’ of cricket, we share our autograph stories.
Photo: Rachael Haynes of Australia is congratulated by Meg Lanning after reaching her half century during day one of the Women's Ashes Test match. (Credit: Getty Images)
1/27/2022 • 29 minutes, 10 seconds
'King Kohli' - India's Test captain resigns
Virat Kohli has been Test captain of India for seven years but this week announced that he would be resigning his position. Charu Sharma, Jim Maxwell and Nikesh Rughani are joined by the former India Test Cricketer and current National Selector and President of the Indian Cricketers Association Ashok Malhotra. He tells us whether he thinks Kohli 'jumped before he was pushed' and his prediction for who will fill his shoes.
Plus, from one outgoing captain to potentially another. The current England men’s captain Joe Root says he wants to stay on, but we debate whether this really is the best choice after a 4-0 thrashing by Australia in the Men's Ashes.
Photo: India captain Virat Kohli during the post match presentations after winning the Fourth LV= Insurance Test Match between England and India at The Kia Oval on September 06, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
1/20/2022 • 32 minutes, 4 seconds
The drama of Test cricket
On this week’s BBC Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell:
We discuss the drama of Test cricket after England salvaged some pride with a draw on the final day of the fourth Ashes Test, Virat Kohli impresses on his return for India against South Africa and we discuss Tom Latham’s knock of 252 for New Zealand.
Plus we speak to the Australian school boy who after finding himself bored of his card games during lockdown, decided to invent his own-focused on his biggest passion, cricket.
It’s been a difficult few years for Ollie Hely and his family after their mum lost her battle with cancer in 2020. Ollie has chosen to give 50% of any profits from the cards to charity.
Photo: Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad of England walk off after the match ended in a draw on day five of the Fourth Test Match in the Ashes series between Australia and England at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 09, 2022 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
1/13/2022 • 30 minutes, 59 seconds
Bangladesh's Test match dream
On this Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell, we look back as Bangladesh shocked the cricket world beating the reigning World Test champions, New Zealand by eight wickets in the opening Test at Mount Maunganui. Former Bangladesh player Shahriar Nafees joins us to explain the significance of the victory - their first against the Black Caps in any form of the game.
As England's struggles continue in the fourth Test at the SCG, we discuss the current coaching set up, and if any changes will be made, plus we discuss a dream return to Test cricket for Usman Khawaja as he hit 137 in the fourth Test against England, and we debate what the future holds for India bowler Shardul Thakur after his star performance against South Africa in the second Test.
And we go from one Ashes to another, we head to Iceland to find out about the Volcanic Ashes cricket tournament and the nation’s bid to gain international status with the ICC.
Credit: Bangladesh celebrate against New Zealand during day five of the first Test Match in the series between New Zealand and Bangladesh at Bay Oval on January 05, 2022 (Photo: Getty Images)
1/6/2022 • 34 minutes, 1 second
Is this the start of a golden era for Australian cricket?
Isabelle Westbury, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss Australia winning the Men's Ashes in just twelve days and look at whether this is the start of a golden era for the country in both red and white ball cricket. They also ask who is to blame for England's defeat and how they can improve.
Charu Sharma has been watching the first Test match between South Africa and India and tells us who his stand out players have been, why India seem unable to convert starts to big scores and whether he thinks Test captain Virat Kohli will retire soon.
Plus the team are joined by England bowler Kate Cross to preview the Women's Ashes, tell us how their preparation has been impacted by Covid-19 and the excitement building within the camp.
Photo: Australia's captain Pat Cummins (C) leads his team on a lap of the ground after Australia won the match and retained the Ashes during the third day of the third Ashes cricket Test match in Melbourne on December 28, 2021. (Credit: HAMISH BLAIR/AFP via Getty Images)
12/30/2021 • 36 minutes, 27 seconds
The best of Stumped in 2021
Alison Mitchell brings you the best of Stumped in 2021.
The show features an interview with the former West Indies cricketer and commentator Michael Holding on his book which documents the racism he has suffered and seen throughout his life.
Plus you can hear a classic Stumped debate on the term 'outs' instead of 'wickets' and hear from the first woman to be made President of the Marylebone Cricket Club, Clare Connor.
Photo: Commentator Michael Holding before the second day of the third test between England and India at Headingley on August 26, 2021 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
12/23/2021 • 33 minutes, 56 seconds
Steve Smith’s second chance after Cummins Covid chaos
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta discuss the chaotic start to the second men's Ashes test including Australia's captain Pat Cummins being forced to miss the match due to being deemed a close contact of a Covid-19 case. We reflect on the warm welcome Steve Smith received as he stepped up again to lead Australia, and if it was the right decision by England not to select Mark Wood or a spinner.
Plus we're joined by the captain of Team USA, Monank Patel ahead of their historic upcoming series against Ireland who will become the first full member nation to tour the US. Patel discusses what impact being chosen to co-host the men's T20 World Cup in 2024 will have on the growth of the game in the United States.
Photo: England's Jos Buttler during the first day of the second test match at the Adelaide Oval. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)
12/16/2021 • 30 minutes, 23 seconds
England's Ashes misery and the rise of captain Cummins
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss Pat Cummins' first match as captain of the Australian Test side in the Ashes, the omission of both Stuart Broad and James Anderson for the first Test match and if technology should be better at spotting no-balls.
Plus what’s the future of cricket’s coin toss? After two thirds of the T20 Men’s World Cup matches were won by the team that won the toss we are joined by Professor Haris Aziz who has come up with a new theory which he says would make the coin toss fairer.
Photo: Australian captain Pat Cummins celebrates with team-mates after dismissing England's Chris Woakes during the First Ashes Test Match at The Gabba. (Credit: Chris Hyde/Getty Images)
12/9/2021 • 34 minutes, 54 seconds
Ramiz Raja on the future of Pakistan cricket
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by the Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, Ramiz Raja to discuss their run in the men’s T20 World Cup. He tells us that he spoke to captain Babar Azam about how to get India player Rohit Sharma out and what more needs to be done to ensure they win a final soon. Plus he shares his hopes for a women’s Pakistan Super League and how the decision by England and New Zealand to call off their tours made them feel 'used and binned'.
Plus we look ahead to the men’s Ashes series, debate team selection and give our series predictions.
Photo: Newly-elected Pakistan's Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and former team captain Ramiz Raja smiles after addressing a press conference at the cricket academy in Lahore on September 13, 2021. (Photo by Arif ALI / AFP) (Photo by ARIF ALI/AFP via Getty Images)
12/2/2021 • 33 minutes, 11 seconds
Tim Paine and Australia's cricketing crisis
With less than two weeks to go until the men’s Ashes begins Alison Mitchell, Geoff Lemon and Charu Sharma react to Tim Paine stepping down as Australia captain, how it was handled and what this means for the team going forward.
Plus we are joined by South Africa all-rounder Marizanne Kapp who will be playing in the final of the WBBL with Perth Scorchers. She shares her experience of joining the Scorchers after six years with the Sydney Sixers, tells us how her experience of winning the inaugural Hundred competition will help her in the final, how the competitions compare and shares her thoughts on former South Africa captain AB de Villiers decision to retire.
Photo: Tim Paine looking solemn (Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)
11/25/2021 • 36 minutes, 6 seconds
T20 World Cup: What makes a winner?
On this week’s Stumped, Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell react to Australia winning the Men’s T20 World Cup and present the Stumped T20 awards for the best player, stand out moment, biggest surprise, and biggest disappointment of the tournament.
Plus, former cricketer turned sports psychologist, Jeremy Snape, joins the team to discuss what it takes mentally to be a winner and tells us about the different mindsets needed from a World Cup Final to a match with a fierce rivalry - like the Ashes.
Additional note: This week's Stumped was recorded before Tim Paine announced his decision to step down as Australia Test captain.
Photo: Australia captain Aaron Finch lifts the ICC World T20 Trophy with teammates after defeating New Zealand in the final in the UAE. (Credit: Getty Images)
11/18/2021 • 37 minutes, 37 seconds
Azeem Rafiq: How can complaints of racism be handled better?
On this week's Stumped, Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell examine the fallout from the racism scandal which has engulfed Yorkshire County Cricket Club and the sport over the last few weeks.
The team speak with John Mehrzad QC, who has been involved in conducting independent reviews in sport, to find out what is best practice when it comes to dealing with complaints of racism or harassment in sports organisations. Mehrzad was the only lawyer on the cultural review of British Cycling, chaired the governance review of the British Equestrian Federation and chaired the review into UK Athletics’ handling of allegations concerning athletics coach Alberto Salazar.
Plus we’re also joined by Derbyshire player Anuj Dal, who is Vice Chair of the Professional Cricketers Association and part of their Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Group. He discusses how the PCA is working with players at all levels to educate them about racism and inclusivity and how the union supports its member when allegations are made.
Photo: Former Yorkshire cricketer Azeem Rafiq poses for a portrait during the Yorkshire CCC Media Day at Headingley in 2018. (Credit: Getty Images)
11/11/2021 • 33 minutes, 50 seconds
The T20 World Cup debate
Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell debate where it has gone wrong for India in the men’s T20 World Cup, if South Africa are peaking at the right time and whether England or Pakistan are the tournament favourites.
Plus we are joined by the General Manager of the Big Bash Leagues in Australia, Alistair Dobson. He tells us how Covid has impacted the WBBL, the significance of having Indian players in the competition and how preparations are going for the men’s Big Bash League beginning next month.
We also speak to Will Gaffney who set up the Bat For A Chance foundation which helps underprivileged children from around the world enjoy cricket.
Photo: Credit: India captain Virat Kohli cuts a dejected figure following his side's 10 wicket defeat against Pakistan during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. (Image: ICC via Getty Images)
11/4/2021 • 37 minutes, 54 seconds
Afghanistan's T20 World Cup: ‘It’s more than cricket’
We are joined by England Ashes winning coach Andy Flower who is now Afghanistan consultant for the Men’s T20 World Cup. He tells us about the pride that the Afghanistan players have to play for their country and his reason for wanting to be involved with the team. He also tells us his hopes to coach an IPL team in the future and gives his predictions on how the men's Ashes will play out with Ben Stokes back in contention.
Plus Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell discuss the main talking points from the Men's T20 World Cup so far including how India will recover from losing to Pakistan and South Africa's Quinton de Kock choosing not take a knee in their opening match against the West Indies.
Photo: Andy Flower, Coach of Afghanistan looks on ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup match between Afghanistan and Scotland at Sharjah Cricket Stadium on October 25, 2021 in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Michael Steele-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
10/28/2021 • 37 minutes, 8 seconds
India's next coach?
On this week’s episode, Alison Mitchell, Sunil Gupta and Jim Maxwell react to the speculation that Indian legend Rahul Dravid looks set to replace Ravi Shastri as head coach of the national team after the T20 World Cup and discuss what Shastri’s legacy will be.
Plus in the wake of comments made by India all-rounder Hardik Pandya about how money is extremely important for pushing a player to succeed in professional cricket, the team discuss the role of money as motivation.
With the Men’s T20 World Cup up and running we go behind the scenes in the Irish camp and speak to Shane Getkate. He is a reserve in the team and will tell us about the mood in the side and also his comeback story from cardiac arrest to playing for Ireland.
Finally, in 1994, a well-known chocolate brand created an advert in India which would become iconic - it saw a woman sat on the side-lines of a cricket match watching her male friend score a winning boundary and then running onto the field and dancing with delight. But fast forward to 2021 and the advert has been reimagined by swapping the gender roles and ending with the powerful message of #GoodLuckGirls as a tribute to women athletes. We speak to one of the stars of the new advert, Kavya Ramachandran.
Photo: India A coach Rahul Dravid during a tour match between ECB XI v India A at Headingley on June 17, 2018. (Image: Getty Images)
10/21/2021 • 35 minutes, 24 seconds
Hosting the ICC T20 World Cup 'is a dream come true'
We discuss the finale of the Indian Premier League and after Virat Kohli played his last game as captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore, the team look at how his tenure as captain will be remembered.
We speak to the Chairman of Oman Cricket, Pankaj Khimji who tells us how he feels about hosting the T20 World Cup, how the country has prepared and his predictions on how far his team can go.
And as part of Black History Month in the UK, we hear how the African Caribbean Engagement programme (ACE) is aiming get more British black people playing cricket and improve the number of black professional cricket players in the UK, which has declined by 75% in the last 25 years, and is at less than 1% at recreational level.
(Photo: Khawar Aliof Oman is congratulated after taking the wicket of Namibia’s Zane Green during a ICC Men’s T20 World Cup warm up match between Oman and Namibia. Credit: ICC/Getty Images)
10/14/2021 • 34 minutes, 13 seconds
Kagiso Rabada: The IPL, bio-bubbles & being a South African role model
South Africa and Delhi Capitals’ fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has told BBC Stumped that ‘bio-bubbles aren’t sustainable’ in world cricket and something must change.
Rabada, who made his IPL debut four years ago as a 22-year-old, has risen to become one of the most successful bowlers in world cricket and a role model for young South Africans. He joined Alison Mitchell, Sunil Gupta and Jim Maxwell to discuss his development as a player, what it’s like to be coached by Ricky Pointing and his hopes of lifting the Indian Premier League trophy with Delhi Capitals, after losing last year’s Final.
Also on Stumped, we discuss another week of speculation around the future of the Ashes, what will happen next and we hear from West Indies legend Michael Holding who claims England showed "Western arrogance" by cancelling their tour of Pakistan.
Photo credit: Kagiso Rabada of South Africa walks off for lunch after he took the wicket of Jonny Bairstow of England during day three of the 4th Test at Supersport Park on January 24, 2016 in Centurion, South Africa. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
10/7/2021 • 35 minutes, 9 seconds
MCC's first female president on breaking barriers and the Pakistan decision
Alison Mitchell, Sunil Gupta and Jim Maxwell speak with incoming Marylebone Cricket Club president Clare Connor about becoming the first woman to take up the role in the 233-year history of the club. She discusses her hopes of using her one-year term to modernise the club to ensure better gender parity. Connor also remains the managing director of women’s cricket at the ECB, and discusses the “unbelievably disappointing” cancellation of England joint men’s & women’s tour of Pakistan which she says was “absolutely the right decision at that time”.
The team also hear from one of the busiest women in cricket - Emily Windsor - who juggles a full time job working for the National Health Service in the UK, cricket commentary for the BBC and playing for the Southern Vipers in the South of England. Last week she was named player of the match in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint trophy final and reflects on the Vipers win.
And we reflect on England all-rounder Moeen Ali’s decision to retire from red-ball cricket, and in the aftermath of India women ending Australia’s 26-match unbeaten ODI run, the team analyse whether the time is right for a women’s IPL-style tournament in the country.
(Photo: Former England women's cricketer Claire Connor rings the five-minute bell ahead of day four of the 2nd Ashes Test match between England and Australia at Lord's Cricket Ground. Credit: Getty Images)
9/30/2021 • 37 minutes, 5 seconds
England's Pakistan tour: The fallout
We discuss the fallout from England withdrawing their men and women from their October tour to Pakistan and what consequences it could have for international cricket.
We talk about Virat Kohli's decision to step down as Captain of India's T20 side and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League.
We also hear why boycotting Afghanistan cricket might not be the best option for women's cricket in the country in the second part of our interview with Tuba Sangar, the former women's development manager at the Afghanistan Cricket Board.
Plus we’re joined by cricket historian and blogger Bill Ricquier to discuss his England men’s all-time greatest XI, as featured in his new book, The Immortals of English Cricket.
Photo credit: Newly-elected Pakistan's Cricket Board (PCB) chairman and former team captain Ramiz Raja speaks during a press conference at the cricket academy in Lahore on September 13, 2021. (Photo by Arif ALI / AFP) (Photo by ARIF ALI/AFP via Getty Images)
9/23/2021 • 39 minutes, 22 seconds
“I’m worried about their security & family life”
On this week’s episode, Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell hear from Tuba Sangar, who up until just a couple of weeks ago was the women's development manager for the Afghanistan Cricket Board. She tells the team about her fears for the safety of her players, the future of women’s cricket in Afghanistan, and what it was like leaving her home and her job behind.
They also speak with Punjab Kings and Australia bowler Nathan Ellis, whose remarkable two-year journey from playing club cricket continues with the chance to play in the Indian Premier League, which resumes in the UAE, and discuss the fall-out from the fifth Test between England and India. The match was called off just two hours before the scheduled start of play due to Covid concerns in the India camp.
Photo: Members of Afghanistan's first national women's cricket team take part in a training session in Kabul. (Credit: SHAH MARAI/AFP via Getty Images)
9/16/2021 • 43 minutes, 49 seconds
The future of Afghanistan cricket, England v India and the Disability Premier League
We discuss the latest on what the future might hold for cricket in Afghanistan after speculation over whether the women's team will be able to play under the new government.
We also find out how some refugees from the country are being made to feel welcome in the UK thanks to a cricket match organised by Newport Pagnell Town Cricket Club.
Plus we reflect on the Test series between England and India, and discuss MS Dhoni's role as a mentor for the India T20 World Cup squad.
And we learn more about the Disability Premier League in England, which is currently being trialled and is described as a "world first" with players from three different impairment groups playing together for the first time.
Photo description: Afghan girls play cricket on the school grounds in Kabul on December 28, 2010. (Photo credit: SHAH MARAI/AFP via Getty Images)
9/9/2021 • 39 minutes, 12 seconds
Will a microchipped cricket ball revolutionise bowling?
Isabelle Westbury, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma hear from former Australia bowler Michael Kasprowicz who has been involved in developing the SmartBall, which measures speed, spin and power and is currently being trialled in the Caribbean Premier League. We ask what the players make of it so far and when we could see it being used more widely across international competitions.
We find out more about Brazil's ambitions to qualify for the Women's T20 World Cup in 2023 with their captain Roberta Moretti Avery.
Plus we remember Dale Steyn’s greatest moments as the South African announces his retirement from cricket and discuss the pressure on India’s Virat Kohli both with the bat and his captaincy as the Test series against England continues.
PHOTO: Australian fast bowler Michael Kasprowicz, shows the match ball to spectators after taking five wickets, on day two of the first of three Tests against Pakistan at the WACA ground in Perth, 17 December 2004. (Credit: GREG WOOD/AFP via Getty Images)
9/2/2021 • 40 minutes, 52 seconds
The future of The Hundred and the origins of the Pataudi Trophy
We're joined by the head of The Hundred women's competition, Beth Barrett-Wild to discuss its success and what's next for the tournament.
With all eyes on the third Test between England and India, we find out more about the Pataudi trophy they're competing for, named after one of the biggest stars in the history of Indian cricket.
And we look at the latest situation for Afghanistan's cricketers.
PHOTO: The Oval Invincibles celebrate victory with the trophy after The Hundred Final match between Southern Brave Women and Oval Invincibles Women at Lord's Cricket Ground on August 21, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Getty Images)
8/26/2021 • 38 minutes, 46 seconds
Afghanistan: 'We will rise again'
Afghanistan bowler Naveen-ul-Haq discusses the ongoing political situation in his home country, what the future holds for the national team and whether they will compete at the Twenty20 World Cup in October.
We hear how the Afghan Cricket Association, which normally supports players in the UK, has redirected its efforts to providing emergency aid.
Plus, we reflect on India’s win over England in the second Test, discuss the T20 World Cup draw and look ahead to the final Test between West Indies and Pakistan, after a thrilling first victory for the home side.
Photo: Captain Naveen Ul Haq of Afghanistan and his team mates line up for their national anthem prior to the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup match between New Zealand and Afghanistan at Hagley Oval on January 25, 2018 in Christchurch, New Zealand
Credit: Getty Images
8/19/2021 • 44 minutes, 29 seconds
Olympic cricket and a congested calendar
Ian Watmore, ECB Chair and head of the International Cricket Council's Olympic working group, joins us to talk about the bid for the sport to be included at Los Angeles 2028 and the beginning of the Hundred.
Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell discuss the injuries affecting England's bowling options heading into the second Test against India
And we'll hear how the inaugural British Gorkhali League is promoting cricket amongst British Nepalese players.
Photo: The torch is lit at the Los Angeles Coliseum as the city was officially named as host of the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Credit: Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images)
8/12/2021 • 38 minutes, 29 seconds
Daniel Vettori on mental health, The Hundred and his dream job
We speak to former New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori about his coaching career, including his current role in The Hundred, and about mental health in cricket following Ben Stokes' announcement that he's taking an 'indefinite' break from the sport.
Plus, we hear from the women's team in Barcelona which has run a successful campaign to create the city's first cricket pitch.
PHOTO: Spin Bowling Coach Daniel Vettori takes part in warm ups during game one of the International T20 series between New Zealand and Bangladesh at Seddon Park on March 28, 2021 in Hamilton, New Zealand. (Credit: Getty Images)
8/5/2021 • 36 minutes, 14 seconds
'I want to break the 80mph bowling record'
We speak to South Africa's all time leading wicket taker and one of the fastest female bowlers in world, Shabnim Ismail, as we discuss whether the 80 miles per hour women's bowling record could be broken soon.
Plus, we'll look at the concerns over this winter's Ashes, and India's injury list ahead of the Test series with England.
Photo: Shabnim Ismail of South Africa bowls during the ICC Women's T20 Cricket World Cup match between South Africa and Pakistan at Sydney Showgrounds (Credit:Getty Images)
7/29/2021 • 37 minutes, 26 seconds
'It's the best game I've ever played in'
On this week’s Stumped, Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell are joined by Oval Invincibles and England T20 bowler Tash Farrant. Farrant featured in the inaugural match of The Hundred, as the competition finally got underway a year later than originally planned. We discuss the new format, how well it worked and how it's helping towards gender equality in the sport.
And we hear from the 11-year-old boy who's been given a new lease of cricketing life - all thanks to a special set of glasses.
Photo: Tash Farrant of Oval Invincibles bowls during the The Hundred match between Oval Invincibles and Manchester Originals. (Credit:Getty Images)
7/22/2021 • 37 minutes, 41 seconds
Michael Holding on racism, social media abuse and consequences
On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma, West Indies great Michael Holding discusses his powerful speech about racial injustice which went viral last year.
He speaks about his own experiences of racism, reacts to the social media abuse aimed at some of England’s footballers at the European Championships this week and discusses his new book 'Why We Kneel, How We Rise,' and whether it’s easier now for sports men and women to use their platform for change.
And with less than a week to go to the start of The Hundred, we discuss the implications of recent positive covid cases and look back at the India v England’s women multi-format series.
Photo: Former West Indies Cricketer Michael Holding shakes hands with West Indies captain Jason Holder. (Credit: ICC via Getty Images)
7/15/2021 • 37 minutes, 24 seconds
'Long Covid nearly ended my career'
On this week's Stumped, Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell discuss the fallout after the entire England ODI squad was forced into quarantine after a number of players and staff tested positive. An entire new playing and coaching team was named just days before their one-day series against Pakistan.
We also hear from the Northern Diamonds and Yorkshire bowler Katie Levick, who shares her first-hand experience of dealing with the consequences of suspected long Covid. She was left unable to walk down a flight of stairs without a having to take a break and feared the illness would end her career.
And we hear the second part of a wide-ranging interview with Australia all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner. She discusses her aboriginal heritage and how the Australian Women have embraced learning more about the indigenous culture.
Photo: Katie Levick of Northern Diamonds bowls during the Rachel Heyhoe Flint Trophy match between Northern Diamonds and Loughborough Lightning. (Credit: MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
7/8/2021 • 35 minutes, 42 seconds
When will Pakistan next host the Cricket World Cup?
On this week's Stumped, we'll speak to the Chief Executive of the Pakistan Cricket Board Wasim Khan who outlines Pakistan's hopes of co-hosting the cricket World Cup in 2027 and 2031.
We'll also discuss the T20 World Cup being moved from India to the UAE.
And we'll hear from Australia All rounder Ashleigh Gardner who's looking forward to the much anticipated one off Test Match against India, taking place at the Waca later this year.
Photo: Pakistan Cricket Board CEO Wasim Khan addresses the media. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)
7/1/2021 • 35 minutes, 33 seconds
Sri Lankan cricket has to ‘change’
On this week's Stumped we hear from former Sri Lanka cricket captain Kumar Sangakkara who says since winning the World Cup in 1996, their players been held back by administrative upheaval and archaic systems where everyone is extremely resistant to change.
Sangakarra who was this month inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, believes his country have now been surpassed by other cricketing nations and now is the ‘time to draw a line and say it’s enough’.
Plus we debate the pros and cons of the format of the World Test Championship final and celebrate New Zealand becoming the inaugural winners.
And we ask the question whether women's test matches should be extended to five days?
Photo: Sri Lanka batsman Kumar Sangakkara raises his bat after scoring a century at the Bellerive Oval ground during the 2015 Cricket World Cup Pool A match between Scotland and Sri Lanka in Hobart on March 11, 2015. (Credit: INDRANIL MUKHERJEE/AFP via Getty Images)
6/24/2021 • 35 minutes, 22 seconds
Should soft signals be scrapped?
Stuart Broad has urged the ICC to review the use of soft signals after New Zealand opener Devon Conway controversially survived a claimed catch by Zak Crawley. This follows comments from India Captain Virat Kohli on DRS where he says 'umpire's call creates a lot of confusion'. The Stumped team debate whether there is still a need in the game for soft signals or whether umpires should rely solely on technology.
Plus India and England are playing in a Test Match against each other for the first time since 2014 but the wicket has caused controversy. It is being placed on a used wicket after Gloucestershire played a T20 match on it last week. We ask whether this is a step back in the women's game.
And we hear the second part of our interview with Cricket Australia Chief Executive Nick Hockley. He speaks about sandpaper gate, parity in the women’s game and cricket being on free to air TV.
Photo: England bowlers Stuart Broad (R) and James Anderson (C) inspect the ball with umpire on the third day of the second Test cricket match between England and New Zealand. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)
6/17/2021 • 39 minutes, 34 seconds
English cricket's social media row: What's next?
We discuss the latest developments following the suspension of England bowler Ollie Robinson and ask how diverse is English cricket?
We’ll hear from the now permanent CEO of Cricket Australia Nick Hockley. He tells us more about whether English fans will be likely to attend the Ashes in Australia, whether Australian players will be playing in the IPL and their selection for The Hundred.
And we hear from Australia Women’s World Cup winner Megan Schutt on reciprocal IVF after announcing that her wife is pregnant.
Photo: The England team line up in their Anti-Discrimination T-Shirts during the 'Moment of Unity' before day one of the second Test Match between England and New Zealand at Edgbaston. (Credit: Getty Images)
6/10/2021 • 37 minutes, 22 seconds
Mental health: The relationship between the media and elite sport stars
We consider the fallout from the controversial historic tweets sent by England's Ollie Robinson when the bowler was much younger.
Plus following tennis player's Naomi Osaka's withdrawal from the French Open, we discuss mental health and the relationship between the media and elite sports.
And we hear from England women's wicket-keeper Amy Jones on how the team are preparing for their upcoming series against India.
Photo: David Warner of Australia laughs as a camera man fall over during the victory lap for the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup final match between Australia and New Zealand at Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 29, 2015 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)
6/3/2021 • 37 minutes, 32 seconds
India’s Cricketing Jem
On this week’s episode, Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell speak at length to one of the brightest stars of women's cricket - the India and Mumbai all-rounder Jemimah Rodrigues. Plus, we'll hear from the former England all-rounder Arran Brindle and her 12-year-old son Harry who have made history this week by becoming the first mother and son to score a century partnership in a men's club match.
Photo: Jemimah Rodrigues of India leaves the field after being dismissed during the ICC Women's T20 Cricket World Cup. (Credit: Getty Images)
5/27/2021 • 28 minutes, 1 second
Will Sandpaper Gate ever be forgotten?
Sandpaper Gate has again become the talk of the cricketing world since fresh revelations by Australian batsman Cameron Bancroft. Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss if it will ever be forgotten?
Plus we hear from 21 year old New Zealand cricketer Rachin Ravindra. He discusses the prospect of making his international debut, his Indian heritage and the support of his family.
And the team are joined by author Rob Eastaway who has decided to channel the royalties from his latest book into a UK fund to invest in friendly cricket for adults.
Photo: This video grab taken from a footage released by AFP TV shows Australia's captain Steve Smith (R), flankled by teammate Cameron Bancroft, speaking during a press conference in Cape Town, on March 24, 2018 as he admitted to ball-tampering during the third Test against South Africa. (Credit: STR/AFP TV/AFP via Getty Images)
5/20/2021 • 40 minutes, 55 seconds
Bamboo bats, Irish women's cricket and BJ Watling's retirement
Are bamboo bats the future of cricket? We hear from former Thailand Under 19’s player, Doctor Darshil Shah who has co-authored some research outlining the benefits of using bamboo instead of willow.
Plus we are joined by Ireland captain Laura Delany who looks ahead to their upcoming series against Scotland after 18 months without an international match.
The team also discuss the India squad announcement ahead of their upcoming tour of England, BJ Watling's retirement and Pakistan's new parental support policy for players.
Photo: Laura Delany of Typhoons plays a shot watched by Shauna Kavanagh of Scorchers during the Women's Super Series match between Scorchers and Typhoons at Malahide Cricket Club in Dublin. (Photo By Sam Barnes/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
5/13/2021 • 37 minutes, 32 seconds
'Corruptors are getting more sophisticated'
On this week's Stumped podcast Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss the suspension of the IPL. They ask whether the decision has to come too later and debate what will happen next for cricket in India.
Plus the team are joined by Alex Marshall, the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit General Manager. He tells us what they do to tackle corruption and how convicted cricketers are helped following a ban.
We hear from Scottish cricketer Abtaha Maqsood on Ramadan, wearing a Hijab and preparing to play for the Birmingham Phoenix in the Hundred.
Photo: A cricket ball is caught in a pair of wicket keeping gloves with a fan of Australian fifty dollar notes (Credit: Getty images)
5/6/2021 • 30 minutes, 7 seconds
IPL 2021: 'In Covid times, it's a Catch-22'
Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Alister Nicholson are joined by the General Manager of cricket operations at the BCCI, Dhiraj Malhotra. He gives us the latest on where the IPL stands and whether the competition should be halted or is a welcomed distraction.
The team also hear from former Rajasthan Royals and Australia bowler AJ Tye, who tells the team why he felt it necessary to leave the IPL midway through the tournament and how bubble life left him feeling as though he had lost touch with the outside world.
Plus the domestic cricket season in the Netherlands is about to get underway and we go behind the scenes to see how teams are preparing for the new season and how Covid-19 has had an impact.
Photo: Chennai Super Kings captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni and his teammates arrive at the airport (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)
4/29/2021 • 37 minutes, 48 seconds
Will cricket's bio bubble burst?
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by the number one ranked T20 player in the World Dawid Malan. He discusses his first season in the Indian Premier League after he was chosen by the Punjab Kings, what life is like in the many bio-bubbles that he has experienced and if the IPL is different to what he expected.
Plus they discuss the process of team selection after England abolished the role of chief selector which they have been using for over 100 years.
Photo: Dawid Malan of England poses for a photo with his Player of the Match and Player of the Series awards at the end of the 3rd Twenty20 International between South Africa and England at Newlands Cricket Ground on December 01, 2020 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
4/22/2021 • 34 minutes, 56 seconds
'Outs' instead of 'wickets'
On this week's Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta we discuss how plans are in place to overhaul some of the game's most historic terminology.
We speak to the CEO of Warwickshire Cricket Club Stuart Cain on the possibility of staging an exhibition weekend where teams from the Indian Premier League, Pakistan Super League and Caribbean Super League play the Birmingham Bears. He also tells us about a new app designed to allow the safe return of fans.
And the editor of Wisden Cricketers Almanack Lawrence Booth joins us to reveal the cricketer's of the year and how they put the book together in this very tough year.
Photo: Players for the eight teams in The Hundred line up following The Hundred Draft, broadcast live from Sky Studios on October 20, 2019 in Isleworth, England. (Photo by Christopher Lee/Getty Images for ECB)
4/15/2021 • 37 minutes, 33 seconds
Meet the 'batman' of cricket
On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma we speak to the England physical disability cricketer Liam O'Brien who has swapped playing cricket games for computer games. Plus he also speaks to us about raising awareness of disability cricket and how he leads a double life selling golfing holidays during the day whilst being an England cricketer on an evening.
The team are also joined by Ex-England wicket-keeper Sarah Taylor who has just signed for the Welsh Fire in the Hundred. She also tells us about her battle with anxiety, her coaching role at Sussex and ultimately wanting to be a wicket-keeping coach travelling around the world.
And should substitutes be allowed in cricket?
Photo: Liam O'Brien of England raises his bat after he scores 53 not out during the Physical Disability World Series 2019 semi final match between England and Afghanistan on August 13, 2019 in Worcester, England. (Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images for ECB)
4/8/2021 • 38 minutes, 11 seconds
IPL preview, cricket siblings & freak injuries
On this week's show Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma reflect on England's tour of India and look at what lessons can be learned from both sides.
Plus we preview the upcoming IPL and hear from England's director of cricket Ashley Giles, on how some of the players may miss their upcoming Test series against New Zealand due to scheduling.
Does having an older sibling benefit you in cricket? We hear from the co-author of a new book Tim Wigmore. on how statistically younger siblings outperform their older siblings in 2 out of 3 cases.
And we discuss bizarre cricketing injuries.
Photo: Brothers Sam and Tom Curran ahead of the 5th One Day International match between Sri Lanka and England at R. Premadasa Stadium on October 23, 2018 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
4/1/2021 • 42 minutes, 52 seconds
Can Kapil Dev’s stardust lift Indian golf?
On this week’s episode, Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell speak to one of the greatest Indian cricketers of all time, Kapil Dev, about his new role on the board of the Professional Golf Tour of India, and his hopes for creating golf's version of T20 cricket. The team relive the fairytale story of Sri Lanka's win at the Cricket World Cup, 25 years on. And in honour of David "Bumble" Lloyd having a street named after him in his hometown, we talk about the streets and buildings in India and Australia, which have been named after legendary cricketers.
Photo: Former cricketer Kapil Dev in action during an interview about the upcoming film based on 1983 Cricket World Cup. (Credit: Hindustan Times via Getty Images)
3/25/2021 • 38 minutes, 27 seconds
Meet Afghanistan cricket's latest star
We speak to Hashmatullah Shahidi who became the first Afghanistan player to score a Test double century. He tells us how it felt, discusses the rise of Afghanistan cricket and praises his team mate and number one T20 bowler in the world Rashid Khan.
Plus cricket commentator Mark Nicholas reveals which milestone has been named the greatest ever moment to happen at Lord's.
And we hear from Australian cricket star Ellyse Perry who has signed for the Birmingham Phoenix and will take part in the inaugural Hundred competition.
Photo: Hashmatullah Shahidi of Afghanistan celebrates victory during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 Warm Up match between Pakistan and Afghanistan at Bristol County Ground on May 24, 2019 in Bristol, England. (Photo by Harry Trump-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
3/18/2021 • 40 minutes, 17 seconds
Haynes: Time to immortalise women’s cricket stars
We reflect on the India/England test match series, discuss the potential of England squad rotation during the Ashes and preview India against New Zealand in the Test Championship final.
Plus the team will be joined by Australia women’s Vice-Captain Rachael Haynes after Cricket Australia announced that they are going to be addressing gender imbalances in the game, including the lack of statues of female cricketers around the country. We also hear what she thinks of women’s Test Cricket versus the shorter format of the game.
Finally we will hear fromTemba Bavuma, who has become the first black African to permanently captain a South Africa side after being appointed their limited-overs skipper.
Photo: Rachael Haynes of Australia celebrates a century during game two of the International Women's One Day International Series between Australia and Sri Lanka at Allan Border Field on October 07, 2019 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)
3/11/2021 • 32 minutes, 58 seconds
England in a spin – Trescothick to the rescue
We speak to one of the best English batsmen against spin, Marcus Trescothick, on what England have been doing wrong against India. Plus he reacts to his appointment as England’s elite batting coach.”
And almost a year to the day since 86,000 people were at the MCG to watch Australia women win the T20 World Cup, we speak to Angela Pippos, the producer of a new Amazon Prime documentary ‘The Record’, which documents Australia’s rise to the top.
Photo: Marcus Trescothick of Somerset raises his bat after reaching his century during day one of the LV County Championship match between Northamptonshire and Somerset at The County Ground on May 8, 2007 in Northampton, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
3/4/2021 • 41 minutes, 11 seconds
'Catches win matches but tashes win Ashes'
We discuss the pitch, umpiring decisions and England's fragile batting line up in the third test match between India and England.
Plus the first game of this summer's inaugural Hundred competition will be a women's match, so we look at how the profile of women's cricket is being raised.
And Cricket the Musical! We are joined by writer and star of the show Denis Carnahan.
Photo: Dennis Lillee of Australia poses for a photo during the Beach Cricket Tri-Nations match. (Credit: Getty Images)
2/25/2021 • 36 minutes, 49 seconds
Heather Knight: Covid's exposed support for women's teams
On this week’s podcast, Alison Mitchell is joined by Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma to discuss the fallout from India’s victory over England in the second Test in Chennai. The team discuss the state of the surface - was it a poor pitch, or just poor batting by England? And what should we expect from the day-night third Test in Ahmedabad? We’ll also hear from England Women captain Heather Knight, as her world champions prepare to take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series - their first 50-over cricket in 14 months - and discuss why India Women haven't played for nearly a year. And we hear about how cricket is being played on ice in the Netherlands.
Photo: Heather Knight participates in a drill during an England touring side training session in Queenstown, New Zealand. (Credit: Getty Images)
2/18/2021 • 53 minutes, 5 seconds
Mayers on his dazzling debut
We reflect on one of England's finest test wins as they beat India in the first test in Chennai.
Plus we hear from the man who delivered one of the most amazing test debuts of all time. West Indies' Kyle Mayers tells us about scoring his match winning double century and how a hurricane in the Caribbean helped to forge his career.
Photo: Kyle Mayers celebrates after scoring a century (100 runs) during the fifth day of the first cricket Test match between Bangladesh and West Indies at the Zohur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chittagong on February 7, 2021. (Photo by MUNIR UZ ZAMAN/AFP via Getty Images)
2/11/2021 • 50 minutes, 39 seconds
India v England: The clash of the Test titans
The Stumped team preview one of the biggest clashes not just in cricket but in world sport as India face England on home soil. We hear from former India player Suresh Raina on where he thinks the key battles will be. Plus as Joe Root is set to play in his 100th test we hear from the man himself and ask whether he could ever surpass Sachin Tendulkar's tally of runs?
Plus with the news coming this week that Australia have pulled out of their tour of South Africa later this month because of coronavirus concerns, we speak to former South Africa all-rounder Robin Peterson on how this will impact cricket in the country.
(Photo: Joe Root of England shakes hands with Virat Kohli of India prior to Day One of the Specsavers 1st Test match between England and India at Edgbaston on August 1, 2018 in Birmingham, England. Credit: Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
2/4/2021 • 42 minutes, 23 seconds
Burns on batting and babies
England opener Rory Burns joins us from quarantine in Chennai ahead of next week's first Test against England. He'll tells us how life has changed since becoming a dad, the competition for places in the English batting line upafter they won their fifth successive Test away from home, and whether India are currently the best Test team in the world. We ask whether travelling sportsmen and women should get Covid vaccines ahead of others.Plus we speak to Himanshu Vaid who has designed and re-constructed the biggest cricket stadium in the world.
Photo: Rory Burns of England during a nets session at the Bay Oval on November 20, 2019 in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
1/28/2021 • 41 minutes, 2 seconds
India conquer fortress Gabbatoir
On this week’s episode Alison Mitchell is joined by Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell to look back on India’s final day heroics in the fourth Test match at the Gabba, and ask if the win was the finest ever Test match performance in the country’s history. The team also dissect possible captaincy conundrums for both India and Australia.
And we speak with England’s Dan Lawrence after he hit a maiden half-century on debut in Sri Lanka. The Essex batsman tells us about how practicing in the sub-continent helped his performance batting against spin, and his brother’s rather unusual sporting talent.
Image: India celebrates winning on day five of the fourth Test match between Australia and India at the Gabba in Brisbane, Australia (Credit: Reuters)
1/21/2021 • 45 minutes
Langer comes out swinging
Australia head coach Justin Langer launches a passionate defence of captain Tim Paine and batsman Steve Smith, but how far has their behaviour in the third Test against India, and the reaction to it undermined efforts to restore the reputation of Australian cricket?
Plus, a new book on the West Indian cricketer, lawyer and politician Learie Constantine, who played a pivotal role in improving race relations in the UK.
Photo: Justin Langer (Getty Images)
1/14/2021 • 45 minutes, 32 seconds
Brilliant Black Caps: New Zealand usurp the 'Big Three'
New Zealand batsman Henry Nicholls on their journey to the top of the world Test rankings ahead of bigger, richer cricket nations like India, Australia and England.
Reaction to an impressive debut for Australia opening batsman Will Pucovski in the third Test against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
And the Nepalese cricket club in Tasmania that finally have their own home ground.
Photo: Kane Williamson and Brendon McCullum (Getty Images)
1/7/2021 • 32 minutes, 51 seconds
India revel in comeback victory
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar gives his reaction to India's brilliant victory over Australia in Melbourne to level the series at 1-1 with two to play.
Plus, Scotland all-rounder Kathryn Bryce on her journey to being recognised as the women's associate player of the decade.
Photo: Ajinkya Rahane and Shubman Gill (Getty Images)
1/1/2021 • 45 minutes, 19 seconds
The best of Stumped in 2020
Alison Mitchell brings you the best of Stumped in 2020.
The show features an interview with the world's top fast bowler Pat Cummins and the unlikely secrets behind a leading umpire's success.
Plus, the rise of women's cricket in Germany and an emotional Ebony Rainford-Brent calls for greater racial equality in the sport.
Photo: (L) Australia Vice Captain Pat Cummins and (R) Former England player Ebony Rainford-Brent (Credit: Getty images)
12/26/2020 • 31 minutes, 58 seconds
Australia and India in thrilling Test battle
Alison Mitchell and Jim Maxwell are at the Adelaide Oval for reaction and debate as India and Australia go head-to-head in the opening Test, with Charu Sharma giving the Indian perspective.
Plus, England's all-time record run-scorer Sir Alastair Cook looks ahead to a massive year for England's Test team with tours of Sri Lanka, India and Australia.
Photo: Steve Smith (Getty Images)
12/18/2020 • 42 minutes, 53 seconds
Can India conquer Australia again?
Has Australia's batting crisis given India the advantage going into their eagerly-awaited Test series.
The remarkable story of the team of Filipino domestic helpers making big waves in the Hong Kong cricket leagues.
Plus, cricket supporters groups from around the world come together to fight for a bigger say in the future of the game.
Photo: Virat Kohli (Getty Images)
12/10/2020 • 48 minutes, 31 seconds
Thunder's glory and Jaffna's rise from the rubble
Sydney Thunder bowler Hannah Darlington on Big Bash glory, future Australia selection and barefoot circles.
Are England's coded messages from the dressing-room to the captain a vision of cricket's future or an underhand tactic that needs to be stamped out?
The northern city that bore the brunt of Sri Lanka's civil war sets out to discover its first international cricketer.
And reaction to Australia's comprehensive men's one-day series victory over India.
Photo: Sydney Thunder lift the WBBL Trophy (Getty Images)
12/3/2020 • 41 minutes, 39 seconds
Buttler on captaincy and the bowler turned delivery driver
The weight is over for Australia and India as their heavyweight series gets underway in Sydney.
England's Jos Buttler talks Twenty20 World Cup, Ashes and his captaincy hopes.
And Paul Van Meekeren, the Dutch fast bowler delivering takeaway food during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Photo: Jos Buttler talks to Eoin Morgan (Getty Images)
11/26/2020 • 36 minutes, 36 seconds
Boult on World Cup heartache and IPL glory
From a Super Over at Lord's to the opening ball of the IPL final, Trent Boult is a man who thrives on pressure. The New Zealand fast bowler talks about success, failure and plenty in between.
Plus, which cricketers have got the X-factor? The ones you leave on the bench apparently! We'll take a look at some controversial new rules designed to make the Big Bash even bigger.
Photo: Trent Boult (Getty Images)
11/19/2020 • 43 minutes, 7 seconds
Inside the Mumbai machine
We hear from Mumbai Indians batting coach Robin Singh after the franchise won a fifth Indian Premier League title in eight seasons.
Plus, has Covid-19 spoilt the Afghanistan story, or can natural talent and determination help them keep climbing cricket's ladder?
And the parallels between the US election race and Test cricket.
Photo: Mumbai Indians logo
11/12/2020 • 38 minutes, 16 seconds
Waugh on photography, India and cricket's future
Australia's former captain Steve Waugh tells us about his photographic journey through India in search of the spirit of cricket.
Waugh also looks ahead to the titanic Test series between Australia and India and gives his views on the future of Test cricket.
Plus, how women's cricketers at the Big Bash in Australia are using barefoot circles to raise awareness about the country's sometimes troubled relationship with its indigenous past.
(Photo: Steve Waugh. Credit: Getty Images)
11/5/2020 • 40 minutes, 11 seconds
Can cricket be a leading sport in the USA?
We discuss the latest in the Men’s IPL and also preview the Women’s IPL challenge with former India bowler, Snehal Pradhan, and look at the clash in scheduling with the Women’s Big Bash. Plus, we speak to the Chief Executive of US Cricket, Iain Higgins, on their bid for ICC full member status by 2030. And with the whole of the South African cricket board resigning, we speak to Mo Allie live from Cape Town about what is next for South Africa cricket.
Photo: USA team photo (Credit: Getty images)
10/29/2020 • 41 minutes, 6 seconds
Will split international teams benefit cricket?
Has cricket lost touch with the Black Lives Matter movement? West Indies captain Jason Holder tells me the game has gone quiet on racism.
Plus, could England and Australia playing different formats in different countries at the same time provide a financial lifeline to smaller nations?
And Nigeria women's captain Samantha Agazuma on the cricketing journey she hopes will take her all the way to the Big Bash in Australia.
Photo: Glenn Maxwell & Jos Buttler (Getty Images)
10/22/2020 • 43 minutes, 10 seconds
Mickey Arthur & how Miandad's six shook cricket
With Sri Lanka's strict quarantine rules thwarting their return to the cricket field, we ask head coach Mickey Arthur if he can see a solution.
And the power of a six - we look back at Javed Miandad's era-defining six for Pakistan against India in 1986 - and other key moments that changed the course of cricketing history.
Plus, tributes to former New Zealand captain John Reid.
Photo: Mickey Arthur (Getty Images)
10/15/2020 • 38 minutes, 35 seconds
Secrets of the world's best umpire
Reaction to a record-equalling 21st consecutive one-day victory by Australia's remarkable women's team.
Plus, Courtney Walsh on how he plans to turn West Indies women back into world beaters themselves.
And the unexpected star of the English cricketing summer - umpire Michael Gough on how he gave up playing cricket at the age of 23 and went on to become statistically the best Test umpire in the world.
Photo: Umpire Michael Gough (Getty Images)
10/8/2020 • 50 minutes, 44 seconds
Flintoff, bulimia and the strain of success
Reaction to an astonishing week in the Indian Premier League, including a record run chase, a Super Over and a gravity-defying boundary save.
Plus, as England legend Andrew Flintoff reveals his battle with bulimia, we'll hear the story of Sarah Coyte, the World Cup-winning Australia bowler who took a break from the game to deal with an eating disorder - and returned to win the Big Bash. Some listeners may find this content upsetting.
West Indies head coach Phil Simmons talks about the challenges facing cricket's poorer nations during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Photo: Andrew Flintoff in 2005 (Getty Images)
10/1/2020 • 40 minutes, 22 seconds
Dean Jones - a 'shocking loss' to cricket
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma pay tribute to Dean Jones, the great Australia batsman who has died at the age of 59.
Plus, we're joined by Dhiraj Malhotra, CEO of Delhi Capitals, to discuss a controversial week in the Indian Premier League.
Australia vice-captain Rachael Haynes looks welcomes the return of women's international cricket - with fans.
And a dispute over Don Bradman's childhood cricket pitch prompts a debate over how we remember our sporting heroes.
Photo: Dean Jones (Getty Images)
9/24/2020 • 42 minutes, 56 seconds
Rhodes on cricket's fielding revolution
Reaction to Australia's thrilling victory over England in the one-day series at Old Trafford.
Former South Africa star Jonty Rhodes on the incredible advances in fielding in the Indian Premier League, which starts in Dubai this weekend.
And as women's international cricket returns, West Indies batter Hayley Matthews relives the day when she toppled Australia to win the T20 World Cup at the age of 18.
Photo: Jonty Rhodes (Getty Images)
9/17/2020 • 47 minutes, 45 seconds
Bell on Ashes glory and coaching ambitions
We're joined by England batting great Ian Bell as he bows out of the game with 118 Test matches and more than 20,000 first class runs to his name.
Find out more about a new campaign in Australia that's fronting up to racism and intolerance in cricket.
Can England repeat their T20 dominance over Australia in the 50-over form?
And a life of luxury in the IPL bio-bubble.
(Photo: Ian Bell celebrates and Ashes hundred in 2013. Credit: Getty Images)
9/10/2020 • 48 minutes, 7 seconds
Meet Australia's new fast bowling star
Australia quick Riley Meredith joins us to look ahead to the series against their oldest rivals England.
Plus, with women's international cricket set to return, we speak to two of England's biggest stars - Katherine Brunt and Nat Sciver.
And an existential threat to cricket in South Africa. We head to Cape Town to find out about the latest crisis in one of the sport's traditional strongholds.
Photo: Riley Meredith (Getty Images)
9/3/2020 • 42 minutes, 10 seconds
Anderson's 600, Dutch women's cricket and the CPL bio-bubble
On Stumped we discuss whether Jimmy Anderson is the greatest pace bowler of all time after he became the first seam bowler to take 600 Test wickets and we reflect on the third test match between England and Pakistan where Zak Crawley scored 267.
How has the postponement of the Women's World Cup affected teams who were hoping to qualify? The head coach of the Dutch women's national side Sean Trouw joins us to explain what they have been doing during Coronavirus and how they have seen a rise in participation numbers since the start of the pandemic.
Plus one of the biggest parties in world sport, the Caribbean Premier League began last week but how does the bio-bubble in Trinidad and Tobago compare to England? We speak to Danny Morrison who is a journalist there.
Photo: James Anderson of England celebrates after taking the wicket of Azhar Ali of Pakistan to reach 600 Test Match Wickets during Day Five of the 3rd #RaiseTheBat Test Match between England and Pakistan at the Ageas Bowl on August 25, 2020 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images for ECB)
8/27/2020 • 41 minutes, 13 seconds
How 'rock star' Dhoni wowed the world
We bid farewell to the iconic wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni and hear from his former India coach Greg Chappell.
Plus - how do you solve a problem like bad light? We'll try to find a solution to one of cricket's oldest dilemmas.
And can a ground-breaking sponsorship in the India Premier League help tackle the stigma around women's periods?
Photo:MS Dhoni in 2005 (Getty Images)
8/20/2020 • 46 minutes, 14 seconds
Edwards: Missed opportunity to showcase women’s cricket
We reflect on the first Test match between England and Pakistan and discuss the remarkable comeback from England. Plus Jos Buttler said he ‘owed his team some runs’ following his wicket-keeping mistakes, so the team look at how wicket-keeping has evolved over the years.
The Women’s ODI World Cup has been postponed until 2022, so former England captain Charlotte Edwards joins us to speak about women’s cricket and the lack of it to be exact - there has been no international women’s cricket played since March..
Plus, a report has been published saying 34% of players in a host of T20 domestic leagues have experienced either late, or non-payment, problems. We speak to the head of the global players’ union.
Photo: Former England captain Charlotte Edwards during day two of the Kia Women's Test of the Women's Ashes Series between England and Australia Women in 2015 (Credit: Getty Images).
8/13/2020 • 36 minutes, 15 seconds
Ireland's Green Machine
On Stumped this week, Alison Mitchell is back in the Old Trafford bio-bubble, as England - fresh from beating the West Indies - take on Pakistan in another three-Test series. Alison, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma will be speaking to the PCB's Chief Executive Officer Wasim Khan. And they'll be joined by Ireland's High Performance Director Richard Holdsworth after his side recorded their highest successful run chase in One Day Internationals against world champions England.
Image: Harry Tector of Ireland celebrates victory watched on by Saqib Mahmood of England during the Third One Day International between England and Ireland (Getty Images)
8/6/2020 • 47 minutes, 42 seconds
Super Broad and Super League
Alison Mitchell, Alister Nicholson and Charu Sharma reflect on the first bio-secure Test series between England and the West Indies, and pay homage to Stuart Broad after he takes his 500th Test wicket. And as one bio-bubble in Manchester finishes, another starts in Southampton ahead of the launch of the inaugural 50-over Super League. We're joined by stand-in England head coach Paul Collingwood as his World Champions take on Ireland in a three-match ODI series.
Image: England's Stuart Broad celebrates taking the wicket of West Indies' Kraigg Brathwaite, his 500th Test wicket, on the final day of the third Test cricket match (Credit: Photo by MARTIN RICKETT/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
7/30/2020 • 58 minutes, 11 seconds
Ben Stokes: "The best cricketer I've played with"
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma chat to England opener Dom Sibley fresh from his maiden home Test century during England's victory over the West Indies in the second Test at Old Trafford, and pay homage to "Mr Incredible" Ben Stokes after he starred with the bat, ball, and in the field. We also reflect on the postponement of the 2020 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia and discuss the likely knock-on effect it’ll have on this year’s Indian Premier League. Plus we look at the return of cricket fans in grounds in England this weekend.
Image: England's Ben Stokes (L) and England's Dom Sibley return after lunch on the second day of the second Test cricket match between England and the West Indies at Old Trafford in Manchester, northwest England on July 17, 2020 (Photo by MICHAEL STEELE/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
7/23/2020 • 42 minutes, 4 seconds
Are the West Indies heading for Test greatness?
Alison Mitchell is at Old Trafford in another bio-secure bubble as England's men look to bounce back from last week's defeat to the West Indies. Windies star batsman Jermaine Blackwood joins us to reflect on his match-winning innings, as we discuss whether they can become the best Test team on the planet. We also reflect on England’s decision to drop Jofra Archer after he broke bio-secure protocols. And we look at the return of recreational cricket in England and ask how the club game is coping amid lockdowns around the world.
Image: West Indies captain Jason Holder celebrates with John Campbell after winning the first Test match against England in Southampton. (Getty Images)
7/16/2020 • 38 minutes, 19 seconds
Cricket in a bio-bubble
After a 117-day absence, live international cricket is back. Ali is in Southampton as England take on the West Indies behind closed doors. She gives us a behind-the-scenes tour of the media bio-bubble and speaks to England bowler Mark Wood. And with a decision on the Men’s T20 World Cup expected next week, Ali, Jim and Charu discuss whether the IPL should be allowed to take its place in the schedule.
Image: England cricketers wearing face masks at the Ageas Bowl. (Getty Images)
7/9/2020 • 42 minutes, 26 seconds
Brathwaite on Weekes, Stokes and BLM
Cricket Australia chief executive Nick Hockley on how the organisation can bounce back from the financial turmoil and job cuts caused by Covid-19.
Plus, can the West Indies keep up their impressive run against England when their Test series begins in Southampton next week?
We're joined by their one-day and Twenty20 star Carlos Brathwaite, who also talks about his memories of West Indies icon Sir Everton Weekes, who has died at the age of 95.
Photo: Carlos Brathwaite (Getty Images)
7/2/2020 • 43 minutes, 57 seconds
Cricket's return on Covid-19 knife edge
As 10 Pakistan players test positive for Covid-19, can their tour of England really go ahead?
Plus, the damaging effects of the coronavirus shutdown on recreational cricket in England.
And an interview with England head coach Lisa Keightley as she plots their defence of the Women's World Cup in New Zealand next year.
Photo: A cricket fan in Karachi (Getty Images)
6/25/2020 • 42 minutes, 22 seconds
Waqar, Australian turmoil & Windies rebels
As chief executive Kevin Roberts loses his job as CEO of Cricket Australia, we'll ask why the Covid-19 crisis has been so badly mishandled in one of the strongholds of the sport.
Plus, Pakistan fast bowling great Waqar Younis looks ahead to their tour of England.
And 'The Unforgiven' - a new book on the black West Indian cricketers branded traitors for taking money to play in apartheid South Africa.
Photo: Waqar Younis (Getty Images)
6/18/2020 • 44 minutes, 6 seconds
Racism in cricket
As the Black Lives Matter movement sweeps across the world, we throw the spotlight on racial inequality in cricket.
We hear from the first black woman to play for England, Ebony Rainford-Brent, on her experiences of racism growing up in the sport and how she's trying to make a difference with young cricketers at Surrey.
We also hear from former West Indies captain Darren Sammy, who claims he was given a racially offensive nickname, and Aboriginal Australian John McGuire who says his path to the top of the game was blocked because of the colour of his skin.
Picture: Ebony Rainford-Brent and Darren Sammy (Getty Images)
6/11/2020 • 50 minutes, 51 seconds
The return of cricket
We discuss the latest cricket news including the West Indies scheduled tour of England. Plus cricket is finally back! Eight weeks after the season should have begun, an exhibition match was played in Guernsey. We hear from some of the people involved and speak to Guernsey Cricket Board CEO, Mark Latter. And we find out how the England women’s cricket team is helping the German women’s team to make the game more competitive.
Photo: The first cricket match back in the British Isles after Coronavirus (Credit: Hayden Atkin/BBC Guernsey)
6/4/2020 • 41 minutes, 24 seconds
Psychological habits and how to break them
We speak to a psychologist who explains to us why he have habits, if we can make new ones and break old ones and how difficult it will be for people to change theirs. This comes after Australia paceman Mitchell Starc said the ICC's temporary saliva ban could risk 'boring' cricket.
Plus, we hear from ICC Women's Cricket Manager and former England player Holly Colvin on their 100% cricket campaign and how the women's game can grow globally.
Credit: Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc looks at the ball as he reaches his bowling mark on the third day's play of the second Test between Australia and South Africa (Photo: AFP)
5/28/2020 • 41 minutes, 39 seconds
Cricket, but not as we know it
The latest on cricket's return to the field of play. As the game introduces unprecedented measures to ensure the safety of players, will India agree to tour Sri Lanka - and will the West Indies deem it safe enough to travel to England in July?
Plus, how a cricket tour of Britain in 1911 pointed the way towards an independent India.
And table cricket on Table Mountain.
Photo:
5/21/2020 • 43 minutes, 38 seconds
Archer eager for action
England World Cup winner Jofra Archer talks about bowling with a tennis ball in his garage, playing behind closed doors and reveals the surprise name of the toughest opponent he's ever faced.
We'll take you to India to find out how the nation is coping without its number one obsession - cricket.
And Zimbabwe batsman Brendan Taylor on how Covid-19 has stalled the cricketing revival in his country.
Photo: Jofra Archer (Getty Images)
5/14/2020 • 37 minutes, 52 seconds
The tropical island where cricket carries on
Could women's cricket be the hardest hit by the Covid-19 shutdown? We hear from Middlesex captain Naomi Dattani, whose hopes of a breakthrough year have been shattered.
Plus, we'll take you to the only cricketing nation in the world where the game is still being played. It's business as usual in the virus-free tropical island of Saint Helena.
And how should Darren Lehmann's tenure as Australia coach be remembered?
Photo: St Helena (Getty Images)
5/7/2020 • 37 minutes, 51 seconds
How Sana Mir changed women's cricket in Pakistan
As Sana Mir retires, we'll analyse her inspirational role for female cricketers in Pakistan with the coach who helped her become the number one bowler in the world.
Plus, should The Hundred seek Indian investment following its postponement until 2021?
And, how Twenty20 went from a hit and giggle to the face of modern cricket.
Photo: Sana Mir (Getty Images)
4/30/2020 • 50 minutes, 1 second
Smith's new challenge and blind cricket
He was the uncompromising captain of South Africa for more than a decade. Now, as director of cricket, he's tasked with navigating a path through a crisis both on and off the field.
Graeme Smith is our special guest this week.
Plus, England visually-impaired captain Ed Hossell discusses the obstacles to the game in England.
And will shining a cricket ball with saliva be considered bad taste after coronavirus?
Photo: Graeme Smith (Getty Images)
4/23/2020 • 52 minutes, 14 seconds
Sandpapergate: Inside the ball-tampering scandal
We're joined by the man at the middle of one of the biggest scandals in cricket history.
Umpire Ian Gould tells us about the “heart-stopping moment” when Australia’s plot to tamper with the ball was uncovered in Cape Town in 2018 – and the infamous scenes that followed.
Plus, a special report from a camp in Beirut where cricket is providing a source of joy to Syrian refugees.
Photo: Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft with umpires in Cape Town (Getty Images)
4/16/2020 • 49 minutes, 1 second
Cummins on IPL, Ashes glory and wedding plans
Australia's Pat Cummins, the top-ranked Test bowler in the world, talks to Stumped after being named one of Wisden's five cricketers of the year.
He talks about doubts over the Indian Premier League during coronavirus, life in lockdown and his reflections on the 2019 Ashes.
Plus, sports psychologist Steve Sylvester on how players can cope mentally with the cricketing standstill.
(Photo: Pat Cummins. Credit: Getty Images)
4/9/2020 • 48 minutes, 37 seconds
Should top cricketers take pay cuts?
As the Indian Premier League looks set to be cancelled or postponed, we speak to the chief executive of the Delhi Capitals Dhiraj Malhotra.
Plus should international cricketers take pay cuts to help out with the financial impact of coronavirus on the game?
And England women's star Tammy Beaumont on volunteering for the National Health Service and keeping fit in lockdown.
Photo: Virat Kohli and Joe Root (Getty Images)
4/2/2020 • 41 minutes, 39 seconds
The struggle of being stuck away from home
On this week's Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell we discuss how the world is coping with the coronavirus pandemic.
We hear from cricketer Iain O'Brien who is frantically trying to get from New Zealand back to England to be reunited with his family.
We also look at the Hundred and how domestic cricket in England will have to adapt.
Plus we take a look at the new TV series taking us behind the scenes of one of cricket’s most famous tales of redemption. We are joined by Andre Mauger who directed 'The Test'.
Photo: Iain O'Brien of the Blackcaps walks back after an unsuccessful appeal against Sachin Tendulkar of India during the second one day international match between the New Zealand Black Caps and India at Westpac Stadium on March 6, 2009 in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Marty Melville/Getty Images)
3/26/2020 • 38 minutes, 2 seconds
Cricket in the time of coronavirus
This week we discuss how coronavirus is affecting cricket domestically, globally and financially. Doctor Daniel Plumley is a sports finance expert and gives us the latest.
We speak to bowler Tymal Mills on what it was like to play in Pakistan before the League was cancelled and what the feeling is among his fellow teammates. He also tells us what it was like to have cricket back in Pakistan.
Plus we hear stories of cricketing kindness from across the world where players and communities are coming together.
Photo: Credit: A health official wearing a facemask amid concerns of the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus checks the body temperature of a cricket fan ahead of a Pakistan Super League fixture (Photo: AFP)
3/19/2020 • 36 minutes, 17 seconds
Australia and Katy Perry light up women's cricket
Australia lit up the MCG in front of a record crowd to seal a fifth Twenty20World Cup title in style - Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss how they can build on this success.
In contrast, we figure out why India's cricketers failed to deliver on the big stage and how long before we see the first women's Indian Premier League.
Picture (Credit - Getty Images)
3/12/2020 • 35 minutes, 50 seconds
Australia v India preview
Can the hosts and defending champions Australia make it 5 World Cup wins when they face India on home soil in Sunday's final of the women's Twenty20 World Cup final at the MCG?
It's the biggest tournament in the women's game to date - we'll preview the showdown.
Picture (Credit - AFP).
3/6/2020 • 26 minutes, 29 seconds
Can South Africa win their first T20 World Cup?
It's been billed as the biggest women's Twenty20 World Cup to date - we've already seen quite a few surprises with Pakistan beating former champions West Indies and South Africa beating England in dramatic fashion - we speak to South Africa spinner Sune Luus about whether they can actually pull off one of the greatest shocks to go on and win the tournament for the first time.
Plus South African cricketer and Hampshire fast bowler Kyle Abbott tells us how Brexit affects his Kolpak contract.
Picture - Sune Luus (Credit - Getty Images)
2/27/2020 • 32 minutes, 43 seconds
Ross Taylor joins the 100 club
New Zealand's leading Test run scorer Ross Taylor will become the first player to reach 100 international appearances in all three formats of the game as the Blackcaps begin their Test series against India.
Taylor will also be the fourth New Zealander to reach the landmark in Test cricket. He tells Stumped he never expected to reach this iconic landmark in the game.
We'll also speak to England fast bowler Katherine Brunt with the Women's T20 World Cup underway this week. Brunt hopes England can repeat their heroics of 2009 when they won the tournament and she believes it will be difficult for the hosts, four-time champions Australia, to continue their dominance in the competition.
Photo: Ross Taylor celebrates a Test century (Getty Images)
2/20/2020 • 56 minutes, 15 seconds
The story of rising star Naseem Shah
Pakistan's 16 year old teenage sensation Naseem Shah took a historic hat-trick during the first Test against Bangladesh - we go back to the start of his journey and speak to a coach who spotted his talent.
We'll also reflect on Bangladesh causing an upset by beating India in the final to win their maiden under 19 World Cup title.
Alison Mitchell, Clint Wheeldon and Charu Sharma present this week's programme.
Picture - Naseem Shah delivers the ball during the third day of the first cricket Test match between Pakistan and Bangladesh (Photo: AFP)
2/13/2020 • 50 minutes, 20 seconds
Kapil Dev on '83 and Kohli
He led India to their first World Cup triumph in 1983 but what does Kapil Dev make of the current team and their captain Virat Kholi. Find out from the man himself.
The story of that iconic world cup victory is being made into a film… it will be released in April.
And how Rising Australian star Anika Learoyd is reconnecting with her indigenous roots by playing cricket.
Picture - Kapil Dev (Credit - Getty Images)
2/6/2020 • 45 minutes, 3 seconds
Sutherland: Australia's next Ellyse Perry?
David Gower on England's series victory in South Africa, and whether more needs to be done to share the wealth in Test cricket.
Plus, the Australian teenager being tipped for the very top - Annabel Sutherland tells us about her surprise call-up for the T20 World Cup.
And there's more Super Over heartbreak for New Zealand, this time at the hands of India.
Photo: Annabel Sutherland (Getty Images)
1/30/2020 • 43 minutes, 59 seconds
England's Pope, Japan's rise and Lord's loosens the tie
As Ollie Pope becomes England's youngest Test centurion for 14 years, we ask his mentor Alec Stewart when he first realised he had a special talent on his hands.
Plus, cricket puts down roots in Japan. Coach Chris Thurgate's two sons are playing for the country in the Under-19s World Cup.
And what does Jim Maxwell make of Lord's relaxing its famous dress code for The Hundred.
Photo: Ollie Pope (Getty Images)
1/23/2020 • 45 minutes, 30 seconds
Is spin bowling a dying art?
With only three spinners in the top 20 of the world Test bowling rankings, we'll discuss why slow bowlers are struggling to make an impact in the company of former India spinner Maninder Singh.
Plus - a groundbreaking move from Cricket Brazil. Find out why the South American champions are investing heavily in the women's game but not the men's.
Photo: Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan (Getty Images)
1/16/2020 • 38 minutes, 19 seconds
Does Test cricket need to change to survive?
Shane Warne auctions his Baggy Green cap and Tim Paine visits firefighters as Australian cricket comes together to support the bush fire rescue appeal.
As he prepares to lead Nigeria in their first ever global tournament, the country's under-19 captain Sylvester Okpe tells us how he stumbled upon the sport in a country addicted to football.
And a debate on ICC proposals for four-day Test cricket.
Photo: Ben Stokes (Getty Images)
1/8/2020 • 43 minutes, 55 seconds
How will the Bushfires in Australia Impact the Cricket?
As the Bushfires continue to devastate lives and towns throughout South Australia, we look at the impact and health implications it has on cricketers during the third Test between Australia and New Zealand which is being played in Sydney.
Plus, is technology benefiting or spoiling the game? We speak to the DRS founder Ian Taylor after the Aussie captain Tim Paine publically questioned the method.
Join Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma.
Picture - Liam Hatcher of the NSW Blues stands in the outfield amid the smoke haze from bushfires during a Sheffield Shield cricket match at the SCG. (Credit: Reuters)
1/2/2020 • 35 minutes, 36 seconds
Stumped: A look back at 2019
Join Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma as they look back on a rollercoaster of a year of cricket in 2019.
They will be with Curtly Ambrose on the dancefloor, who can forget Ben Stokes lighting up the World Cup and we hear how Jemma Barsby copes with playing elite cricket whilst dealing with multiple sclerosis.
Photo: Eoin Morgan of England with Trophy during ICC Cricket World Cup Final between England and New Zealand on July 14, 2019
12/28/2019 • 35 minutes, 30 seconds
Can Smith solve South Africa's problems?
We throw the spotlight on the crisis in South African cricket.
With the governing body and players' union at loggerheads - and so much talent and money deserting the sport - can the country remain a cricketing force?
The appointment of former captain Graeme Smith as acting director of cricket has brought some stability - but the state of the sport in one of its proudest playing nations remains very fragile indeed.
Plus, the 12-ball trial to earn yourself a life-changing contract in the Indian Premier League.
And a new award in Australia to honour the country's indigenous trailblazers from the 1800s.
Photo: Graeme Smith (Getty Images)
12/20/2019 • 30 minutes, 40 seconds
Perth, Pakistan and politics
A special report from the stands of the Rawalpindi stadium as the Pakistani public get to see their Test heroes on home soil for the first time in a decade.
Plus, the pink ball lands in Perth as Australia take on New Zealand.
And, as the UK elects a new government, why do politicians turn to cricketing metaphors to get their message across?
Photo: Mohammad Abbas celebrates taking the wicket of Dinesh Chandimal. (Getty images)
12/13/2019 • 41 minutes, 1 second
The understudy who stole the show
Australia's Marnus Labuschagne was a concussion substitute for Steve Smith at Lord's in August - now he's leading from the front with back to back Test hundreds.
Plus, why do so many right-handed cricketers choose to bat left-handed? We speak to an expert on human movement who says a reversed stance could mean higher scores for batsmen at every level.
Photo: Marnus Labuschagne (Getty Images)
12/6/2019 • 44 minutes, 4 seconds
Root's captaincy, Kohli tactics and Ashes urn tour
Is it time for Joe Root to give up the England captaincy in a bid to regain his batting form?
We'll reflect on a heavy defeat for England in New Zealand - and comfortable wins for Australia and India.
Plus, the remarkable story of Shafali Verma - the record-breaking Indian schoolgirl who's breaking the records of her hero Sachin Tendulkar.
And the Ashes urn goes on tour.
Photo: Joe Root (Getty Images)
11/28/2019 • 44 minutes, 24 seconds
Romanian internet star hits Australia
Reflections on the opening exchanges in the Test series in Australia and New Zealand.
The Pakistan cricket chief Wasim Khan tells Alison Mitchell how he convinced Sri Lanka to return for a Test series, 10 years after the deadly attack on their team bus.
And the Romanian cricketer who became an internet sensation through his unorthodox bowling and love for the game.
Photo: Pavel Florin among Australia fans at Lord's
11/21/2019 • 40 minutes, 59 seconds
Indian fairy tales, Barsby's battle and Nepal
Two record-breaking feats in India - and the return of Test cricket to Pakistan.
Meet Jemma Barsby, a Women's Big Bash winner who plays elite cricket while coping with the effects of multiple sclerosis.
And a report from the emerging cricket nation of Nepal, where an MCC tour is helping grow the sport at grassroots level.
Photo: Deepak Chahar (Getty Images)
11/15/2019 • 38 minutes, 9 seconds
Sir Viv, smog and Saint Helena
West Indies great Sir Viv Richards gives his views on the battle between Test cricket and Twenty20 - and reveals the best three bowlers he ever faced.
How the Delhi smog is affecting cricket.
And, we'll take you to the tropical island in the South Atlantic where cricket has been played for more than 200 years.
Photo: Sir Viv Richards (Getty Images)
11/8/2019 • 47 minutes, 42 seconds
Does Shakib deserve sympathy or scorn?
As protests break out in Bangladesh following Shakib Al Hasan's corruption ban, we'll ask whether the game should have any sympathy for the star all-rounder who failed to report illegal approaches from a bookmaker.
It's party time in Papua New Guinea and Namibia as both teams reach the men's Twenty20 World Cup for the first time.
And meet the Pakistani women's star breaking new ground in Australia.
Photo: Shakib Al Hasan (Getty Images)
10/31/2019 • 50 minutes, 30 seconds
Does English cricket need The Hundred?
British sporting history was made this week with the first ever draft held for the new 100 ball competition which will take place next year in the UK. Alison Mitchell, Geoff Lemon and Charu Sharma discuss whether this format will be a success. Will it live up to the hype?
And we hear from former Sri Lanka international Kumar Sangakkara on his new role as the president of the Marylebone Cricket Club.
Picture - The Hundred Draft (Credit - Getty Images)
10/24/2019 • 34 minutes, 18 seconds
World Twenty20: Can Singapore join the party?
Can Singapore continue their amazing rise by reaching the finals of the men's Twenty20 World Cup?
Plus new regulations forcing Irish cricketers to decide between club and country.
And why an Australian all-rounder only has himself to blame for the freak injury that's ruled him out of the start of their Test summer.
Photo: West Indies celebrate World T20 in 2014 (Getty Images)
10/18/2019 • 34 minutes, 17 seconds
Silverwood on the Ashes, Brexit and karate
England's new head coach Chris Silverwood tells us his plan for winning back the Ashes in Australia - and how a black belt in karate has helped him develop the skills to succeed in international cricket.
Plus, rugby league's "Woman of Steel" Courtney Hill on why the new riches flooding into women's cricket might tempt her back to the sport she quit last year.
Photo: Chris Silverwood (Getty Images)
10/10/2019 • 40 minutes, 22 seconds
Can anyone stop Australia's women?
After more record-breaking feats from Australia's women's team, we'll ask whether their domination is damaging the credibility of the women's game.
Plus, Afghanistan's new head coach Lance Klusener tells us what attracted him to one of the toughest jobs in cricket - and explains why his former team-mate Gary Kirsten is the right man to lead England.
Photo: Alyssa Healy (Getty Images)
10/3/2019 • 36 minutes, 56 seconds
England's new fast bowling hope
Meet Saqib Mahmood, the exciting young fast bowler England have picked to meet fire with fire in the next Ashes series.
Plus, as confusion reigns in the Indian batting order - are teams overthinking their Twenty20 tactics?
And the 43-year-old all-rounder whose recent heroics with bat and bowl have earned him a 23rd year on the English county circuit.
Photo: Saqib Mahmood (Getty Images)
9/26/2019 • 46 minutes, 17 seconds
A summer like no other
Reflections on a blockbuster summer of cricket in which England won the World Cup and Australia retained the Ashes.
Should Steve Smith return to the Australia captaincy next year? Can England's next coach plug the holes in their batting order?
As Cricket Australia's chief executive reveals plans for more lucrative matches with India, where would that leave the sport's poorer nations?
Plus, an insider's guide to the workings of Spidercam.
Photo: Steve Smith and Ben Stokes
9/19/2019 • 48 minutes, 47 seconds
The return of the urn
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta discuss Australia retaining the Ashes, Afghanistan's historic test match win over Bangladesh and the latest on the future of MS Dhoni.
The team also hear from Australia bowling coach Troy Cooley on his side's blistering pace attack which has been so effective throughout the series.
Photo: Australia celebrate retaining the Ashes at Old Trafford (Image: Getty Images)
9/13/2019 • 34 minutes, 11 seconds
Steve Smith: Eccentric but exceptional
On this week’s episode, Alison Mitchell is joined by Sunil Gupta and Jim Maxwell to look at how the Ashes series is panning out.
As Steve Smith resumes his domination of the Ashes series, we’ll ask an England fast bowler if he can spot a single weakness in Australia’s batting superstar.
Plus, record-breakers of a different kind. The English village team that braved scorching heat and monsoon-like rain to play non-stop cricket for seven days!
Photo: Australia batsman Steve Smith celebrates after reaching his double century as Joe Root applauds during day two of the 4th Ashes Test. (Getty Images)
9/6/2019 • 41 minutes, 4 seconds
The miracle of Headingley (2019)
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss arguably one of the greatest days in Test match history.
We hear from England bowler Chris Woakes who tells us what it was like in the dressing room when Ben Stokes hit the winning runs and their celebratory trip to Mcdonalds afterwards.
Former England Captain David Gower compares the emotion of watching the match as a commentator to when he played in a similar Test Match in 1981 at Headingley.
Finally we look at where it went wrong for Australia and what we can expect for the rest of the Ashes series going forward.
Photo:Ben Stokes celebrates hitting the winning runs to win the 3rd Specsavers Ashes Test match. (Getty Images)
8/29/2019 • 47 minutes, 50 seconds
Archer, Biscay and Concussion
With Australia’s leading batsman Steve Smith missing the third Ashes Test because of a concussion we look at what can be done to make the sport safer and ask what cricket can learn from rugby union with the help of Dr Barry O’Driscoll, former medical adviser to the International Rugby Board.
Alison Mitchell and Jim Maxwell are at Headingley where Jofra Archer starred on the opening day with the ball in hand. Charu Sharma reacts to Ravi Shastri keeping his position as India head coach and Ravi Shastri’s omission from India’s team for the first Test against West Indies.
Photo: Jofra Archer celebrating his six wicket haul on day one (Getty Images)
8/23/2019 • 44 minutes, 59 seconds
Inclusion, Ashes & Amla
How will England fare in the second Ashes Test and could the ECB follow Cricket Australia's new policies for Transgender inclusion?
Alison Mitchell and Jim Maxwell are at at Lords, and Sunil Gupta joins in the conversation from Delhi to discuss the main talking points from the second Ashes Test as England look to fight back and level the series.
What can cricket in England learn from Cricket Australia's new policies for Transgender inclusion, and could the ECB follow suit?
After South Africa’s second highest run scorer Hashim Amla announced his retirement from international cricket we reflect on his 15-year Proteas career with the help of Ashwell Prince, Vernon Philander and his potential successor, Zubayr Hamza.
Plus we discuss the inclusion of a Women’s T20 competition in the 2022 Commonwealth Games and Chris Gayle’s decision to reverse his retirement.
Photo: Lyon celebrating his wicket against England (AFP)
8/16/2019 • 48 minutes, 22 seconds
Can England bounce back at Lord's?
After a damaging defeat at Edgbaston, can England bounce back at Lord's or will Australia take another giant stride towards retaining the Ashes?
Plus, imagine reaching the highest level of cricket, only to be told your bowling action breaks the laws of the game. A former international cricketer who was called for throwing tells us about the stigma he carried for the rest of his career.
Photo: England captain Joe Root gives team talk (Getty Images)
8/8/2019 • 50 minutes, 56 seconds
Smith's redemption
As former Australia captain Steve Smith returns from his ball-tampering ban with an emotional century on the first day of the Ashes, we’ll look back on one of the great Test innings of all time with his former team-mate Mitchell Johnson.
Plus, the world Test championship – a shot in the arm for Test cricket or an unnecessary fiddle that will have little effect?
Photo: Steve Smith celebrates his century against England (Getty Images)
8/2/2019 • 48 minutes, 35 seconds
When Lara ruled the cricket world
We turn the clock back 25 years to remember Brian Lara's incredible impact on English county cricket.
Reaction to England's humiliation by Ireland at Lord's just 10 days after their World Cup triumph.
Plus, life at the edge: a new film exposes the mental strains of cricket at the highest level.
Photo: Brian Lara in 1994 (Getty Images)
7/25/2019 • 45 minutes, 36 seconds
The greatest game ever - but where next for cricket?
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma reflect on an incredible World Cup final and former England captain Alec Stewart talks about the work ahead in order to create a legacy for generations to come.
Plus, we meet the one-woman database who took it on herself to keep a comprehensive record of the women's game around the world.
Photo: Schoolchildren touch the Cricket World Cup trophy at The Oval (Getty Images)
7/19/2019 • 41 minutes, 52 seconds
England v New Zealand: The World Cup Final
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Bryan Waddle preview England v New Zealand in the World Cup final at Lord's as India and Australia bow out in the semi-finals.
7/12/2019 • 49 minutes, 21 seconds
How England came back from the brink
England are into the semi-finals of the men's Cricket World Cup after resounding wins over India and New Zealand. We analyse how Eoin Morgan's team went from the brink of elimination to the threshold of glory.
Plus as Australia strike first in the women's Ashes, a former great from each team picks out the players who will shape the latest edition of one of the game's biggest rivalries.
Photo: Eoin Morgan and Mark Wood (Getty Images)
7/4/2019 • 29 minutes, 1 second
Curtly Ambrose World Cup audience special
Curtly Ambrose and Ebony Rainford-Brent join Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell at a cricket club in Manchester to discuss the World Cup with a live audience.
Is England's World Cup blip temporary or terminal, can Australia can land a sixth crown, or is fate guiding Pakistan towards a repeat of their triumph in 1992?
Photo: Sir Curtly Ambrose at South-West Manchester Cricket Club (BBC)
6/28/2019 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 11 seconds
Can New Zealand go all the way?
Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are all together at Trent Bridge to discuss the Cricket World Cup so far.
How will India cope without Shikhar Dhawan, are New Zealand the dark horses for the competition and how is cricket making a difference in Afghanistan?
We hear from David Warner, Mitchell Santner and fans who have attended some of the matches in the tournament.
Picture: Kane Williamson celebrating after hitting a six against New Zealand (Getty Images)
6/20/2019 • 38 minutes, 39 seconds
India v Pakistan: the biggest rivalry in sport?
Can a rare match between archrivals India and Pakistan breathe life into a rain-soaked World Cup?
We're joined by Yuvraj Singh as the India World Cup winner, who overcame cancer, retires from the international game.
And the curious case of the bails that lost their Zing.
Photo: India and Pakistan fans (Getty Images)
6/14/2019 • 45 minutes, 21 seconds
World Cup set for India-Australia showdown
From the shadows of London’s famous Oval cricket ground, the Stumped team look ahead to the biggest match of the men’s Cricket World Cup so far.
Australia face India, two teams with seven World Cup titles between them.
We reflect on a dismal start to the tournament by South Africa and ask former Proteas batsman Ashwell Prince why the team always seems to fluff their lines on cricket’s biggest stage.
Photo: Virat Kohli celebrates Aaron Finch wicket (Getty Images)
6/7/2019 • 41 minutes, 18 seconds
Stokes fires up England in their World Cup opener
After all the hype and build up, the cricket extravaganza is finally underway - the hosts England are strongly tipped to win the World Cup, Alison Mitchell, Geoff Lemon and Charu Sharma all reflect on their opening victory against South Africa in a game which saw Ben Stokes hit 89 with the bat and make a wonder catch.
We'll also discuss Australia's chances of retaining the title and find out what Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara thinks of his former side as they begin their campaign against New Zealand.
Picture - Ben Stokes (Credit - Getty Images)
5/31/2019 • 32 minutes, 20 seconds
The Cricket World Cup Countdown
Stumped presenters Alison Mitchell, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell count down their ten greatest ever matches from the Cricket World Cup.
We hear some of the key moments and speak to the players who were involved in those stand out games.
Photo: The ten captains from all of the teams involved in the 2019 Cricket World Cup (Getty Images)
5/24/2019 • 1 hour, 27 minutes, 32 seconds
Can England live up to the World Cup hype?
We preview the 2019 men's Cricket World Cup as the 10 top one-day teams in the world compete to lift the trophy at Lord's on 14 July.
We speak to former England director of cricket Andrew Strauss and Afghanistan fast bowler Hamid Hassan.
Plus, find out which match finished Number 1 in our shortlist of the greatest world cup matches in history.
Photo:England's Eoin Morgan, Adil Rashid and Mark Wood (Press Association)
5/24/2019 • 41 minutes, 6 seconds
South Africa's 1999 World Cup meltdown
Reaction to Mumbai Indians' fourth Indian Premier League title in seven years.
Plus, Damien Fleming relives the final over of Australia's extraordinary semi-final tie with South Africa in the 1999 World Cup.
And former Zimbabwe captain Tatenda Taibu on the threats that led him to flee his homeland.
Photo: South Africa's Lance Klusener (Getty Images)
5/17/2019 • 56 minutes, 49 seconds
How O'Brien battered England in Bangalore
Our Cricket World Cup countdown continues with the day Irish eyes were smiling. We'll hear from Kevin O'Brien, whose record-breaking century shocked England in 2011.
Plus, a World Cup final of a different kind at Lord's. We'll hear how street children from around the world sent out a powerful message of hope through the game of cricket.
Photo: Kevin O'Brien (Getty Images)
5/10/2019 • 40 minutes, 15 seconds
When Sri Lanka stunned the cricket world
Does cricket have a problem with recreational drugs? We ask whether the extra money in the game is leading players astray.
Sri Lanka's 1996 World Cup hero Hashan Tillakaratne remembers the amazing victory over Australia that rocked cricket's established order.
And how the sport is providing an escape to those New York immigrants who feel isolated in Donald Trump's America.
Photo: Sri Lanka during the 1996 World Cup final (Getty Images)
5/3/2019 • 46 minutes, 54 seconds
Is mixed-gender cricket a good idea?
How India's incredible victory over the mighty West Indies in the 1983 World Cup final ignited a nation's love affair with the game.
Plus, is it a risky PR stunt or a worthy campaign? We speak to the organisers of a controversial mixed-gender match which is setting out to transform perceptions of the women's game in India.
Photo: Veda Krishnamurthy, Harmanpreet Kaur, Mithali Raj and Virat Kohli (Credit: RCBTweets)
4/26/2019 • 49 minutes, 23 seconds
Could Archer derail England's World Cup bid?
Could England's decision to fast-track Barbados-born bowler Jofra Archer into their World Cup plans hamper their bid to win the tournament for the first time?
Plus, memories of the 2011 World Cup final in Mumbai when India beat Sri Lanka in style to deliver the ultimate prize to their cricket-mad fans.
Photo: Jofra Archer (Getty Images)
4/19/2019 • 48 minutes, 20 seconds
Kapil Dev's World Cup innings for the ages
We revisit Kapil Dev's extraordinary 175 for India at the 1983 World Cup through the eyes of the man with the best seat in the house - Zimbabwe wicketkeeper Dave Houghton.
Plus the student from South Australia who says his new fitness test can halt the injury epidemic among fast bowlers.
Photo: Kapil Dev at Tunbridge Wells (Getty Images)
4/12/2019 • 43 minutes, 21 seconds
Australia's springboard to world domination
We look back at Australia's one-run victory over India in 1987 that provided a catalyst for their era of supremacy.
And as another top South African turns his back on the national team, we'll look at what can be done to stop the talent drain from one of cricket's leading countries.
Photo: Dean Jones and Allan Border (Getty Images)
4/5/2019 • 43 minutes, 44 seconds
The IPL 'Mankad' furore
To mankad or not to mankad?
Why a controversial mode of dismissal named after an Indian player from the 1940s has rocked the cricket world this week.
In our World Cup countdown, we'll recall how Pakistan stunned England to win the tournament in 1992.
And the Aussie-born German international who wants to make cricket Europe's biggest summer team sport.
3/29/2019 • 39 minutes, 56 seconds
Elliott recalls 2015 World Cup heroics
We're starting our countdown to the men's Cricket World Cup. We'll hear from Grant Elliott, who takes us into his mind in the moments before he hit the six that took New Zealand into their first ever final. We'll also look ahead to the start of the Indian Premier League - and visit a project in India that's sending players to the Street Child World Cup.
Photo: Grant Elliott (Getty Images)
3/22/2019 • 45 minutes, 24 seconds
Australia's timely resurgence
After beating India 3-2, are Australia peaking in time for the men's World Cup?
It's a big week for Irish cricket with their first overseas Test match and the launch of a new European Twenty20 league.
And meet the fireman from Western Australia whose new invention promises to revolutionise backyard cricket.
3/15/2019 • 46 minutes, 26 seconds
Chin Music to Cha-Cha-Cha
Former West Indies fast bowler Curtly Ambrose on his unlikely reinvention as a ballroom dancer in Australian TV show Dancing with the Stars.
Plus, we meet the man at the centre of cricket's fight against corruption.
Alex Marshall, head of the International Cricket Council's anti-corruption unit, speaks to us from Sri Lanka, one of several cricket-playing countries where match-fixing is not a criminal offence.
(Photo: Siobhan Power and Curtly Ambrose Credit: Network 10)
3/8/2019 • 51 minutes, 29 seconds
Sri Lanka's history makers
The incredible rebirth of Sri Lankan cricket.
Embarrassed by England and thrashed in Australia, how did Sri Lanka become the first Asian team to win a Test series in South Africa? Former all-rounder Russel Arnold has his say.
Plus what's happened to the England women's team? World champions in 2017 - and yet struggling to qualify automatically for the defence of their crown in 2021.
Photo: Oshada Fernando (Getty Images)
3/2/2019 • 39 minutes, 6 seconds
Can England handle World Cup favourites tag?
With fewer than 100 days to go until the Cricket World Cup, we'll hear from the great West Indies captain Clive Lloyd, who lifted the inaugural trophy in 1975. He is unhappy that the tournament has not developed into a truly global event.
Plus, former England captain Nasser Hussain tells us why he thinks the hosts and favourites can finally win the World Cup at the 12th time of asking.
(Photo: Joe Root in Barbados. Credit: Getty Images)
2/23/2019 • 40 minutes, 9 seconds
Root's stance on homophobia
This week, West Indies bowler Shannon Gabriel was banned for four ODIs after comments made to Joe Root. The panel discuss the incident which overshadowed England's victory in St Lucia.
From Aussie Rules football to international cricket - hear from Australian rising star Jhye Richardson.
And there are ten overseas star players that play in both the Women's Big Bash League and the Kia Super League. Even though Rachel Priest plays cricket all over the world, she doesn't represent her nation anymore. She joins us on the programme to explain why.
Picture - Shannon Gabriel and Joe Root (Credit - Getty Images)
2/16/2019 • 38 minutes, 19 seconds
Are West Indies back for good?
West Indies are back - but for how long? Does the trouncing of England truly herald a second coming for the former giants of the game?
Plus former Australia opener Chris Rogers weighs up the strengths and weaknesses of England and Australia six months before the Ashes.
And the great Antarctic cricket bat mystery.
Photo: John Campbell and Kraigg Brathwaite celebrate (Getty Images)
2/8/2019 • 42 minutes, 44 seconds
When England Stormed Sabina Park
As Australia host Sri Lanka in Canberra, we ask why it's taken so long for the capital city of a cricket-mad nation to stage a Test match.
Plus David Capel recalls England's landmark victory over the West Indies in Jamaica in 1990.
And the All Blacks take on the Black Caps in New Zealand.
Photo: England celebrate in Jamaica (Getty Images)
1/31/2019 • 48 minutes, 13 seconds
Strength and Survival: The Billy Cookson Story
English cricketer Billy Cookson on the car crash in Australia that almost cost him his life and his long journey to recovery in a hospital thousands of miles from home.
Plus, news and views from the Gabba in Brisbane where a new-look Australia are taking on Sri Lanka.
And as Joe Root leads England in the West Indies, his predecessor Alastair Cook speaks about his development as a Test captain.
Photo: Car (Victoria Police) and Billy Cookson (Alison Mitchell)
1/24/2019 • 43 minutes, 35 seconds
An Audience With AB de Villiers
South Africa's AB de Villiers explains why he thinks playing in Pakistan is worth the risk - and leaves the door slightly ajar for a World Cup return.
Plus, three former Pakistan captains give their views on the team's recent slump.
And has India's MS Dhoni saved his World Cup place?
Photo: AB de Villiers (Getty Images)
1/19/2019 • 40 minutes, 50 seconds
India's History-Makers
As India complete the first ever Test series victory in Australia, Alison Mitchell speaks to former India batsman Aakash Chopra and Jim Maxwell runs the rule over the new faces in Australia's squad to play Sri Lanka.
Plus West Indies interim coach Richard Pybus speaks to Stumped reporter Sam Sheringham about the size of his task as the Windies prepare to host England.
Photo: Virat Kohli (Getty Images)
1/10/2019 • 46 minutes, 5 seconds
Is This the Best India Team to Tour Australia?
Ailson Mitchell and Jim Maxwell are at the Sydney Cricket Ground as India take on Australia in the final Test.
We speak to a relieved Dale Steyn after the South Africa fast bowler ended his three-and-a-half year wait to become his country's record Test wicket-taker.
And we'll be joined by Smriti Mandhana, the Indian batting star and recently crowned women's cricketer of the year.
Photo: Chesteshwar Pujara (Getty Images)
1/3/2019 • 41 minutes, 41 seconds
What Next for Test Newcomers Afghanistan and Ireland?
Cricket's newest Test nations face an exciting 2019 after their historic debuts.
We'll tell the stories behind Ireland and Afghanistan's journeys to Test cricket.
Plus former Ireland international Niall O'Brien and Afghan journalist Emal Pasarly on the next steps in cricket for their respective countries.
Picture: Afsar Zazai (AFP) & Kevin O'Brien (Getty Images)
12/29/2018 • 36 minutes, 55 seconds
Tensions Flare in Perth
As Australia level the series with India in Perth, former Australia batsman Ed Cowan analyses the spat between captains Tim Paine and Virat Kohli.
Plus Dwayne Bravo on the West Indies' love affair with Twenty20 cricket.
Picture: Virat Kohli and Tim Paine (Getty Images)
12/22/2018 • 44 minutes, 55 seconds
India Dazzle Down Under
One Test down, and it is advantage India Down Under. In a thrilling final day in Adelaide, India claimed victory - their first on Australian soil since 2008.
The Stumped team analyse the action and savour what looks to be a Test series for the ages. Can India go on to do something special? Or will Australia stamp out their ball-tampering demons in their first home Test since the scandal in March?
We hear from Australian greats Allan Border and Mitchell Johnson, along with Indian batter Aakash Chopra.
(Photo: Virat Kohli celebrates victory. Credit: Getty Images)
12/11/2018 • 32 minutes, 22 seconds
Australia v India: the redemption Test?
This week’s episode comes from Adelaide as Australia take on India in their first home Test since their ball-tampering scandal in South Africa earlier this year. Alison Mitchell is joined by Harsha Bhogle and Jim Maxwell in the Adelaide Oval commentary box as they reflect on the action so far.
12/8/2018 • 41 minutes, 45 seconds
Cricket Bids for Commonwealth Games Return
Australia women's captain Meg Lanning reflects on their dominant victory over England in the World Twenty20 final.
Plus, as cricket makes a bid for inclusion in the 2022 Commonwealth Games, South Africa's Paul Adams remembers his team's gold medal in the 1998 Games in Kuala Lumpur.
Photo: South Africa celebrate 1998 Commonwealth Games gold medal (Getty)
12/1/2018 • 50 minutes, 40 seconds
Patel's Dream Debut
Reaction to the opening exchanges between Australia and India as the Aussies name their squad for the first two Tests.
Are safety concerns and lack of opportunities in schools limiting the take-up of cricket among girls in India?
Plus, we meet 30-year-old New Zealand spinner Ajaz Patel, who inspired his team to one of the closest victories in Test history.
Photo: Ajaz Patel (Getty Images)
11/24/2018 • 44 minutes, 9 seconds
What can Australia's men learn from the women?
Australia have their fourth World Twenty20 title in sight - we hear from Ellyse Perry on how the women's team have bypassed the fiasco involving the scathing cultural review on Cricket Australia.
This week, Australia fast bowler John Hastings retired because of a bleeding lung condition and we hear from England spinner Jack Leach on coping with Crohn's disease.
Picture - Ellyse Perry (Getty Images)
11/17/2018 • 42 minutes, 19 seconds
Can We Ever Prevent Spot-Fixing?
It's being called a global epidemic. More allegations of match-fixing at the highest level of cricket.
But why aren't the players implicated by Al Jazeera being named, and what more can be done to cut the link between the fixers and the players?
Plus - as one great bowler prepares to call time on his career, another announces himself on the game's biggest stage.
10/29/2018 • 42 minutes, 37 seconds
Shane Warne
In an in-depth interview first broadcast in 2018, Australian legend Shane Warne looks back at his cricketing career, from taking 708 wickets in 145 Tests for Australia to bowling the most famous delivery of all time: the Ball of the Century.
Image: Shane Warne (Credit: BBC)
10/13/2018 • 39 minutes, 55 seconds
New Era for Australia
Australia look to repair relationships and build bridges from the cheating scandal that rocked the sport - we discuss Australia's new look squad as they face Pakistan in a two Test series in the UAE.
We also look ahead to the inaugural Afghanistan Premier League with rising star, Nepal's international Sandeep Lamichhane and we speak to Chris Carter who has decided to give up a career in cricket to become a pilot.
Picture - Tim Paine (Credit - Getty Images)
10/6/2018 • 40 minutes, 44 seconds
Has Sledging Gone too Far?
Charu Sharma, Alister Nicholson and Natalie Germanos ask whether Moeen Ali "Osama" revelation changes the way cricketers behave out in the field?
Xhosa-speaking South Africans have been playing cricket for more than 160 years. But only now can they do so in their mother tongue.
And we find out how a new cricket initiative is aiming to increase female participation from the South Asian community.
(Photo - Moeen Ali. Credit - Getty Images)
9/29/2018 • 40 minutes, 59 seconds
Ben Stokes: The Road to Redemption?
After being cleared of affray outside a Bristol nightclub, should England cricketer Ben Stokes play in the third Test against India which starts on Saturday?
The England and Wales Cricket Board will now decide whether they will punish Stokes further - and if so, what would be the appropriate sanction?
We also ask, what more can be done to attract black cricketers to play the sport?
And would Alison Mitchell be tempted to feature in a dancing contest in India?
Picture - Ben Stokes (Credit - Getty Images)
8/16/2018 • 34 minutes, 40 seconds
1,000 Tests Not Out
In 1877, England played their first ever Test match - 141 years on - they have become the first nation to reach 1000 matches in the longest format of the game - we reflect on England's Test history with cricket journalist Simon Wilde who has written a book called England: The Biography, the story of English Cricket 1877-2018.
Plus find out how Imran Khan went from a cricketing icon to potentially becoming Pakistan's prime minister.
Picture - Joe Root and Virat Kohli (Credit - Getty Images)
8/4/2018 • 40 minutes, 59 seconds
'Serious Boshing' – the Week Records Tumbled
England broke their own world record for the highest one-day international total, making 481 runs off 50 overs against Australia at Trent Bridge.
In professional cricket, only Surrey have got closer to 500, when they scored 496 at the Oval and only New Zealand Women's team have scored more in an ODI, when they hit Ireland for 490 earlier this month.
We ask, which team will reach the 500 mark first?
The Acting Chief Executive Officer of Cricket South Africa, Thabang Moroe, believes that the country's women and men cricketers should be treated equally, and therefore, must be paid the same. But not everyone agrees.
In an article, former South Africa Test batsman Boeta Dippenaar said men are rightly paid more - comments which have drawn a backlash from several of the county's leading female players. Dippenaar joined us on the show to explain why he feels it is unrealistic to expect female and male cricketers to be paid the same.
And we hear from Afghanistan's teenage sensation Rashid Khan following his country's Test debut in India.
Picture - Alex Hales (Credit - Getty Images)
6/21/2018 • 54 minutes, 7 seconds
The Rise of Afghanistan's Cricket Team
It's a nation that has been torn apart by decades of war but after a long long wait, finally Afghanistan are playing their first ever Test match against India - Our reporter Sam Sheringham is in India to find out about Afghanistan's remarkable journey.
The Afghan Cricket chairman Atif Mashal has been telling us what it means to be part of cricket's most exclusive club.
Bangladesh's women's team pulled off a dramatic three-wicket victory in the final against six-time champions India to clinch their maiden Asia Cup. Bangladesh's middle order batsman Nigar Sultana joined us on the show - she top scored with 27 in the final and she told Alison, Clint and Sunil what the title means to her and how she is hoping this will now raise the profile of women's cricket in Bangladesh.
And with Australia arriving in England with a new captain, a new coach and a new-look side, it's the first time they are playing international cricket since the infamous ball-tampering tour of South Africa. Alison, Clint and Sunil discuss whether Australia kept their promise of banter not sledging and a respect for the game and the opposition.
6/14/2018 • 42 minutes
Indigenous Beginnings: The History of Aboriginal Cricket
One-hundred and fifty years ago, 13 Aboriginals became the first Australia team to tour overseas when they travelled to England. Author Greg de Moore tells the remarkable story of how the Aboriginal team was created - which he believes is the most important part of Australian cricket's history.
To mark the anniversary, the best Aboriginal players from Australia are back in England this summer, to trace the steps of those pioneers in 1868. Hannah Darlington is one of them and she joins us at The Oval to discuss how indigenous cricket is developing Down Under.
And ahead of their tour of South Africa, we hear from England bowler Katherine Brunt - who believes the number of county teams needs to be reduced if the women's game is to progress. Brunt also talks about her long-term struggle with a back injury.
(Photo: An Aboriginal team from Western Australia, 1879. Credit: Getty Images)
6/8/2018 • 38 minutes, 50 seconds
Mickey Arthur Wonder Coach
Pakistan out-fought, out-skilled and outplayed England in the first Test at Lords to silence their critics - we ask how has Mickey Arthur transformed a team usually mocked for their fielding to showing England how to win in English conditions. We hear from legendary pace bowler Waqar Younis.
In contrast, where is it going wrong for England? Former England batsman James Taylor speaks to Alison Mitchell about how can Trevor Bayliss and Joe Root turn their form around having gone eight Tests without a win. Taylor's career was cut short by a heart condition and this week, has released a new book 'Cut Short'. He explains to Alison Mitchell how he felt let down by the ECB and The Players Association by the lack of care following his ordeal which left him fighting for his life.
And we sent Rahul Tandon to the Home of Cricket where the world's biggest cricket stars came together in a special one off T20 charity match to raise funds for the five cricket grounds in the Caribbean that were damaged by the Hurricanes Irma and Maria in September last year. Carlos Brathwaite skippered West Indies which included Chris Gayle, Andre Russell and veteran batsman Marlon Samuels. They were up against a World XI which included Pakistan's Shahid Afridi and Afghanistan legspinner Rashid Khan.
Picture - Mickey Arthur (Credit - Getty Images)
6/1/2018 • 42 minutes, 47 seconds
Does English Cricket have a Diversity Problem?
Vikram Solanki became the only full-time non-white coach across the domestic league in England after becoming assistant head coach of Surrey County Cricket Club - we speak to Roland Butcher, the first black player to represent England, on the lack of ethnic minority coaches in county cricket.
Two weeks ago, not many of you would have heard of 26-year-old wicketkeeper Heinrich Klaasen - but he is now been in the headlines following a remarkable performance with the bat to give South Africa a much needed victory in the fourth One Day International against India in Johannesburg. India eventually won their first bilateral series in South Africa with victory in the fifth ODI. Klaasen was called into the Proteas squad for his debut after Quinton de Kock injured his finger in the second ODI and Heinrick told Alison the last couple of weeks have been a complete dream.
Also on this week's programme, we pay tribute to the former New Zealand Test captain Bevan Congdon who died, one day short of his 80th birthday, after a long illness.
Congdon led New Zealand to their first win over Australia in Christchurch in 1974. The former Black Caps batsman John Parker played 22 Tests alongside Congdon including that historic win over the Aussies. He told Alison his memories of what it was like to share the same dressing room as Congdon.
(Photo: Roland Butcher. Credit - Getty Images)
2/17/2018 • 44 minutes, 58 seconds
Tendulkar Junior Makes Waves in Australia
How Sachin Tendulkar's son is starting his quest to follow in the footsteps of his celebrated father.
Meet the Australian sportswoman who's equally handy with a tennis racquet as she is a cricket bat.
And India's blind cricket team are the best in the world - but why aren't they funded by the national board?
(Photo: Arjun Tendulkar. Credit: ABC)
1/18/2018 • 48 minutes, 40 seconds
'You Guys Are History'
As The Oval hosts its 100th Test, former England fast bowler Devon Malcolm looks back on his incredible nine-wicket burst at the ground in 1994, and sets the record straight on some of the myths surrounding his remarkable career.
Tammy Beaumont, voted the best player of the Women's World Cup, on the impact of the tournament around the world.
Photo; Devon Malcolm (Getty Images)
7/29/2017 • 44 minutes, 44 seconds
Women's World Cup Final Special
Who will triumph in the Women’s World Cup final – England or India?
England’s Anya Shrubsole, star of their semi-final win over South Africa, looks ahead to the showpiece.
Rahul Tandon reports from Kolkata on the rise of the women’s game in India.
And Holly Colvin, head of Women's Cricket at the ICC, looks at the global impact of the tournament.
7/21/2017 • 46 minutes, 37 seconds
Smriti Mandhana - India's Golden Girl
India's Women's World Cup star Smriti Mandhana talks to Alison Mitchell about her upbringing in India, where she was never coached but copied her brother's batting technique.
John Buchanan reflects on the bitter pay dispute threatening to derail Australian cricket.
And meet Ian Holland, the reality TV cricketer.
Photo: Smriti Mandhana (Getty Images)
7/8/2017 • 38 minutes, 38 seconds
Kohli: Sinner or Sinned Against?
The fallout from Australia's series loss in India, as India captain Virat Kohli says the Aussies will never be his friends.
The charity sending cricket kit to Afghan refugees in Germany.
And England captain Joe Root on South Africa and the Ashes.
Photo: Virat Kohli (Getty Images)
4/3/2017 • 49 minutes, 17 seconds
Kohli: Sinner or Sinned Against?
The fallout from Australia's series loss in India, as India captain Virat Kohli says the Aussies will never be his friends.
The charity sending cricket kit to Afghan refugees in Germany.
And England captain Joe Root on South Africa and the Ashes.
(Photo: Credit:
4/1/2017 • 49 minutes, 17 seconds
India-Australia 'Cheating' Row
The fallout from a fiery Test match in Bangalore as Virat Kohli accuses Steve Smith of bending the rules. Dawid Malan talks about bringing joy to Pakistani people by playing the Super League final in Lahore. And England captain Heather Knight on a game-changing year for women's cricket.
(Photo: Steve Smith and Virat Kohli. Credit:Getty Images)
3/11/2017 • 39 minutes, 9 seconds
Is Root Ready to Captain England?
As Alastair Cook steps down as England captain, all eyes are on his successor-in-waiting Joe Root. We speak to Root’s England teammate and former housemate Gary Ballance about his credentials for the job.
We report from Cape Town on the launch of a new global Twenty20 League aimed at stopping the exodus of South African players to lucrative contracts abroad.
Fast bowler Kyle Abbott, who quit international cricket to join Hampshire, puts his side of the story.
Photo: Joe Root (Getty Images)
2/11/2017 • 39 minutes, 11 seconds
Warner Achieves Cricket's Holy Grail
As Australia batsman David Warner achieves one of cricket's rarest feats with 100 runs in the first session of a Test match, we'll ask why it remains such a novelty in an age of big bats, flat pitches and Twenty20 run fests.
Meet the Melbourne comedian who is turning the world's best female cricketers into karaoke stars.
And the South African schoolgirl who scored 160 runs, while her team-mates made none.
Photo: David Warner (Credit: Getty Images)
1/7/2017 • 37 minutes, 40 seconds
The Best of Stumped in 2016
Stumped highlights, from Chris Gayle to spot-fixing, via a blind cricket commentator from Zimbabwe.
Photo: Chris Gayle (Getty Images)
12/31/2016 • 26 minutes, 28 seconds
Stumped End of Year Quiz
Stumped presenters Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma go head to head in a festive cricket quiz, hosted by Kevin Howells.
Photo: Shane Warne (Getty Images)
12/24/2016 • 26 minutes, 28 seconds
Why Are Bowlers Always Injured?
Hear a radical new theory about how a 50-year-old rule change may have caused more bowler injuries.
Virat Kohli's lifelong coach on his father-son relationship with India's captain.
And the Netherlands set their sights on the big time.
Photo: Mitchell Starc (Getty Images).