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Q: In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, Matt Ellis sits down with esteemed physiotherapist Patrick Farhart, who has worked with some of the most successful cricket teams around the world in a career spanning many years.
The conversation opens with Farhart's journey into cricket, a sport his family initially knew little about. From playing club cricket to an unexpected call-up to the Australian cricket team's 1989 Ashes tour, Farhart shares engaging anecdotes that brilliantly illustrate his passion for both cricket and physiotherapy.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/2495/patrick-farhart-unlocking-peak-performance
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In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, Matt Ellis sits down with esteemed physiotherapist Patrick Farhart, who has worked with some of the most successful cricket teams around the world in ...
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Q: Xara Jetly is a passionate and accomplished cricketer who is making waves in professional women's cricket. At just 22 years old, Xara has already established herself as a key player for Wellington and has experience playing in the UK to hone her skills further. Known for her extraordinary fielding abilities and unique approach to the game, she aims to revolutionise women's cricket while inspiring younger generations. Xara is a digital marketing professional and an emerging social media influencer dedicated to engaging and inspiring her followers with authentic content.
In this engaging episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis welcomes the dynamic Xara Jetly.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/2236/xara-jetly-the-x-factor
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Xara Jetly is a passionate and accomplished cricketer who is making waves in professional women's cricket. At just 22 years old, Xara has already established h ...
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Q: As the bowler moves in from the top of his mark, I focus on the 156g red projectile in his right hand. Fingers evenly spaced on either side of the seam as he prepares to send down another thunderbolt.
Keeping my mind clear is the Ronan Keating song I have jammed in my head.
"The smile on your face let's me know that you need me,"
It is all so calm and peaceful as the bowler drops it short
"There's a truth in your eyes saying you'll never leave me"
I instinctively transfer my weight onto the back foot and cut the ball
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/2211/batting-to-the-beat-how-ronan-keating-helped-me-to-score-runs
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This image, which was originally posted to ...
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Q: Richard Chee Quee, often remembered as a trailblazer in Australian cricket, carved a unique career on the field with his distinctive flair and talent. Chee Quee gained recognition playing first-class cricket as an opening batsman for New South Wales from the early 1990s. Celebrated for his vivacious playing style and impressive performances, including a noteworthy century against the West Indies in Newcastle and match winning hundred in the 1993/4 Mercantile Mutual Cup Final against WA at the SCG. Chee Quee has been equally impactful off the field, inspiring many multi cultural kids to play and love the game. His passion for life continues showcasing his artistic side as the frontman of the band ‘Six & Out’, further cementing his reputation as a versatile entertainer.
In this captivating episode of the Cricket Library podcast, host Matt Ellis welcomes the former New South Wales cricketer to reflect upon his unique cricketing journey. The conversation promises an intimate exploration of Chee Quee’s early fondness for the sport, shaped by iconic West Indies teams and rugged backyard matches with his brother Michael.
Delving deep into the narrative of Richard Chee Quee’s foray into cricket, the episode recounts nostalgic tales of his initiation into organised cricket and the eventual progression onto the first-class stage with New South Wales. Discussions resonate with recounting his remarkable performances, key influences that shaped his career, and his present-day passions beyond the field.
The episode unearths the significance of heritage, brotherhood, and personal growth that extended from the green expanses of cricket grounds to the lively setting of music stages. The shared moments with his brother, the identification with the West Indies, and confronting adversity both on the field and through societal biases have shaped a multifaceted life. The insights gained from Chee Quee’s reflections reveal a universal truth: our beginnings often shape our paths, but our choices make the story. Through it all, Richard’s constant has been entertaining and uniting people, whether through sport or music, leaving an indelible mark not only in the archives of cricket but also in the hearts of music enthusiasts.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/2203/richard-chee-quee-breaking-barriers-and-inspiring-change
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Richard Chee Quee, often remembered as a trailblazer in Australian cricket, carved a unique career on the field with his distinctive flair and talent. Chee Quee gained recognition playing first-cla ...
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Q: Shane Jurgensen, former First-Class cricketer, and current head coach of the Wellington Firebirds, shares his journey in cricket and coaching with Matt Ellis on the Cricket Library podcast.
From his early days surrounded by cricket to playing for Queensland, Western Australia, and Tasmania, Jurgensen discusses the challenges and successes he faced. He also delves into his coaching philosophy, emphasising the importance of empathy and building genuine relationships with players.
Jurgensen reflects on his time with the New Zealand Black Caps and their journey to winning the World Test Championship. He also introduces his new project aimed at helping cricketers of all levels improve their skills and prevent injuries.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/2195/shane-jurgensen-journeyman-the-cricket-library-podcast
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Shane Jurgensen, former First-Class cricketer, and current head coach of the Wellington Firebirds, shares his journey in cricket and coaching with Matt Ellis on the Cricket Library podcast.F ...
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Q: Ashton Agar is particularly likeable, mainly due to the first impressions rule. How could you not love a guy who played as he did in his Test debut, making 98 batting at number 11? The following year, over 400 baby boys in Australia were named Ashton. It is highly likely that at least some of these children were named after AC Agar.
What does this have to do with Taylor Swift?
How about we think a bit more deeply about this, shall we?
Taylor Alison Swift came into the world in December 1989, and according to the highly reliable Wikipedia profile, the famous American singer-songwriter was named after music legend James Taylor.
I propose another potentially ambitious and less likely argument that TA Swift may have been named after MA Taylor
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/2186/were-taylor-swifts-parents-cricket-fans
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Ashton Agar is particularly likeable, mainly due to the first impressions rule. How could you not love a guy who played as he did in his Test debut, making 98 batting at number 11? The following ye ...
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Q: Step into the world of Courtney Sippel, a rising star from Country Queensland, leaving her mark with the Brisbane Heat in the WBBL and Queensland in the WNCL.
Delve deep with us as Courtney reveals the genesis of her cricketing passion, the relentless dedication it takes to secure a place in the QLD squad, her nuanced bowling strategies throughout the game, her journey to representing Australia A, and, of course, the dream lineup she'd pick for her ultimate cricket net session.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/2183/courtney-sippel-bringing-the-heat
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Step into the world of Courtney Sippel, a rising star from Country Queensland, leaving her mark with the Brisbane Heat in the WBBL and Queensland in the WNCL.Delve deep with us as Courtney r ...
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Q: Sir Donald Bradman is a cricketing legend who has fascinated me for years. Today, April 30th, holds special significance for him personally and professionally. It's great to reflect on his life and career, and I had the pleasure of sharing some insights on ABC Radio a few years ago. Check out this link to learn more about the milestones achieved on this special day for Bradman
https://thecricketlibrary.com/2023/04/30/double-the-celebrations-for-bradman-on-his-sixth-wedding-anniversary
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Q: Kepler Wessels has the distinction of representing both Australia and South Africa in International Cricket.
In this edition of the Cricket Library Podcast, Kepler Wessels joins host Matt Ellis to share his reflections on the origins of his passion for cricket, breaking into First Class Cricket at age 16 whilst still at school, moving to England and the influence of Tony Greig in getting him to Australia to play World Series Cricket.
We hear about Kepler's test debut, where he made a big hundred, and we clear up who was to blame for the run-out of Greg Chappell in that innings.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/2090/kepler-wessels-special-guest-of-the-cricket-library-podcast
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Kepler Wessels has the distinction of representing both Australia and South Africa in International Cricket.In this edition of the Cricket Library Podcast, Kepler Wessels joins host Matt Ell ...
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Q: Surbhi Vaid is a young broadcaster on the rise, having impressed as an on-air talent in the IPL and WPL.
She sits down with Matt Ellis to share the origins of her passion for cricket, embracing the nerves that come with being on camera, working with Aussie legend Brett Lee, the positive impact of the WPL and of course Surbhi will reveal the three people that she would invite to a dream Cricket Net session.
Please remember to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast on your favourite podcast provider and leave a positive review to help us to continue sharing stories that inspire a love of cricket.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/2030/surbhi-vaid-star-on-the-rise
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Surbhi Vaid is a young broadcaster on the rise, having impressed as an on-air talent in the IPL and WPL.She sits down with Matt Ellis to share the origins of her passion for cricket, embraci ...
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Q: Tatenda Taibu had a meteoric rise in the cricket world, making his First Class debut as a 16-year-old and taking on the Zimbabwean captaincy at just 20 years of age.
In this edition of the Cricket Library Podcast, Tatenda takes us back to the origins of his passion for the game, the influence of Andy Flower, Zimbabwe’s memorable T20 win against a star-studded Australian side, some of his individual achievements, leaving the game to pursue his Christian faith, playing in the IPL and what he is up to now.
We of course make sure we ask him who he would invite to his dream cricket net session.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1956/tatenda-taibu-keeping-the-faith
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Tatenda Taibu had a meteoric rise in the cricket world, making his First Class debut as a 16-year-old and taking on the Zimbabwean captaincy at just 20 years of age.In this edition of the Cr ...
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Q: The mood was bubbling with excitement as my family gathered together for a birthday celebration. Family members exchanged stories with an assortment of food and drinks to add to the merriment.
My mood on the other hand was somewhat tense as the Australians had their backs to the wall in the Boxing Day Test Match. I had just turned nine and I had a love of cricket that was deep in my veins, so while the family were outside enjoying the festivities, I found my way inside to witness one of my fondest Boxing Day Test Match memories.
It was 1987 and Michael Roy Whitney was in the middle of the MCG facing the music trying to defy Sir Richard Hadlee from taking the final wicket and win the Test Match for New Zealand. The larger than life fast bowler was not known for heroics with the willow joined Craig McDermott at the crease with the task of seeing out the remaining overs. To add to the challenge, he would be facing the man who would be awarded player of the series and who finished his distinguished career with 431 Test wickets.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1146/23-minutes-that-had-me-hooked-on-cricket-for-life
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Q: Turramurra High School - Undefeated Premiers 1995
Back Row – Mr. Moore, Andrew Wong, Ben Shields, Steve Walters, Stephen Dismorr, Andrew Ellis, Braden Hamilton
Front Row – Nick Smith, Evan Lehepuu, Andrew Johnston. Matt Ellis, John Starling, Kristin Bradfield
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Q: Alan Curr has an adventurous spirit that has taken him to all corners of the globe. In this edition of the Cricket Library Podcast, he shares the origins of his passions for the game, organising a game of cricket on Mt Everest, landing a job with Japan cricket & the emergence of cricket in Japan.
The conversation would not be complete without Alan telling us who he would invite to his dream cricket net session.
Make sure you are following Japan Cricket on all of their social media platforms and read the full story of the cricket games on Mt Everest by getting yourself a copy of the book.
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Alan Curr has an adventurous spirit that has taken him to all corners of the globe. In this edition of the Cricket Library Podcast, he shares the origins of his passions for the game, organising a ...
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Q: Dive into our latest Cricket Library Podcast episode featuring the incredible David Hussey! Join us as we explore the origins of David’s cricketing passions, his breakthrough into the Victorian team, the unforgettable double century against NSW in Newcastle, and the thrill of representing Australia on the international stage. Discover the secrets behind multiple Sheffield Shield triumphs and gain insights into the positive impact of T20 cricket.
In our chat, David opens up about his transition from player to coach, shedding light on the invaluable lessons learned throughout his playing career. His wisdom and experience inspire us as we delve into the highs and lows of a remarkable cricketing journey.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1778/david-hussey-a-life-in-cricket
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Dive into our latest Cricket Library Podcast episode featuring the incredible David Hussey! Join us as we explore the origins of David’s cricketing passions, his breakthrough into the Victorian t ...
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Q: Gregory Stephen Chappell is one of the greats of Australian cricket with his playing record speaking for itself. He has also made a significant impact off the field since calling stumps on his playing career.
In this edition of the Cricket Library Podcast, we hear from Greg about the origins of his passion for the game, breaking into First Class cricket & the crucial batting tip he received from Sir Donald Bradman.
Greg also shares about his epiphany moment sitting in his motel room reflecting on a letter from his father whilst playing against a World XI in Tasmania. His realisation lead to a shift in mindset that was followed by a run of big scores for Australia.
We take a closer look at his 247 not out against NZ in 1974 where he and brother Ian both made centuries in each innings of the game.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1676/the-cricket-library-podcast-baggy-green-251-greg-chappell
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Gregory Stephen Chappell is one of the greats of Australian cricket with his playing record speaking for itself. He has also made a significant impact off the field since calling stumps on his play ...
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Q: Since cricket was first played, people from all around the world have found a plethora of reasons to fall in love with the summer game.
This book is an expression of that love of the game from two of the games most passionate followers, combining reflections from Matt Ellis with accompanying haiku poems from Matt Fiction.
A light and refreshing take on cricket which highlights some of the key moments that inspired a love of a game in the authors as well as the players who continue to ignite the flame that keeps burning brightly.
We trust cricket lovers will resonate with this offering and be inspired to reflect on the place of cricket in their own hearts and minds.
Who knows, you may even be encouraged to pen some haiku poems of your own as an expression of your enduring love of cricket.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/123/for-the-love-of-cricket-matt-ellis
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Q: Join us for the latest edition of the Cricket Library Podcast as Matt Ellis sits down with former West Indies captain Jimmy Adams.
Jimmy shares about his love of the game growing up in rural Jamaica, what wearing the maroon West Indies cap meant to him, the keys to his success with the bat on the sub-continent, scoring a test match double ton against New Zealand, his match-winning marathon 48 not out against Pakistan, the memorable 1999 series against Australia and of course we find out who he would invite to his dream cricket net session.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1395/jimmy-adams-grateful
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Join us for the latest edition of the Cricket Library Podcast as Matt Ellis sits down with former West Indies captain Jimmy Adams.Jimmy shares about his love of the game growing up in rural ...
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Q: Those that know me well, would understand that I am a stickler for the rules and generally ‘swim between the flags’ with my life choices. My decisions were usually based around doing the right thing and keeping others happy.
This theory was severely challenged in February 1992 when it was announced that NSW would be taking on an Australian XI in a 50 over warm up game for the 1992 World Cup that was on the horizon. Going to the game was a magnificent idea, the problem however, it was on a school day…..
Somehow, and it still baffles me that my older brother and I got this one across the line, we convinced my Mother that our time would be better spent at North Sydney Oval than at the school swimming carnival that was scheduled for the same day.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1389/thanks-to-mum-i-got-to-watch-my-heroes
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Those that know me well, would understand that I am a stickler for the rules and generally ‘swim between the flags’ with my life choices. My decisions were usually based around doing the right ...
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Q: Join us for the latest edition of the Cricket Library Podcast as Matt Ellis sits down with Richard McInnes. He shares his remarkable story, from growing up in country Queensland to working with some of Australia’s best male and female cricketers.
Richard gives insights into his time working with John Buchanan and the Australian men’s cricket team, coaching in Bangladesh and as coach of the Australian Women’s cricket team.
He shares how his coaching philosophy evolved and his desire to create environments where his players could get the best out of themselves.
Of course, we ask Richard to give us the names of who is on his list to invite for a dream cricket net session.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1333/richard-mcinnes-all-the-good-stuff-happens-on-the-other-side-of-fear
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Join us for the latest edition of the Cricket Library Podcast as Matt Ellis sits down with Richard McInnes. He shares his remarkable story, from growing up in country Queensland to working with som ...
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Q: Join host Matt Ellis as he sits down with former England captain and all-round great bloke, Adam Hollioake, in this highly anticipated interview.
Get ready to dive deep into Adam’s incredible journey as he shares the origins of his passion for cricket, the unique experience of being born in Australia and playing for England, and the unforgettable moment when he spotted his parents on the big screen at Headingley.
In this engaging conversation, Adam opens up about his approach to captaincy, the profound impact of losing his brother Ben, and the cherished memories they created together.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1260/adam-hollioake-special-guest-on-the-cricket-library-podcast
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Join host Matt Ellis as he sits down with former England captain and all-round great bloke, Adam Hollioake, in this highly anticipated interview.Get ready to dive deep into Adam’s incredib ...
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Q: Who are the captains, coaches and leaders in cricket, sport, business or any field of life you admire and relate to most in terms of their achievements, respect and what they stand for?
If you’d like to mention why, please do.
A: As a kid growing up I loved listening to Richie Benaud and his insights on the game. I have since read a number of his books and find what he has to say about captaincy and leadership resonates with me.
Regarding other codes, Jack Gibson was one of the greats. This for me was my favourite quote from the super coach "Winning starts on Monday, not 10 minutes before the game. It's a confidence all week long, and it's confidence for the month before that. People can't get motivated on a five-minute speech before they run out on the football paddock. It's something you have to wake up with knowing that your preparation is right. Having the confidence that whatever comes up you are ready."
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Q: Baggy Green 377 Adam Dale Special Guest on the Cricket Library Podcast
In the latest episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, Matt Ellis sits down with former QLD and Australian fast bowler Adam Dale.
In this much-anticipated interview, we delve into the origins of his passion for cricket, his journey from Victoria to Queensland, his success at the state level, his time representing Australia, his miracle catch in the Mercantile Mutual Cup and his current work with QLD Cricket.
Get ready for an insightful conversation that covers everything from on-field highs and lows to life after cricket!
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1223/baggy-green-377-adam-dale-special-guest-on-the-cricket-library-podcast
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In the latest episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, Matt Ellis sits down with former QLD and Australian fast bowler Adam Dale.In this much-anticipated interview, we delve into the origins ...
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Q: Michelle Goszko’s Magnificent 204: A Landmark Innings in Women’s Cricket
Michelle Goszko etched her name in the annals of Australian cricket history with an awe-inspiring double century in June 2001. While the cricketing world often recalls Jason Gillespie’s farewell double ton, it is essential to recognise Goszko’s remarkable feat.
Goszko’s incredible innings unfolded over an arduous 395 minutes at the crease against England at Shenley, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Recently, she graciously shared her reflections on this achievement during an interview on the Cricket Library Podcast.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1181/michelle-goszkorsquos-magnificent-204-a-landmark-innings-in-womenrsquos-cricket
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Michelle Goszko etched her name in the annals of Australian cricket history with an awe-inspiring double century in June 2001. While the cricketing world often recalls Jason Gillespie’s farewell ...
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Q: It is Wednesday 5 January 1994 and one of the more memorable SCG Test Matches is in the balance with Australia finishing day four at 4-63 with Allan Border at the crease with Mark Waugh with Fanie De Villiers on a roll having dismissed Slater, Boon, nightwatchman Tim May and opener Mark Taylor in an inspired spell late in the day.
High quality Test Match cricket was unfolding before our eyes in a low scoring game that could still go either way with Australia chasing the target of 117. Things were tense, AB was coming to the close of his career, and in fact this is the last time I would see him bat live. He had made 49 in the first innings before he was out caught behind off the bowling of De Villiers.
These facts all fade into the background for me however, with the highlight of the test match coming for me after stumps on day four when my brother and I were milling around
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1176/allan-border-ndash-the-day-i-carried-his-bags-to-the-bus
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It is Wednesday 5 January 1994 and one of the more memorable SCG Test Matches is in the balance with Australia finishing day four at 4-63 with Allan Border at the crease with Mark Waugh with Fanie ...
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Q: Tim Macdonald: From Player to Mentor
Welcome to the latest edition of the Cricket Library Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Tim Macdonald who has forged a career that spans across various roles in the sport.
Join us as we delve into Tim's passion for cricket, tracing back to the early days and the driving forces that ignited his love for the game. We explore the pivotal moments that led to his breakthrough into First-Class Cricket, the challenges faced, and the triumphs celebrated along the way.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1149/tim-macdonald-from-player-to-mentor
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Welcome to the latest edition of the Cricket Library Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Tim Macdonald who has forged a career that spans across various roles in the sport.Join us as ...
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Q: The mood was bubbling with excitement as my family gathered together for a birthday celebration. Family members exchanged stories with an assortment of food and drinks to add to the merriment.
My mood on the other hand was somewhat tense as the Australians had their backs to the wall in the Boxing Day Test Match. I had just turned nine and I had a love of cricket that was deep in my veins, so while the family were outside enjoying the festivities, I found my way inside to witness one of my fondest Boxing Day Test Match memories.
It was 1987 and Michael Roy Whitney was in the middle of the MCG facing the music trying to defy Sir Richard Hadlee from taking the final wicket and win the Test Match for New Zealand.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1146/23-minutes-that-had-me-hooked-on-cricket-for-life
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The mood was bubbling with excitement as my family gathered together for a birthday celebration. Family members exchanged stories with an assortment of food and drinks to add to the merriment. ...
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Q: Remembering Riding Mill Cricket Club's Historic Dice Cricket Virtual Tour of Australia
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, when cricket around the world was put on hold, a group of cricket-starved Englishmen and enthusiastic Australian cricketers decided to answer the call for the game to be played. Riding Mill Cricket Club, an English cricket team, embarked on a unique virtual tour of Australia in 2020, bringing the excitement of cricket to life through dice cricket. Led by Matt Ellis, the Australian tour coordinator from the Cricket Library podcast, the Riding Mill Cricket Club’s dice cricket tour brought together players and fans from different corners of the world. This article delves into the concept of dice cricket, the historic virtual tour, and the impact it had on the participating teams.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1145/remembering-riding-mill-cricket-clubs-historic-dice-cricket-virtual-tour-of-australia
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In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, when cricket around the world was put on hold, a group of cricket-starved Englishmen and enthusiastic Australian cricketers decided to answer the call for the ...
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Q: Bluey's cricket episode perfectly encapsulates the meaning of the game
Backyard cricket takes centre stage in the latest episode of Bluey, Cricket, which you can watch on iView now.
The episode focuses on one of Bluey's friends, Rusty, who we're told "loves cricket".
That love of the game is shown by him playing at every possible opportunity: With his brothers in their backyard, with his brother's mates "with a real cricket ball" in the park and, when they're not available, by knocking a tennis ball against the wall by himself.
He even sleeps with a cricket bat by his bed.
Essentially, he's a cartoon, Kelpie version of a young Marnus Labuschagne.
Source : ABC iView -
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-06-12/bluey-cricket-episode-encapsulates-the-meaning-of-the-game/102467554
A: Watched this with my daughter last night and it will no doubt be watched again multiple times. Love the part where Rusty practises the cut shot to ensure he does not hit it into the kitchen where his mother is doing the dishes. Backyard configurations have shaped the shot selection of youngsters learning the game for generations. Must watch tv this one!
CricConnect Fans
last year
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Q: Growing up in Armidale Northern NSW in the 1970s I was like many youngsters playing backyard cricket at every opportunity and emulating my cricket heroes Ian and Greg Chappell, Rod Marsh, and Dennis Lillee.
In January 1980 at the age of 12 I was on a family holiday in Sydney and dad, and I went to the SCG to watch Australia and England in our first day night 50 over game. We sat high up in the old Sheridan Stand.
Australia batted first and scored 163. Under lights Dennis Lillee bowled first change after Jeff Thomson and Geoff Dymock and the England openers put on around 30 when Lilee came on the bowl.
He took 3 quick wickets and looking back at the old scorecard England had lost 3 for 9 and were 3 for 40 and then 4 for 51.
The crowd was going crazy chanting the famous "Lillee, Lillee, Lillee.." and he ended up taking 4 for 12 off his 10 overs before England scrapped home 8 down for 164 off 48.5 overs.
It was an incredible first up experience. I loved it.
Fast forward 12 or so years later and Lillee was doing one of his fast bowling clinics for young NSW fast bowlers at the SCG.
As a wicket keeper batter in Sydney Grade Cricket, I was invited to come along and after having a hit in the nets the fast bowlers ventured out for a centre wicket session. I did some keeping for an hour or so and then had an opportunity for another hit.
Lillee was working with the fast bowling group and after a couple of minutes batting he must've wanted to show them something and to my surprise grabbed a ball (he must’ve been 43/44 years of age), stood at the top of his mark and started running in to bowl.
It was a strange sensation. All of a sudden here I was facing up to a childhood hero bowling from the same end he was back in 1980 when the entire crowd was chanting “Lillee, Lillee, Lillee”. So surreal
A: Love this so much Paul!
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Q: In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with renowned cricket umpire Peter Parker. Peter shares his journey from being a talented cricketer to becoming an umpire, the challenges and rewards of being an umpire in the sport he loves, and the thrill of witnessing spin bowling legend Shane Warne in action from the best seat in the house.
Peter also talks about some of the controversies he has been a part of as an umpire and how he dealt with those situations by owning his mistakes and moving forward. He shares insights into the epic One Day International at the SCG when Michael Bevan hit a four off the last ball and how he managed the pressure in that moment.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/1055/the-challenges-and-rewards-of-umpiring-cricket-a-conversation-with-peter-parker
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In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with renowned cricket umpire Peter Parker. Peter shares his journey from being a talented cricketer to becoming an umpire, ...
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Q: The Cricket Library Podcast with Tahlia Wilson: From Backyard to Breakers
Welcome to the latest series of the Cricket Library Podcast with your host, Matt Ellis.
In this episode, Matt sits down with Tahlia Wilson, the talented cricketer from New South Wales. Tahlia shares her inspiring journey from playing cricket in the backyard to being part of the Breakers Squad, scoring her first WNCL Hundred and winning a Big Bash title with the Sydney Thunder.
Tahlia shares her experiences of turning 21 while in the WBBL Bubble and dealing with setbacks in her career. She also talks about how playing hockey has helped her pursue excellence as a cricketer. Tahlia's passion for the game and dedication to improving her skills make for an engaging conversation.
In this podcast, Tahlia selects her three dream net session partners and reveals what makes them the perfect picks. Her insights and anecdotes will entertain you and give you insight into the life of a professional cricketer.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/blog/854/tahlia-wilson-from-backyard-to-breakers
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In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with Jannatul Sumona, one of the rising stars of women's cricket. Jannatul shares her journey from playing street cricket i ...
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Often I am asked what my most memorable moment as a spectator at a cricket match was, and immediately, my mind went to the he ...
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Welcome to the latest series of the Cricket Library Podcast with your host, Matt Ellis.In this episode, Matt sits down with Tahlia Wilson, the talented cricketer from New South Wales. Tahlia ...
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April 30 was a significant date in the life of Donald George Bradman for a number of reasons. Certainly in the realms of his personal life, this day in 1932, marrying Jessie Menzies in Burwood (whi ...
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My favourite quote on coaching was embedded in my mind as a youngster watching the 9 Wide World of Sports Cricket Coaching Video as a kid. I reckon the VHS player needed a good head cleaning after ...
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Over the years, we have asked our guests on the Cricket Library Podcast to share their dream net session with us. This question has produced some fascinating i ...
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Q: Greg Chappell speaks about his revelation that proved to be the turning point of his cricket career. It is a valuable lesson that young players could learn from.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/video/4/greg-chappell-career-turning-point
A: Thanks Paul. We can often complicate cricket and I have found this advice to be some of the best that I pass on to kids all the time when they ask how they can score more runs.
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Q: Greg Chappell speaks about his revelation that proved to be the turning point of his cricket career. It is a valuable lesson that young players could learn from.
https://www.cricconnect.com/profile/182/matt-ellis/video/4/greg-chappell-career-turning-point
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Q: Most young batters in our club bat well for 30 to 50 balls but then start to play across the line and get themselves out. What advice or strategy can we offer to help them bat longer.
A: This is a really good question, Kevin. I use the philosophy of every ball being an event. So if we are playing a 40 over game it is essentially 240 mini games that are carried out individually. Helping the players to have the mindset of only needing to focus on one ball at a time sounds simplistic but I think when players are able to master this mindset, they will start to bat for longer periods and by nature make more runs. I hope this is helpful.
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Back Row – Mr. Moore, Andrew Wong, Ben Shields, Steve Walters, Stephen Dismorr, Andrew Ellis, Braden HamiltonFront Row – Nick Smith, Evan Lehepuu, Andrew Johnston. Matt Ellis, John Starl ...
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Q: When a fast bowler is running into bowl should the batter be watching the bowler run in and then focusing on their hand and ball as they release the ball or should they be watching the ball in the bowlers hand the whole time they are running in as well?
A: I like switching off between deliveries when the ball is dead to conserve mental energy. My approach is to lock my eyes on the ball in the bowler's hand when they are at the top of their run-up and focus on it as they run in to deliver the ball. When I am doing this well, I tend to score runs more often than not.
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Since cricket was first played, people from all around the world have found a plethora of reasons to fall in love with the summer game. ...
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Q: I was just wondering if you have any tips on how to bat when you’re coming of a few low scores and a bit low on confidence. How you should just go about it?
A: For me, I have often found when I am in a form slump, it is often because I have forgotten the most basic principle of batting which is watching the ball.
It sounds overly simple though often when I have found myself 'out of form' not watching the ball closely is the root of the problem.
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Q: How important is the captain of a team in the development of a young spinner and what advice would you offer the captain?
A: Terry Jenner used to talk about giving young spinners a 'bucket of runs' As an example you say to the bowler you have 40 runs in your bucket and you can keep bowling until the bucket is empty. Often a captain will bowl a spinner two or three overs and take them out of the attack prematurely.
I am going from memory here but I am pretty sure Jason Krejza was something like 0-28 off his first three overs on Test debut. Often captains would pull a spinner off in an instance like this. However, RT Ponting backed his bowler and he found his groove finishing with 8 wickets.
If a bowler knows they are not going to get taken off if they go for runs in their first couple of overs, they are more likely to be relaxed and execute their skills better.
As mentioned by Paul and Rob, the captain plays a big role here.
Peter Fitzgerald
last year
