Menners is joined by Victorian sportswriter Jono Baruch to dissect the fallout from a deeply flawed Boxing Day Test that ended in just two days. While England’s win is acknowledged as legitimate, the focus quickly turns to the pitch, the loss of spectacle, and the wider consequences for Australian cricket. They examine why the MCG surface failed Test cricket, the financial and broadcast impact of short matches, and whether Australia’s push for result wickets has gone too far. The discussion then shifts to the Australian team’s looming transition, including hard questions around Marnus Labuschagne’s form, Usman Khawaja’s future, Cameron Green’s role, and whether Travis Head has finally locked down the opening position. (01:05) England’s Boxing Day win — legitimate result or hollow victory?(05:55) Bazball, bad pitches, and why this Test changed nothing(10:05) Why the MCG pitch became the real story(19:45) Has Australia gone too far with bowler-friendly wickets?(30:10) Australia’s batting concerns: Marnus Labuschagne under pressure(38:40) Khawaja, Green, Head — and what the next Test team might look like Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

England have finally won a Test in Australia — but on Day 2 of the Boxing Day Test, the result is overshadowed by a surface that turned the match into a two-day lottery. This episode breaks down how a disastrous MCG pitch distorted the contest, cost Cricket Australia millions, and robbed fans of what should be a marquee Test match. It covers Australia’s batting collapse, England’s aggressive chase, key moments across both innings, and why this Test may be remembered less for the scoreline and more for the fallout — from pitch preparation failures to the broader consequences for Australian cricket. (1:06) England finally win a Test in Australia — and why it feels hollow (4:03) The MCG pitch disaster and how it shaped the match (7:29) The numbers that show just how extreme this Test was (10:00) Day 2 recap: Australia collapse, England chase 175 Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A jaw-dropping Day 1 at the MCG saw 20 wickets fall in front of a record Boxing Day crowd, with both Australia and England bowled out in a single day on a controversial, grass-laden pitch. Menners breaks down how Australia were skittled for 152, England collapsed for 110 in just 2.5 hours, and why the state of the surface has put Cricket Australia and the MCG under serious scrutiny. From selection calls and captaincy criticism to standout bowling performances and the wider implications for the Test and the series, this is a furious, forensic wrap of one of the wildest opening days in Ashes history. (0:56) Record Boxing Day crowd, 20 wickets fall, and immediate reaction to a surreal opening day (4:14) Pitch controversy: grass length, curator decisions, and why this Test is racing toward an early finish (9:53) Australia bowled out for 152: key dismissals, partnerships, and batting failures (10:44) England implode for 110: selection calls, Bazball criticism, and bowling dominance Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Recorded on Christmas Day, Menners jumps on Cricket Unfiltered to react to a flood of news ahead of the Boxing Day Ashes Test. He breaks down Australia’s likely XI, selection calls around Cameron Green, Usman Khawaja and the bowling attack, and why Steve Smith’s comments on the MCG pitch matter. There’s also a blunt assessment of England’s spiralling tour — from injuries and team changes to the fallout from the Noosa trip — and why Bazball culture and leadership under Stokes and McCullum is being exposed. A sharp, opinionated preview of what’s coming at the MCG, and why Australia head in as overwhelming favourites. (0:00) Christmas Day cricket debate and Boxing Day Test context (2:55) Australia’s XI, Cameron Green’s role, and selection frustrations (7:10) Bowling attack combinations and who misses out (12:40) England’s injury crisis, Noosa fallout, and Bazball leadership questions Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia retain the Ashes in record time and the reaction from England is every bit as messy as their cricket. Menners tears into Ben Stokes, Bazball spin, and the latest round of “moral victory” nonsense, before turning to Australia’s Boxing Day Ashes squad announcement. With injuries to Nathan Lyon and Pat Cummins, the episode breaks down the logic behind the selections, the options for Melbourne, and how Australia might balance their XI at the MCG. There’s also praise for Cummins’ leadership, frustration with Cricket Australia decisions, and a couple of classic “Can’t Let It Go” moments as the Boxing Day Test looms. England’s Ashes meltdown: Stokes, excuses, and moral victories (1:02) Australia announce Boxing Day squad: Lyon out, Murphy in, Cummins sidelined (7:10) MCG XI debate: batting order, Green, Inglis, and bowling balance (14:25) Can’t Let It Go: Day 5 ticketing and the overloaded international calendar (20:55) Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia seal the Ashes in ruthless fashion, wrapping up the 3rd Test on Day 5 to go 3–0 up in just 11 days of cricket. Menners reacts to a dominant Australian performance, dismantling the Bazball narrative as England’s plans unravel once again. Mitchell Starc leads the charge on the final day, Alex Carey is deservedly named Player of the Match, and Australia’s depth and resilience shine despite key injuries. The episode breaks down the decisive moments, England’s tactical failures, Australia’s Ashes-era dominance since 2017, and what lies ahead for both sides as the series moves toward Boxing Day. Key Moments Ashes context, Bazball reckoning, and Australia’s dominance since 2017 (0:51) Day 5 tension, England’s brief resistance, and turning points before lunch (7:25) Starc’s burst, key catches, and the final collapse that seals the Ashes (11:50) Player of the Match, injury fallout, selection questions, and series outlook (21:30) Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia moved to the brink of retaining the Ashes with a dominant Day 4 performance in Adelaide. After setting England a daunting world-record chase, the match swung decisively in the final session as Pat Cummins ripped through the top order before Nathan Lyon produced a spell of elite off-spin to crush England’s resistance. Menners breaks down Travis Head’s commanding 170, key moments in Australia’s batting collapse, England’s brief fightback, and the decisive late wickets that left the visitors staring at defeat, while also calling out England’s leadership and media silence as Bazball continues to unravel. (0:55) Day 4 overview and Australia on the verge of retaining the Ashes (5:00) Travis Head’s 170, Carey’s contribution, and Australia’s late batting collapse (9:45) England’s chase begins: Cummins strikes and Australia dominate the field (14:10) Nathan Lyon’s match-turning spell puts Australia firmly in control Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia take complete control of the Adelaide Test as Travis Head and Alex Carey deliver a defining day with the bat, pushing England to the brink and all but sealing Ashes retention. Head’s commanding century and Carey’s composed support highlight a South Australian masterclass, while England’s tactics — and Bazball philosophy — unravel badly under pressure. With a massive lead, record crowds, and England visibly spent, Australia are firmly on course for a dominant finish. Key Timecodes (0:55) Australia seize control as Head and Carey begin to take the game away from England (6:36) England bowled out: Stokes and Archer resist, but Australia’s attack holds firm (15:00) Travis Head’s century: dropped on 99, then makes England pay in style (18:54) Big picture: Ashes retained, England cooked, and Adelaide sets attendance records Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia tightened their grip on the Ashes on Day 2 in Adelaide as England’s Bazball bravado collapsed once again. After Australia were bowled out for 371, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon returned with venom, ripping through England’s top order on a hot, flat pitch that should have favoured batting. England’s frustrations were compounded by ongoing DRS and Snicko controversies, internal tensions, and another disjointed batting display, leaving them eight wickets down and still trailing heavily. With Cummins’ leadership, Lyon’s milestone moment, and England staring down a likely 3–0 deficit, this Test — and tour — is slipping rapidly out of their control. Key Timecodes (1:25) Australia bowled out for 371 and early assessment of conditions and England’s opportunity (3:30) Cummins and Lyon return, early wickets, and Lyon passes Glenn McGrath (5:00) DRS/Snicko controversy, Carey admission, and England’s legitimate grievances (11:45) England’s collapse before lunch and Cummins’ dominance over Joe Root Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia finish Day 1 of the 3rd Ashes Test eight for 326 after a dramatic opening day in Adelaide, dominated by a superb hometown century from Alex Carey. With Steve Smith ruled out late due to vertigo, Usman Khawaja earns a reprieve and responds with a crucial 82 at number four, while England stay in the contest thanks largely to Australian soft dismissals rather than sustained pressure. Menners and Gav break down the pitch, the key selection calls, England’s bowling, and whether Australia have left runs out there on a surface that may increasingly turn as the Test unfolds. Timecodes (1:20) Carey’s century headlines a chaotic but compelling Day 1 (5:00) Smith ruled out, Khawaja recalled and Australia’s reshuffled top order (12:45) Australia’s soft dismissals keep England alive on a batting-friendly pitch (23:50) Carey’s emotional Ashes ton and what 326 really means heading into Day 2 🌎Get Exclusive NordVPN deal here ↣ ⁠https://nordvpn.com/cricketunfiltered⁠  It’s risk- free with Nord’s 30-day money back guarantee! 👍 Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia surge to a dominant 2–0 Ashes lead, and Menners and Damien break down everything from Hazlewood and Wood being ruled out, to selection headaches, England’s unraveling, and record-breaking TV ratings. They dive into Australia’s bowling depth, the Head/Weatherald opening debate, Baz McCullum’s pressure cooker, and why England’s tour is bordering on farce. The pair also wrap the WBBL finals race, Shield standouts, Australia A’s thrashing of the Lions, and the early buzz around BBL|14 — plus “Can’t Let It Go,” featuring Ricky Ponting’s fiery commentary outburst. (03:55) Hazlewood ruled out; Australia’s selection puzzle for Adelaide (13:22) England fall apart: McCullum backlash & Stokes frustration (26:23) Australia’s Ashes dominance reflected in huge TV numbers (40:00) BBL preview: stars arriving, injuries, and early contenders Cricket notes: 🌎Get Exclusive NordVPN deal here ↣ ⁠https://nordvpn.com/cricketunfiltered⁠  It’s risk- free with Nord’s 30-day money back guarantee! 👍 Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s the day after Australia’s emphatic Ashes victory, and the mood is bright. Menners and Gav Joshi break down how Australia surged to a 2–0 lead with discipline, smarts and big moments—while England unravelled under pressure. They analyse Michael Neser’s dream Test, Alex Carey’s world-class keeping, Smith’s stunning catch, and the impact of Australia’s bold new batting lineup. The duo also dissect England’s poor preparation, internal tension between Stokes, McCullum and senior players, and the technical and mental failings that now have the tourists staring at a potential 5–0. Plus: selection calls ahead of Adelaide, the next steps for Cameron Green, and a thrilling WBBL finish to round out the day after the win. (04:23) England’s embarrassing preparation, fielding chaos & early signs of implosion (10:20) Smith’s miracle catch, Carey’s elite keeping & Australia’s tactical dominance (23:06) Head–Weatherald shine; what’s next for Cameron Green? (32:30) England in crisis: Are we heading toward a 5–0 whitewash? Cricket notes: 🌎Get Exclusive NordVPN deal here ↣ ⁠https://nordvpn.com/cricketunfiltered⁠  It’s risk- free with Nord’s 30-day money back guarantee! 👍 Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia storm to a 2–0 Ashes lead after a dramatic Day 3 at the Gabba. Menners breaks down a dominant all-round performance: Michael Neser’s career-defining five-wicket haul, Steve Smith’s extraordinary match-turning slip catch, Alex Carey’s superb work behind the stumps, and England’s continued struggles under Bazball. From tense morning resistance by Stokes and Jacks to Smith launching the winning six, this episode captures the emotion, momentum swings, and tactical brilliance that delivered Australia a famous Test victory. (00:55) Australia go 2–0 up — Smith’s match-winning six and early reactions (03:40) Neser’s legendary five-for and Australia’s fielding masterclass (06:50) Smith vs Archer: the short-ball battle and the late-match fireworks 🌎Get Exclusive NordVPN deal here ↣ ⁠https://nordvpn.com/cricketunfiltered⁠  It’s risk- free with Nord’s 30-day money back guarantee! 👍 Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia put on a clinic in old-fashioned Test match domination on Day 3 at the Gabba. A patient, grinding batting display — led by Mitchell Starc’s superb 77 — pushed the total to 511 before the bowlers ripped through England under lights. Mental disintegration, tactical brilliance, and relentless pressure defined the day as England collapsed from 1/90 to 6/134, leaving Australia poised for a 2–0 Ashes lead. Timecodes: (02:58) Australia’s lower order grinds England down with vital runs (04:57) England start well… then collapse after tea (10:20) Key wickets: Root, Brook, Smith — Australia take control (14:17) England’s bowlers crumble under the Queensland sun Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia finished Day 2 of the Second Ashes Test in a strong position after racing to 6/378 from just 73 overs, taking a 44-run lead over England. Jake Weatherald set the tone with a vibrant maiden Test fifty, supported by contributions from Labuschagne, Smith, and Green — though none went on to a defining score. England’s wayward bowling and five dropped catches kept Australia surging ahead, while Alex Carey and Michael Neser’s unbeaten stand closed a dominant day. Despite the advantage, Australia missed a chance to fully bury England, leaving the match finely poised heading into Day 3. (1:00) Australia’s innings overview — rapid scoring, early dominance. (9:43) England bowled out; Root stranded as Starc takes six wickets. (17:36) Australia’s run rate explodes; Wetherald and Head shift momentum. (1:03:00) Late-day drops, Carey/Neser partnership, and the state of the match. Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

England recover from early trouble to reach 9/325 on Day 1 of the Gabba day-night Test, driven by a superb unbeaten century from Joe Root (135*) and a relentless spell from Mitchell Starc (6/71). Australia’s selection calls (no Lyon, Cummins rested) and a dramatic final-hour stall become key storylines, while standout fielding moments and some self-inflicted English dismissals shape a seesawing day. The consensus: honours even, on a pitch that promises runs for those who bat well over the next two days. Selection shock & conditions at the Gabba — Australia’s XI explained; Lyon left out, Cummins rested; pitch read and game plan. (2:18) Starc’s opening burst & England’s recovery — Two early blows, then Root–Crawley rebuild. (7:17) Root’s milestone & England’s middle-order misses — Brook and Jacks gift wickets; Root anchors to a first Aussie ton. (18:26) Final-hour chaos & verdict on Day 1 — Archer’s late surge, Australia’s puzzling tactics, and the wrap-up. (23:22) Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the eve of the Second Ashes Test, Cricket Unfiltered breaks down all the chaos, controversy and selection intrigue surrounding Australia and England. Menners and Damian Watson dissect Australia’s secretive team decisions, including Usman Khawaja’s injury, the Travis Head opening experiment, and the possible return of Pat Cummins. England’s turmoil is laid bare — from injuries and questionable selections to ongoing complaints about the pink ball Test. The episode also reflects on Khawaja’s career, covers the latest domestic cricket headlines, and pays tribute to the late Robin Smith. Plus: strong opinions on Bazball, Ben Stokes, WBBL, IPL withdrawals, India’s collapse at home, and why Australia looks set to dominate this Ashes series. (06:10) – Australia’s selection mystery, Head opening and England admitting they were “rattled” (15:00) – Usman Khawaja injury, career reflection and retirement debate (24:50) – England meltdown: Ben Stokes, pink ball complaints & Bazball reality check (33:40) – Tribute to Robin Smith and reflections on his career and legacy 🌎Get Exclusive NordVPN deal here ↣ ⁠https://nordvpn.com/cricketunfiltered⁠  It’s risk- free with Nord’s 30-day money back guarantee! 👍 Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Menners opens the Ashes Mailbag with breaking squad news as Pat Cummins’ fitness clouds the Second Test and Usman Khawaja’s place comes under serious scrutiny. Listener questions drive a wide-ranging episode: from Travis Head’s push to open and why Khawaja is running out of road, to English fan frustration after Perth and a brutal assessment of Bazball’s decision-making. The show also revisits Menners’ infamous 2023 Lord’s rant (and why it’s been re-released), reflects on Phil Hughes’ legacy, and tackles selection debates around Michael Neser, Matt Renshaw, and Mitch Marsh’s fading Test role. A candid, fiery, and deeply cricket-obsessed mailbag. (00:51) Ashes Mailbag begins: Cummins’ Second Test status & Khawaja under pressure(06:07) Mentions from rival pods + why the 2023 Lord’s rant is back(14:16) Phil Hughes: legacy, responsibility, and the opener Australia never had(17:10) English fans unload: Perth fallout & Bazball questioned Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this rapid-fire Ashes debrief, Menners is joined by journalist and author Tim Wigmore to unpack one of the most chaotic and unprecedented first Tests in Ashes history. They explore England’s collapse, Travis Head’s extraordinary fourth-innings burst, Mitchell Starc’s growing legacy as a great left-arm quick, and the rising scrutiny on Bazball after another high-profile stumble. The pair also look ahead to a pivotal pink-ball Test, discuss selection dilemmas for both sides, and assess the mood in England after a bruising start. (1:54) – Why this was one of the strangest and most chaotic Ashes Tests ever (3:28) – Travis Head’s blistering innings and how he dismantled England (10:37) – Where Mitchell Starc ranks among the great left-arm fast bowlers (12:47) – The backlash in England and rising doubts around Bazball Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Australia’s furious two-day demolition of England in Perth leaves the Ashes opener as one of the most remarkable Tests in modern history. Menners breaks down the carnage: Travis Head’s breathtaking fourth-innings century, Mitchell Starc’s 10-wicket masterpiece, Scott Boland’s match-turning spell, and the tactical blunders that left Bazball shattered. He also digs into selection debates, Khawaja’s future, the rise of Head as a long-term opener, England’s refusal to play a pink-ball warm-up, and whether ultra-short Tests are good for the game. A fiery, emotional, and statistic-packed episode that captures the chaos and beauty of a historic Ashes clash. (0:57) – Opening reflections: revenge for 2023, Perth chaos, and a two-day Test for the ages (7:50) – Travis Head’s innings and the opener debate: why he should be Player of the Match (14:09) – Stark’s 10-wicket haul, Langer’s influence, and Boland’s crucial spell (22:40) – England fallout: Bazball exposed, preparation failures, and concerns for the series Cricket Unfiltered Merchandise is Here! We’ve launched our official Cricket Unfiltered merch store thanks to a brilliant partnership with Exactamundo, a longtime supporter of the show. 🛒 Shop now:https://www.chickensaltoftheearth.com/shop/category/Cricket-Unfiltered?c=5469591 🎁 Use Promo Code: CU10 for 10% off your first order! From caps to tees, rep your love of cricket with some top-quality gear. Exactamundo is a video, animation, design and content production company. They produce digital signage, on-screen graphics, sideline animations and videos for sports teams like the Central Coast Mariners in the A-League, Manly Sea Eagles in the NRL and numerous American NBA, NFL and MLB teams.  They also create high quality videos and animations for the corporate world, such as product promos and explainer videos. Check them out at exactamundo.com.au Get the inserted AD’s FREE VERSION of the show on our Patreon Page Subscribe to our YouTube page for live streams: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk7koDKpKxe0e3yC7NXQx6Q Linktree for listening on podcast apps and finding us on social media: https://linktr.ee/cricketunfiltered Show twitter: https://twitter.com/auscricketpod Menners on twitter:  https://twitter.com/amenners TIKTOK: @cricketunfiltered Sponsorship enquiries for host read ads: andrew@piccolopodcasts.com.au Email the show your cricket takes: cricketunfilteredpodcast@gmail.com Piccolo Podcasts: https://piccolopodcasts.com.au/ Founder Andrew Menczel. The first episode aired August 2013.  It is a multi award-winning podcast team, the show has featured 15 Australian captains and some of the greatest legends of cricket and an episode is archived in the Australian National Film and Sound Archive. Menners is an accredited cricket journalist and commentator and his interview with Alex Blackwell won a Cricket NSW Media Award. The show was the first ever regular weekly Australian cricket podcast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices