Stumped

West Indies fast bowling legend Ian Bishop tells Stumped that Sir Garfield Sobers transcended the game and stands alongside sporting icons like Pele, Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods. Sir Gary died at the age of 89 and was regarded as one of the sport’s greatest ever players. Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss his legacy and share their memories of meeting him.Plus - would you like to see a one-off Test match between England and Australia in India? Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg says the two oldest rivals in the sport could possibly play each other in the sub-continent. The Stumped team share their thoughts on the idea.Photo:Former West Indies cricketer Sir Garfield Sobers during net practice at Kensington Oval on January 19, 2019 in Bridgetown, Barbados. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Premier League winner Christian Fuchs tells Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma about his new love for cricket, hitting sixes into the river Derwent and sledging. The former Leicester City and Austria defender has signed up for his village team Grindleford CC in Derbyshire and is enjoying the switch to a new sport.Is the "Bazball" era coming to an end as Brendon McCullum is sacked as England men’s Test coach? He's apologised for results under his leadership but will remain in charge of the white ball sides till the end of next year's 50-over World Cup. The trio discuss the potential contenders to take over the role.And some good news for Afghanistan women's refugee cricketers who have had their funding extended by the ICC. It’s hoped the support will help the team towards development for ICC qualification events by 2030. Clare Connor, the Managing Director of England Women, tells Stumped what this means for the team.Photo:Christian Fuchs of Leicester City kisses the Premier League Trophy as players and staffs celebrate the season champions after the Barclays Premier League match between Leicester City and Everton at The King Power Stadium on May 7, 2016 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Credit: Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has set another record by becoming the youngest ever player to play for India. He was just 15 years and 99 days old when he took to the field in India's second T20 of their ongoing series against England, breaking the long held record of Sachin Tendulkar, who made his debut in a Test against Pakistan aged 16 years and 205 days in 1989. Alison Mitchell, Sunil Gupta and Brett Sprigg discuss whether he’s living up to the hype.Australia won their record extending seventh Women’s T20 World Cup, beating England at Lord’s by 7 wickets. The tournament was the biggest to date with 12 teams competing. The trio reflect on the competition and ask what makes the Aussies so good?Plus, history is being made at Lord’s as it hosts its first every Women’s Test match between England and India. Fast bowler Lauren Filer tells us what the occasion means for the women’s game.Photo: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi of India during the 2nd Vitality IT20 match between England and India at Emirates Old Trafford on July 04, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Credit: Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)

Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss what’s next for England’s Test team following Ben Stokes shock retirement. Who will take the armband, how will Stokes international career be remembered and is it the end for ‘Bazball’?Making it as a professional in one sport is impressive enough but to do it in two is pretty special! That's exactly what 2019 World Cup winner Liam Plunkett has done after he made his pro debut in Baseball for the Oakland Ballers. Known for his fast bowling, Liam tells Stumped about his curve ball a strike out in his first game!Plus, we hear from former Ireland captain Alan Lewis about a historic weekend for Irish cricket as the men beat India 2-0 for the first time in a T20 series and the women, led by Alan’s daughter Gaby, registered their first ever Women’s T20 World Cup victory.Photo: Ben Stokes, captain of England, leaves the field at the tea interval, having announced his retirement from international cricket at the end of the current Test Match during day four of the 3rd Rothesay Test Match between England and New Zealand at Trent Bridge on June 28, 2026 in Nottingham, England. (Credit: Getty Images)

India legend Ravichandran Ashwin tells Stumped about his life in the US playing franchise cricket for the San Francisco Unicorns in Major League Cricket. He discusses his coaching ambitions, whether the 50-over game has a future, and endorses the idea of cricket having a Champions League style tournament. He also says teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is “special” and believes he should enjoy his cricket.Nikesh Rughani, Charu Sharma and Brett Sprigg are also joined by Tooba Sarwari, from the Afghan Women’s refugee cricket team who are currently touring England. She tells us what it was like meeting King Charles, how playing cricket has saved her life and about her hopes for the future.Photo: India's Ravichandran Ashwin waves to the crowd during the first day of the first Test cricket match between India and Bangladesh at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on September 19, 2024. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

Bangladesh created history by securing their first-ever ODI series victory over Australia, winning the recent three-match contest 2-1. The reigning world champions found themselves on the wrong side of the record books and have now lost four of their last five ODI series. Nikesh Rughani, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta discuss if Australia can fix their problems ahead next year’s Cricket World Cup.The influence of the new ownership groups in the Hundred is already being felt, with team rebrands as the competition heads into its sixth season. We hear from MI London's’ Nathan Sowter, who has become a short-format specialist, about how the tournament is evolving and what fans can expect this year.Plus, It was a memorable weekend in the England’s Dorset League as former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara turned out for his local club and smashed a match winning 168 from just 117 balls. We speak to one of his teammates, who tells Stumped he was “coaching” the legendary left-hander through the innings.Photo: Bangladesh's players celebrate after the dismissal of Australia's Marnus Labuschagne during the first one-day international (ODI) cricket match between Bangladesh and Australia at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

Eleanor Oldroyd, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss what’s next for Ben Stokes and England?Joe Root has replaced Ben Stokes as interim captain for the second Test against New Zealand after Stokes and Gus Atkinson were both dropped following an incident in a London nightclub. The team discuss if curfews work, the return of Root as captain and what the future could hold for Stokes?The biggest ever Women's T20 World Cup is here and we’re joined by Cricket broadcaster Annesha Ghosh to discuss if India could win the tournament for the first time?Plus, Dr Raf Nicholson joins us to discuss her new book, The Women in Whites, which takes a closer look at the origins of the women's game in England, from the 18th century through to the present day.Photo: Ben Stokes of England looks on after the First Test between England and New Zealand at Lord's Cricket Ground (Credit: Philip Brown/Getty Images)

Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss whether Virat Kohli and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are building an IPL dynasty after securing back-to-back titles. The president of France Cricket, Prebou Balane, joins us after 31 men and women connected with the development of the women’s game in France wrote an Open Letter calling for change.Plus, South Africa's Tazmin Brits reveals her Olympic dream ahead of the Women's T20 World Cup.Photo: Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s Virat Kohli celebrates with teammates after winning the Indian Premier League (Credit: Reuters)

The Afghanistan Women’s Refugee team are heading to England for a development tour during the Women’s World Cup. The England and Wales cricket board Deputy CEO and Managing Director of England Women, Clare Connor, tells Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma how the tour came about and discusses future funding of the team.With the start of the T20 World Cup just days away, the team hear more about the preparation of the host country, England. Captain, Nat Sciver-Brunt, who’s been recovering from a calf injury in the build-up to the tournament, joins the show.Plus, have Surrey County Cricket Club found the perfect way to banish those summer workday blues? With the club pondering whether The Oval was the "best home office in the country", the team discuss which cricket ground could be the best home office away from home.Photo: Afghanistan Women's XI players huddle before the cricket match between Afghanistan Women's XI and Cricket Without Borders XI at Junction Oval in Melbourne on January 30, 2025. Hundreds of women athletes fled Afghanistan as the Taliban took over in August 2021, escaping a hardline stance that essentially banned women's sport and education. Most of the national women's cricket side settled as refugees in Australia, where they reunited for the first time to play a charity match in Melbourne. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

Has Virat Kohli earned the right to decide when he calls time on his international career? Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss whether the 37-year-old needs to prove his worth to India’s selectors ahead of the 2027 World Cup. Kohli recently suggested he may not play if he needs to prove himself.The Women’s T20 World Cup is just around the corner and will be bathed in orange, as the Netherlands make their tournament debut. Dutch captain Babette de Leede joins the show and explains how far the side have come since she made her international debut as a 14-year-old.Plus, we discuss the rise of the Tigers, as Bangladesh created history by sweeping Pakistan in consecutive Test series’.Photo: India's Virat Kohli reacts as he runs between the wickets during the third one-day international (ODI) cricket match between India and New Zealand at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on January 18, 2026. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

On Stumped this week with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma we discuss if IPL investment could be coming to the Big Bash League? It’s an issue that has divided cricket in Australia, but Charu feels Indian investors may not jump at the chance of buying a stake in a franchise.What’s the point of one-off Test matches? We debate the pros and cons of short series after former Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews blasted the potential idea of one-off Tests in the next series of the World Test Championship.And we hear from Brazil pacer Laura Cardoso, who stunned the cricket world with record-breaking T20 international figures of 9 for 4, the best ever in the format. Remarkably, Cardoso says she had no idea she’d made history.Photo: The Scorchers celebrate with the trophy after victory in the Men's Big Bash League Final match between the Perth Scorchers and the Brisbane Heat at Optus Stadium on February 04, 2023 in Perth, Australia. (Credit: Cricket Australia via Getty Images)

New Zealand’s Suzie Bates will retire from international cricket after this summer’s Women's T20 World Cup. It marks the end of an illustrious 20-year career and many records to be proud of. Suzie tells the podcast it was a difficult decision but feels it’s the right time and believes the future is bright for the White Ferns with the next generation of players. Plus, Peshawar Zalmi beat Hyderabad Kingsmen by five wickets to win the 2026 PSL final in Lahore. Australian all-rounder Aaron Hardie starred with bat and ball to register the franchise’s second title in nine years. Cricket broadcaster Zainab Abbas joins Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma to reflect on the tournament in the impact of Babar Azam. Photo: Suzie Bates of New Zealand reacts after the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Final 2024 match between South Africa and New Zealand at Dubai International Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Credit: ICC via Getty Images)

The Women’s T20 World Cup starts in June and England have included uncapped 18-year-old left arm spinner Tilly Corteen-Coleman in their squad. The teenager impressed in the recent intra-squad matches in South Africa. Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss her selection ahead of the tournament. Kolkata Knight Riders chief executive Venky Mysore says the new Olympic stadium in LA has the potential to host IPL exhibition matches. The venue, in the southern Californian city of Pomona, will become the home of the new franchise Los Angeles Knight Riders and will also host Major League Cricket matches. And we hear from award winning photographer Gareth Copley- Jones about his new book ‘A Picture of England’ where he’s followed the England men’s cricket team through his lens. Photo: Tilly Corteen-Coleman of Surrey poses for a portrait during the Surrey CCC photocall at The Kia Oval on March 21, 2025 in London, England. (Credit: Getty Images)

Just weeks after they were brought in, the new rules allowing replacement players in England's County Championship could be changed at the end of the first block of fixtures. Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma discuss how using substitutes in Australian, Indian and English domestic cricket is working and debate the merits of introducing them to international cricket. The team also reflect on Smriti Mandhana becoming India's highest run scorer in International T20s. Plus. we find out more about how the ICC is developing cricket across Europe. Esther de Lange, ICC European Development Officer, joins the team along with Scotland's Nayma Sheikh, who played in the recent ICC Europe XI v MCC at Lord’s. Photo: Jonny Bairstow of Yorkshire receives medical attention during Day Four of the Rothesay County Championship Division One match between Somerset and Yorkshire at The Cooper Associates County Ground on September 11, 2025 in Taunton, England (Credit: Getty Images)

Praful Hinge made history on his debut by taking three wickets in his very first over. The seamers’ haul included dismissing teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi for a first-ball duck. Nikesh Rughani, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta examine his impact in the league. It's a tradition dating back over 150 years: the latest edition of the little yellow book, the 2026 Wisden Almanack is out. Editor Lawrence Booth joins the team to discuss the five cricketers of the year. And with the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup less than two months away, Australian selector Shawn Flegler admits Sophie Molineux's captaincy may need to be reconsidered if her injury problems continue. Photo: Sunrisers Hyderabad's Praful Hinge celebrates the wicket of Rajasthan Royals' Dhruv Jurel with teammates (Credit: REUTERS/Stringer)

Essex and South Africa all-rounder Wiaan Mulder talks about his life in the County Championship and shares his thoughts on the impact player rule in the Indian Premier League. Nikesh Rughani, Charu Sharma and Jim Maxwell also ask him about his famous 367 declaration to protect Brian Lara's 400 runs Test record. There's discussion on pace bowling as Bhuvneshwar Kumar made IPL history by becoming the first fast bowler to take 200 wickets in the competition and James Anderson reached a rare feat in the opening game of the County Championship. He got James Sales out in the opening game of the season, only 21 years ago, he also dismissed his father, David Sales. What's the secret to the pacer's longevity? And the team explores the relationship between cricket and poetry as they find out about the new book, Catching the Light – A New Anthology of Cricket Poetry, which is out this month. Photo: Wiaan Mulder of South Africa celebrates taking the wicket of Travis Head of Australia during day two of the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025 between South Africa and Australia at Lord's Cricket Ground on June 12, 2025 in London, England. (Credit: ICC via Getty Images)

Rajasthan Royals' 15-year-old sensation, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, continues to make a name for himself after hitting a 15-ball half century against the Chennai Super Kings - the third 50-plus score of his short IPL career so far. Alison Mitchell, Clint Wheeldon and Sunil Gupta discuss the impact he's had in a short amount of time. While the IPL is ongoing, so is the PSL in neighbouring Pakistan. Australia's Adam Zampa opted out of the IPL and to play in PSL this season. The team examine whether others could follow the spinners lead.Plus, we head to the land of the rising sun, as the Japan Super League is growing in popularity. We hear from Alan Curr who is Chief Operating Officer for the Japan Cricket Association about the growth of the game in a nation better known for Sumo, cherry blossom and motorsport.Photo: Rajasthan Royals' Vaibhav Suryavanshi warms up before the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) T20 cricket match between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on May 1, 2025. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

The IPL returns for its 19th edition and Royal Challengers Bengaluru start as the defending champions for the first time in their history.Former IPL player and now commentator Abhinav Mukund joins Eleanor Oldroyd, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma to discuss the big IPL talking points ahead of the start of the season.Can RCB win back-to-back titles and should teams expect “a scary version” of Virat Kohli now he goes in as a T20 specialist?Will this be MS Dhoni’s last dance in the IPL? Mukund gives his view as his former team-mate and how he expects Chennai Super Kings to utilise both Dhoni and new signing Sanju Samson.There’s also talk around Cameron Green and whether being the most expensive overseas player in IPL history will add extra pressure on the Australian? Plus, what to expect from teenager Vaibhav Suryavanshi and has Ben Duckett made the right decision to focus on England over the IPL?The Stumped team also reflect on the news England coach Brendon McCullum, Test captain Ben Stokes and director of cricket Rob Key are all remaining in their posts, despite the 4-1 Ashes series defeat. Is it the right decision and how can England “evolve”?Image: Virat Kohli of Royal Challengers Bengaluru lifts the IPL trophy following the trophy presentation in the 2025 IPL Final match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings at Narendra Modi Stadium on June 03, 2025, in Ahmedabad, India. (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

Gary Kirsten has been officially appointed head coach of Sri Lanka's men's national side. He aims to build a winning culture in the build up to the 2027 ODI World Cup. Kirsten famously led India to the 2011 World Cup title and also helped South Africa reach the top of the Test rankings. Kirsten reflects on his short spell coaching Pakistan, gives us his thoughts on whether India can dominate red ball cricket and explains to Alison Mitchell how he previously came close to becoming England head coach.Plus, Alison, Clint Wheeldon and Charu Sharma all discuss a new chapter for Australia's women's team as life after Alyssa Healy begins with their tour to the Caribbean to face West Indies.Photo Credit: Dallas, Texas - JUNE 05: Head coach Gary Kirsten of Pakistan looks on during a net session as part of the ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup West Indies & USA 2024 at Grand Prairie Cricket Stadium on June 05, 2024 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Matt Roberts-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

On this week's Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Clint Wheeldon and Sunil Gupta; after India's men's side banished the ghosts of 2023 and defended their T20 World Cup title on home soil, we look back at a one-sided final and ask whether anyone can match them in white ball cricket?Plus, we hear from Afghanistan cricketer Tooba Khan Sarwari on how life has been over the last 12 months - including that visit to the Women's World Cup in India - and her hopes for the future.Photo: Suryakumar Yadav Captain of India along with the teammates lifts the trophy after winning the ICC Men's T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026 Final between India and New Zealand at Narendra Modi Stadium on March 8, 2026 in Ahmedabad, India. (Credit: MB Media/Getty Images)

The list of players for the Hundred auction, the England and Wales' franchise cricket competition has been confirmed. It features 16 players from Pakistan, 14 men and two women. We hear from Dr Gregory Ioanndis, professor of sports law at Sheffield Hallam University.Alison Mitchell, Aaron Bryans and Charu Sharma all react to New Zealand's stunning performance against South Africa to progress to the T20 World Cup final and we ask what would it mean for the Black Caps if they were to be crowned champions.Plus, the former England fast bowler Saj Mahmood tells us about his new platform in the UK which is aiming to make the game more affordable to youngsters.Photo Credit: Pakistan's Haris Rauf celebrates after taking the wicket of Sri Lanka's Kamindu Mendis during the second one-day international cricket match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi on November 14, 2025. (Photo by Farooq Naeem/AFP via Getty Images)

Australia great Alyssa Healy is playing in her final series before retirement as the blockbuster multi format series between Australia and India continues. One player who is tipped to follow in her footsteps is Australia's Georgia Voll, not only did the 22 year old guide Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the Women's Premier League title but she also made her highest T20 international score of 88 in the second T20 against India. Georgia joins us on the programme. Plus, as the men's T20 World Cup enters the super eight's phase, we discuss South Africa’s statement win over co-hosts and defending champions India and we ask, if that victory could boost The Proteas credentials as one of the title contenders.Photo Credit: Georgia Voll of Australia bats during game two of the Women's T20 International series between Australia and India at Manuka Oval on February 19, 2026 in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Mark Nolan/Getty Images).

On this week’s Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Shara, we assess the opening stages of the T20 World Cup, as the competition heads towards the Super 8's stage. The team discuss the aftermath of the on-off-on India Pakistan game and whether former England captain Michael Atherton’s assessment that the game is now ‘a miserable spectacle’ is a fair comment, plus we discuss the biggest shocks and celebrate the successes of the 'smaller' nations competing.With the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics in full swing, could cricket join the party? The Tallinn Hippos have defended their 'cricket on ice trophy' title in Switzerland's St Mortiz. We speak with their captain Stuart Hook about playing the game on the most unlikely of surfaces, and the cricket scene in Estonia.Plus, could the Big Bash be heading to India? The team discuss the possibility of the competition's opening match heading to the sub-continent.Photo: Players walk out during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026 match between India and Pakistan at R. Premadasa Stadium on February 15, 2026 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. (Credit: ICC via Getty Images)

Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta all build up to the biggest and most lucrative match in cricket. Pakistan against India at the T20 World Cup will go ahead after the Pakistan government ended its order for a boycott.We'll also reflect on one of the most memorable matches in T20 World Cup history. South Africa edged past Afghanistan after not one but two dramatic super overs in Ahmedabad. South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj joins us on the programme to talk us through the drama which saw Keshav take two wickets in the super over.We also hear from bowler Sayali Satghare who went unsold at the Women’s Premier League auction but ended up winning the WPL with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Picture: India v Pakistan - Asia Cup FinalDubai, United Arab Emirates - September 28: Tilak Varma of India bats during the Asia Cup Final match between India and Pakistan at Dubai International Stadium on September 28, 2025 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images).

With the T20 World Cup starting on Saturday 7th February, Pakistan will take part but have refused to play against tournament co-hosts India. We hear from Pakistan cricket journalist Shahid Hashmi on what this means for the global game.And 2025 was a record breaking year for New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy who received his maiden senior World Cup call up and was selected for the upcoming Indian Premier League with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Jacob joins us on the programme.Image - LAHORE, PAKISTAN - JANUARY 31: Players of Pakistan celebrates wicket of Cooper Connolly of Australia during the T20 International match between Pakistan and Australia at Gaddafi Stadium on January 31, 2026 in Lahore, Pakistan. (Photo by Sameer Ali/Getty Images).

Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta are joined by Bangladesh cricket journalist Tawhid Qureshi who reflects on The Tigers decision to withdraw from the tournament after the ICC rejected a request to move their games from India to co-hosts Sri Lanka. Bangladesh had cited safety concerns amid growing tensions between the countries. The ICC refused, saying there was an "absence of any credible security threat". Scotland have replaced Bangladesh so we hear about their preparations from Cricket Scotland CEO Trudy Lindblade.A baggy green cap worn by Don Bradman has been sold for 460,000 Australian dollars. It is the highest price for a cap worn by Bradman. So the team discuss if they have any cricket memorabilia.Photo: Players of Bangladesh cut dejected figures following the ICC Men's T20 Cricket World Cup West Indies & USA 2024 match between South Africa and Bangladesh at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on June 10, 2024 in New York, New York. (Credit: Getty Images)

A new European T20 League has been launched which will be owned by some of the sport's biggest stars. Alison Mitchell, Clint Wheeldon and Charu Sharma are joined by one of the owners, former Australia captain Steve Waugh who tells us why he has decided to get involved in franchise cricket. Plus, the co-founder of the league, Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan says he hopes it will become 'the largest T20 league in the world".The men’s T20 World Cup begins on the 7th of February in Sri Lanka and India with the build up being marred by political tensions and injuries. We assess how the tournament is shaping up and debate if India could defend their title with a very different squad to 2024.Photo: Steve Smith of Australia and Steve Waugh, Former Australian Test Captain and current Australian Team Mentor, pose at stumps after Smith scored his second century for the test during day four of the 1st Specsavers Ashes Test between England and Australia at Edgbaston on August 04, 2019 in Birmingham, England. Steve Smith is the first Australian to score two centuries in the same test in England since Steve Waugh in 1997. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Nikesh Rughani, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta reflect on the career of Australia great Alyssa Healy after she announced that she will retire from all formats of the game in March. We are joined by her former teammate and fellow World Cup winner Elyse Villani who shares what she believes Healy’s legacy is and her captaincy style. Villani also tells us how she transitioned from player to commentator and why she made her decision to retire from playing in the Women's Big Bash League.The fourth edition of the Women’s Premier League is underway, and we have already seen a hattrick and final ball thrillers. We discuss the tournament so far and go behind the scenes with Mumbai Indians player Milly Illingworth. Plus, we celebrate another milestone for India's Virat Kohli and Jim tells us his thoughts on the 150th anniversary Test, which will be a pink ball Test at the MCG.Photo: Alyssa Healy and Elyse Villani of Australia celebrate winning game two of the Women's International Twenty20 series between Australia and New Zealand at Allan Border Field on October 1, 2018 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Chris Hyde/Getty Images)

Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by former Australia cricketer Matthew Hayden for our post-Ashes debrief. He tells us if Travis Head should continue opening for Australia, why Steve Smith is so prolific in the Ashes and if he can see England captain Ben Stokes return to Australia in four years' time. Plus, the fourth season of the Women’s Premier League begins on the 9th January, so we assess how the five teams are shaping up, the impact of the tournament on cricket in India and if Mumbai Indians can win a third title in four years with their new coach Lisa Keightley.Photo: Australian players celebrate with the Ashes Waterford Crystal trophy after winning the Ashes series 4-1 during day five of the Fifth Test in the 2025/26 Ashes Series between Australia and England at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 08, 2026 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Back in September we spoke to 18-year-old Tommy Lamb who was travelling from England to Australia to watch the Ashes without using an aeroplane. He has made it and witnessed the bonkers boxing day Test in Melbourne. He gives us his thoughts on if the 125-day journey was worth it to see a two-day Test match. Australia are 3-1 up in the Ashes, but the final Test in Sydney could be pivotal for both sides in terms of looking to the future. Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma assess what could be the key battles and how significant the final match will be for both sides. And the Stumped team make their New Years resolutions and tell us what aspects of cricket they would like to change.Photo: 18 year old Tommy Lamb travelling from England to Australia. Credit: Tommy Lamb

We look back at the best of Stumped in 2025 which gives you a chance to listen to some of the standout moments from the last twelve months, including our trip to India. We hear from former India captain Anjum Chopra on what it meant to her to witness history being made, when India women won their first ever Cricket World Cup. Plus when Alison Mitchell was in Guwahati, she spoke to the Secretary of the BCCI, Devajit Saikia, who told her how the Women's Premier League has been integral in growing women's cricket in the country.Back in July, cricket was somewhat divided after South Africa's Wiaan Mulder remarkably passed up the opportunity to break Brian Lara's record for the highest individual score in a Test innings. Mulder, captaining South Africa for the first time, was 367 not out at lunch on the second day of the second Test against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo when he declared in their first innings. Mulder was just 33 runs short of Lara’s record 400 that he scored for West Indies against England in Antigua in 2004. Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma debate if Mulder made the correct decision.Former India International Cheteshwar Pujara and his wife Puja Pabari joined the Stumped podcast to share how they navigate life in the public eye. They have written a book and told us how the process came about and reveal what Cheteshwar is like behind closed doors.And we hear from Tommy Lamb who has been travelling from England to Australia for the Ashes without using a plane.Photo: Harmanpreet Kaur of India celebrates after taking the catch to dismiss Nadine De Klerk of South Africa and lead the teams out her team to victory in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup India 2025 Final match between India and South Africa at Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy on November 02, 2025 in Navi Mumbai, India. (Photo by Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

Millions of dollars have been spent as the IPL 2026 mini auction was completed. It was the uncapped Indian players who stole the spotlight with franchises spending large amounts of money on raw potential, so the team debate raw talent versus experience and why all-rounders are so sought after. This comes after Australian Cameron Green has become the most expensive overseas player in the history of the IPL after Kolkata Knight Riders bought the all-rounder for approximately US$2.8 million.The Women’s Big Bash has a new name on the trophy. Hobart Hurricanes are the champions, so we looked back at the tournament as a whole with the ABC’s Brett Sprigg. And with the controversy surrounding Snicko in the Ashes, the team debate whether technology still has a place in modern cricket.Photo: Cameron Green gestures during an IPL match between Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on April 6, 2024. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)Photo:

It is all about the Ashes as Alison Mitchell, Clint Wheeldon and Charu Sharma assess where it went wrong for England in the second Test match at Brisbane and ask how that performance will impact Adelaide and the rest of the series. We are joined by three-time Ashes winner and former England wicketkeeper Matt Prior. He reacts to Brendon McCullum’s comments that England were ‘overprepared’, tells us how the Ashes winning team he was involved in back in 2010/11 prepared and compares the wicketkeeping of Jamie Smith and Alex Carey. He also tells us what the England team will miss the most about Mark Wood after he has been ruled out of the series after a reoccurrence of his knee injury. Plus, we ask what is the best/quirkiest cricket T-shirt? Photo: Matt Prior of England poses with a flag after winning the Ashes series during day five of the Fifth Ashes Test match between Australia and England at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7, 2011 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

With the ongoing day-night Test match between Australia and England, Nikesh Rughani, Clint Wheeldon and Charu Sharma debate the success of the format and ask if it could be seen as a gimmick if more countries don't start playing them? We hear from Aaron Briggs, who is a data analyst for the ECB and did a PHD on the aerodynamics of swing bowling at Cambridge. He tells us what makes the pink balls so different.With the five Women's Premier League teams locked in for the new season, we look at the major signings and snubs at the mega auction and hear the story of Mumbai Indians new signing Millie Illingworth. Plus, with the India and South Africa ODI series level on 1-1, we discuss if Virat Kohli is back to his best after hitting two back to back centuries.Photo: Ollie Pope of England is bowled by Mitchell Starc of Australia during day one of the Second 2025/26 Ashes Series Test Match between Australia and England at The Gabba on December 04, 2025 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

After the first two-day Ashes Test match since 1921 and an Australian victory to leave the hosts 1-0 up in the series, Alison Mitchell, Corbin Middlemas and Charu Sharma are joined by former Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie. He shares where he thinks it went wrong for England, if they should be playing against the President’s XI, if Travis Head should be the new permanent opener for Australia and the proficiency of the hosts in pink ball Tests.Plus, South Africa beat India by 408 runs to win their two match Test series away from home 2-0. It is India’s heaviest loss and Temba Bavuma’s eleventh win out of twelve as captain of the Proteas. Charu Sharma assesses the mood in India and tells us where the future lies for head coach Gautam Gambhir.And India have now won their second cricket World Cup in the space of a month. India cricket journalist Annesha Ghosh tells us more about the inaugural Blind Women’s T20 World Cup and how the victory can change the perception of disability sport in the country.Photo: Travis Head of Australia raises his bat after scoring 100 runs during day two of the First 2025/26 Ashes Series Test Match between Australia and England at Perth Stadium on November 22, 2025 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images) Photo:

We celebrate South Africa’s first Test win in India for 15 years, and Charu Sharma tells us what India will look to do differently to ensure they do not lose the two-Test series. The Ashes is upon us, so Nikesh Rughani and Jim Maxwell discuss how pivotal the first ball of the series can be. We hear from former Australia opener Justin Langer and from England psychologist Gilbert Enoka on its significance. Plus, the Indian Premier League have announced their release and retention lists for next year's tournament. The team discuss the surprises and debate which is tougher – captaining your national side or being the captain in a franchise?Photo - South Africa's captain Temba Bavuma, Marco Jansen and Ryan Rickelton celebrate their team's win at the end of the first Test cricket match between India and South Africa at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on November 16, 2025. (Photo by DIBYANGSHU SARKAR/AFP via Getty Images)

With just one week to go until the Ashes in Australia begins, we hear from England captain Ben Stokes and debate how both teams are shaping up and which team has got their preparation ‘correct’ after all the criticism. Plus, three-time Ashes winner Steven Finn joins Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma to talk about his new book, what this current team can learn from their predecessors and the constant pressure surrounding fast bowlers. And with the format announced for cricket at the Olympics in 2028, we look at the significance of cricket at the Games.Photo: Steven Finn and Graeme Swann of England pose with the Ashes Urn during day five of the Fifth Ashes Test match between Australia and England at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 7, 2011 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Tom Shaw/Getty Images)

Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are celebrating India women’s first ever World Cup victory! Former India women’s captain Anjum Chopra tells us how she felt at the winning moment, what it was like to be in the commentary box and what it means to all the former players who have paved the way. We also hear from Radha Gupta who is a member of the Bucket Hat Cult who are a loud and proud supporters’ group of India women’s cricket. She says being at the DY Patil stadium in Mumbai and witnessing the win was the ‘top moment of her life’. Plus she tells us what she hopes the win can do for women’s cricket in India.And the team look at where it went wrong for South Africa in the final.Photo: Harmanpreet Kaur of India lifts the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup trophy after her team's victory in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup India 2025 Final match between India and South Africa at Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy on November 02, 2025 in Navi Mumbai, India. (Photo by Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)

Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by New Zealand captain Sophie Devine who has just retired from ODI’s following the White Ferns exit from the Women’s World Cup. She looks back on her career, tells us about her experience of this World Cup and what is next for her.India have made it to the semi-finals of a home World Cup, so we ask if their success is down to the Women’s Premier League and hear from Gujarat player Sayali Satghare on how the WPL helped her earn her maiden cap for India.Plus with the Ashes around the corner we hear from Australia fast bowler Ryan Harris on the fitness of Pat Cummins and the other bowling options in the Aussie team.Photo: Sophie Devine, Captain of New Zealand pictured ahead of the coin toss ahead of the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup India 2025 match between England and New Zealand at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium on October 26, 2025 in Visakhapatnam, India. (Photo by Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

On this week's Stumped, with Alison Mitchell, Matt Clinch and Charu Sharma, we take a closer look at how climate change affects cricket. England batter Maia Bouchier tells us about the physical and mental effects of extreme heat; that's after she contributed to a recent report which warns that players at all levels of the game across the globe are being placed at increasing risk due to playing in extreme conditions. They discuss the latest from the Women's World Cup and ask what can be done to mitigate the weather after a number of games were washed out in Sri Lanka.We hear from UP Warriorz and India player Saima Thakor and find out how getting off the bus at the wrong stop helped catapult her into an international cricket career.Plus, the team chat about their favourite pieces of cricket memorabilia after Lord's announced that it was making sections of the outfield available for sale ahead of ground renovations.Photo: New Zealand's Brooke Halliday cools off herself during a drinks break in the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2025 match between Bangladesh and New Zealand at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on October 10, 2025. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

On this week's Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta, we hear more about how India's captain Harmanpreet Kaur began her cricketing journey. Kaur was born in Moga, in the north of India and was coached by Kamaldeesh Singh Sodhi. His son Yadwinder, who also coached her, explains how his father first spotted her talent, and how she's grown into a player to step up for her team, most notably after scoring 171 against Australia in the 2017 World Cup.The women's world cup is really heating up with matches going down to the wire and the pressure becoming more intense. Hosts India have gone from the highs of beating Sri Lanka and Pakistan to losing against South Africa and tournament favourites Australia. The team discuss the state of play as the group stage draws ever closer to the end.Plus, we hear from 2017 India World Cup finalist Punam Raut, who told us that despite losing the 2017 final in England, the team were greeted like winners upon their return to India.Photo: Indian cricketers Harmanpreet Kaur (R) and Poonam Raul take a run during the ICC Women's World Cup Twenty20 semi final match between Australia and India at the Beausjour Cricket Ground in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia on May 13, 2010. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

With the Women's World Cup underway, Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Prakash Wakankar take stock of the opening week of the tournament. We speak to former India captain and ICC hall of famer, Diana Edulji to find how the Mumbai Cricket Association's talent hunt is helping to grow the women's game in the city. She tells us how a phone call to legend Sachin Tendulkar helped current India captain Harmanpreet Kaur secure a job in the railways.Plus, we head to a skills camp for girls to see how the Right Pitch Foundation are helping young girls reach their full potential in the game.Photo: Harmanpreet Kaur of India laughs during the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup India 2025 match between India and Pakistan at R. Premadasa Stadium on October 05, 2025 in Colombo, Sri Lanka. (Credit: Getty Images)

Alison Mitchell is in Guwahati and Mumbai to sample the sights and sounds as the long-awaited Women's World Cup gets underway. Joining Alison are the ABC's Brett Sprigg and Akashvani's Charu Sharma.We speak exclusively to BCCI secretary, Devajit Saikia about the growth of women's cricket in India, and whether handshakes will be exchanged ahead of India's match against Pakistan in Colombo.Plus, President of the Assam Cricket Association, Taranga Gogoi, tell us about the prestige of being asked to assume hosting duties in place of Bangalore.Photo: Stumped presenter Alison Mitchell with India fans outside the Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, India. (Credit: BBC)

There are tales of two rivalries on this week's Stumped with Alison Mitchell, Brett Sprigg and Charu Sharma:As England coach Brendon McCullum names his 16-man squad for the Ashes in Australia, the Stumped team discuss white ball captain Harry Brook's promotion to vice-captain, replacing Ollie Pope. There's a surprise in the bowling department, as Will Jacks returns as England's second spinner after a three-year absence, plus is this England's most hostile bowling attack since 1970? We reflect on another feisty meeting between India's men and Pakistan at the Asia Cup, and discuss the fall-out following a number of heated flashpoints which has seen both teams submit complaints to the ICC.Plus, India are in the spotlight as our build up to the Women's World Cup concludes. Broadcaster Annesha Ghosh tells us how the excitement is growing in India ahead of the first match on 30th September.Photo: Harry Brook of England edges as Usman Khawaja of Australia fields during Day One of the LV= Insurance Ashes 5th Test Match between England and Australia at The Kia Oval on July 27, 2023 in London, England. (Credit: Getty Images)

Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma react to the fallout following India's seven wicket over Pakistan in the Asia Cup. Our build-up to the ODI Women’s World Cup continues and we hear from former Pakistan captain turned commentator Urooj Mumtaz. She tells us how she thinks Pakistan will fare in the tournament, her thoughts on captain Fatima Sana and tells us if she thinks Pakistan and India should play each other.Plus we are joined by 18-year-old Tommy Lamb who is travelling from Manchester to Australia to watch the Ashes…. without using a plane. He tells us about his journey so far and about some of the people that he has met on the way.(Photo: India's captain Suryakumar Yadav (C) tosses the coin at the start of the Asia Cup 2025 Twenty20 international cricket match between India and Pakistan, in Dubai, 14 September, 2025. Credit: Sajjad Hussain/AFP/Getty Images)

After months of uncertainty, the Asia Cup got under way this week in the United Arab Emirates, having been in doubt following cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan in May, which disrupted the IPL and the Pakistan Super League. That led to speculation whether India would play matches against Pakistan. The Stumped team look ahead to the clash and discuss the competitive balance of the competition and whether any team in the tournament can genuinely challenge India.Our build-up to the Women’s World Cup continues and this week Sri Lanka are the focus. We hear from journalist Estelle Vasudevan, who explains what it means for the country to be back in the competition for the first time since 2017.Plus, can you remember what you were doing at 17 years old? Croatia's Zach Vukusic became the youngest ever international cricket captain in a recent T20 series against Cyprus at just 17 years and 311 days. We discuss his history making achievement.Photo: Captains of participating teams pose with the Asia Cup 2025 Twenty20 international cricket match trophy alongside Asian Cricket Council (ACC) president Mohsin Naqvi during a press conference at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on September 9, 2025. (Credit: AFP via Getty Images)

Our Women’s World Cup countdown continues, and this week we focus on South Africa. Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by all-rounder Annerie Dercksen who tells us about how she went from growing up on a farm and learning about cricket in the newspapers to being voted the ICC women’s emerging cricketer of the year 2024. She also shares what it was like having Dane Van Niekerk as part of their training camp and how the team has been inspired by the Proteas winning the World Test Championship earlier this year.We reflect on The Hundred final and debate whether Australian Adam Zampa should have made the 34,000 kilometre round trip to bowl 20 balls for the Oval Invincibles. Plus, with rumours and ‘retirements’ surrounding both the England and Australia teams ahead of the Ashes, we look at which team is faring better.Photo: Annerie Dercksen of South Africa celebrates with teammate Anneke Bosch after Brooke Halliday of New Zealand (obscured) is caught out during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Final 2024 match between South Africa and New Zealand at Dubai International Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)

Our Women’s ODI World Cup countdown continues and this week we are hearing from New Zealand Head Coach Ben Sawyer who tells us how their latest T20 World Cup win inspired a generation. He also shares the impact that captain Sophie Devine has had on the team.Plus, we head to Guernsey whose men’s team are hosting a tri-series this weekend against Finland and Switzerland. We are joined by their Chief Operating Officer Richard Headington to hear how the sport is developing at grassroots level.Photo: Sophie Devine of New Zealand kisses the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Trophy in front of photographers as she celebrates after defeating South Africa during the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Final 2024 match between South Africa and New Zealand at Dubai International Stadium on October 20, 2024 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Alex Davidson-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

Nikesh Rughani, Jim Maxwell and Sunil Gupta discuss the race to be the second biggest franchise tournament behind the Indian Premier League. SA20 commissioner and former South Africa captain Graeme Smith says they 'want to be the biggest league outside the IPL'. Yet with Australia's Big Bash looking for private investment and Indian owners taking majority shares in some Hundred teams, which franchise league can say it's legitimately the most appealing for the world's best cricketers?We continue our build-up to the Women's World Cup with Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana Joty. She tells our reporter Charlotte Swift that the team enjoys being the underdog and can build on their first 50 over World Cup appearance three years ago. Plus, we debate squad selections and omissions for both India's men and women as they prepare for the Asia Cup and World Cup respectively.Photo: South Africa & Australia Training - ICC World Test Championship Final 2025 LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 08: Former South Africa cricketer Graeme Smith pictured ahead of the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025 between South Africa and Australia at Lord's Cricket Ground on June 08, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Matthew Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)

Our build-up to the Women’s World Cup in India continues and this week we are focusing on England. We hear from Head Coach Charlotte Edwards who tells us if she thinks they can realistically win the tournament, whether their captain Nat Sciver-Brunt will bowl and the significance of spin bowler Sophie Ecclestone.Plus, Alison Mitchell, Jim Maxwell and Charu Sharma are joined by Kent and Oval Invincibles player Tawanda Muyeye. He came to England as a refugee and now harbours hopes to represent the country. Muyeye was granted refugee status along with some members of his family due to the human rights violations in Zimbabwe and arrived just days before his 17th birthday. Now aged 24, Muyeye has had a prolific year in 2025 in both the County Championship and the Hundred and we chat about his journey. Photo: Charlotte Edwards, Head Coach of England pictured during a training session ahead of the 1st T20I match between England Women and India Women at Trent Bridge on June 27, 2025 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Matt Lewis - ECB/ECB via Getty Images)