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The Last Wicket

Cricket Guys

Two US-based cricket fans are joined every episode by some of the most knowledgeable people in the game, for wide ranging conversations on everything from analytics to cricket history and everything in between.

  • 100 episodes
  • Updated July 2

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Episodes100

  • May 14, 2025 · 45 min

    From Dominance to Departure: Kohli's Impact on Test Cricket

    Virat Kohli's recent retirement from Test cricket marks a significant turning point in Indian cricket, and we delve into the implications of his abrupt departure from the format. In this episode, we analyze the context surrounding Kohli's departure alongside that of Rohit Sharma, both of whom have been stalwarts in the Indian Test lineup. We explore Kohli's illustrious career, the impact of his performances, and the evolving dynamics within the team as younger players are poised to step into his shoes. The discussion further extends to the future of Indian Test cricket, as we contemplate the challenges and opportunities ahead in the wake of Kohli and Rohit's retirement. Join us as we reflect on Kohli's legacy and the broader ramifications for Indian cricket.

  • May 5, 2025 · 37 min

    Analyzing the Surprises of IPL 2025: A Deep Dive with Mayank and Abhaye

    Mayank and Abhaye engage in an insightful discourse concerning the recent developments within the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. They delve into team performances, highlighting the surprising trajectories of franchises such as Delhi Capitals, who initially displayed promise but are now grappling with inconsistencies, and Mumbai Indians, whose resurgence has reestablished them as formidable contenders. As they dissect the implications of strategic auction decisions, the conversation also touches upon standout individual performances, notably Rohit Sharma and Jos Buttler, whose contributions have substantially influenced their teams' fortunes. This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of the current standings and reflects on the intricate dynamics of team composition and player form within the league. Listeners are invited to explore these themes as the tournament progresses and the race for the playoffs intensifies. Follow Nordic CricPundits (@CricPundits) / X

  • Apr 13, 2025 · 57 min

    The IPL 2025 Landscape: Teams in Turmoil and Rising Stars

    The latest discourse on the Indian Premier League 2025 unfolds with hosts Benny and Mayank as they delve into the unexpected developments of the tournament thus far. Central to our dialogue is the disconcerting performance of traditionally dominant teams, specifically the Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, both languishing at the bottom of the standings. We explore the implications of these teams' struggles, contrasting them with the emerging prowess of younger players, such as Priyansh Arya and Digvesh Rathi, who have captured the attention and admiration of cricket enthusiasts. Additionally, we evaluate the strategic decisions and overall team dynamics that have contributed to the current standings while speculating on future trajectories as the season progresses. Join us as we dissect the nuances of this captivating season, providing insights into the evolving landscape of the IPL.

  • Apr 5, 2025 · 1 hr 10 min

    Dhoni Rages Against The Dying Light - An IPL Roundup

    The ongoing IPL season has elicited a fervent discourse among hosts Benny and Mayank, who engage with special guest Ben Brettell to delve into the intricacies of the tournament. A salient point of discussion revolves around the contentious issue of pitch preparation and its implications for teams seeking home advantage. The hosts explore the contrasting strategies employed by various franchises, mainly the dissatisfaction expressed by teams such as Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders regarding their curators' decisions. Furthermore, they highlight standout performances from players such as Sai Sudarshan and Mohammed Siraj, illuminating the evolving dynamics of the league. As the conversation unfolds, the trio contemplates the broader ramifications of these developments on team strategies and the overall competitive landscape of IPL 2025. Link CricInspo by Ben Brettell | Substack

  • Mar 26, 2025 · 49 min

    Sixers and Spinners: IPL 2025's Round 1 Unwrapped

    Hosts Benny and Mayank delve into the exhilarating realm of IPL 2025, encapsulating the fervor of cricket enthusiasts as we reflect upon the remarkable performances witnessed in the initial matches of the season. We commence by celebrating the culmination of our first century of episodes, a milestone that underscores our enduring passion for the sport. The discussion then transitions to notable players, such as Shreyas Iyer and Noor Ahmad, whose extraordinary displays have captivated audiences and promise to impact their respective teams significantly. Furthermore, we explore the implications of evolving batting strategies within the IPL, particularly how the emphasis on high-scoring matches may alter the tournament's dynamics. As we navigate these topics, we invite listeners to consider the intricate balance between batting prowess and bowling finesse, a theme that resonates throughout the fabric of cricket. Takeaways: The inaugural round of IPL 2025 showcased remarkable performances, notably highlighting the exceptional skills of lesser-known players. In this episode, we reflect on the significance of IPL in providing a platform for domestic cricketers to shine amidst international talents. We discuss cricket's evolving nature, emphasizing the increasing dominance of batting over traditional bowling strategies in the IPL. Our predictions for the playoffs suggest a competitive landscape, with Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings as perennial favorites for success. Link referenced in this episode: freehitgear.com Companies mentioned in this episode: Freeheat Gear Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/luxurious License code: D55JWIKII2WWUUWK

  • Mar 11, 2025 · 1 hr 2 min

    Unraveling India's Triumph: A Deep Dive into the 2025 Champions Trophy

    A comprehensive analysis of the recently concluded 2025 Champions Trophy reveals the remarkable journey of Team India, culminating in their triumphant victory under the astute leadership of Rohit Sharma. Throughout the tournament, India displayed an unparalleled level of consistency, remaining unbeaten and demonstrating a depth of talent that has become the hallmark of contemporary Indian cricket. The hosts, Benny and Mayank, delve into various narratives emerging from the tournament, including the stellar performances of individual players, the strategic acumen displayed by the Indian team management, and the implications of India's victory for the future of limited-overs cricket. They reflect on the evolution of Rohit Sharma as a captain and the legacy he is building within the sport, juxtaposing this with discussions on the potential future of key players like Virat Kohli and the younger generation poised to take over the mantle. Ultimately, the episode serves as a celebration of Indian cricket's current dominance while also pondering the inevitable transitions that lie ahead. The hosts further explore the dynamics of other participating teams, including New Zealand's perennial struggle in finals, the inconsistent performances of Pakistan, and Afghanistan's promising trajectory in international cricket, providing listeners with a multifaceted understanding of the tournament's landscape.

  • Mar 4, 2025 · 58 min

    Cricket's Skill Revolution: Insights from Mayank and Arnav Jain

    The conversation between host Mayank and guest Arnav Jain delves into the profound transformation of cricketing skills over the past two decades, illuminating how both batting and bowling techniques have evolved significantly. Arnav articulates the notion that the current cricketing landscape is markedly distinct from that of the early 2000s, primarily due to the emergence of new strategies, the influence of T20 formats, and the changing nature of pitches. They examine the implications of these shifts on player performance, particularly the decline in batting averages and the rising challenges faced by bowlers in today's game. Additionally, they explore the role of technology, such as DRS, in reshaping the dynamics of cricket. This dialogue not only encapsulates the shifting paradigms of cricket but also invites listeners to ponder the future of the sport in an ever-evolving competitive arena. Links referenced in this episode: freehitgear.com Arnav Jain | Substack Arnav Jain (@arnav1204aj) / X Companies mentioned in this episode: Freeheat Gear

  • Feb 19, 2025 · 1 hr 9 min

    Unveiling the Champions Trophy: Insights from Cricket Expert Gaurav Tripathi

    The Champions Trophy is upon us, and in this episode, we delve into the intricacies of this prestigious tournament with a keen focus on the dynamics of the competing teams. Host Mayank engages in a substantive dialogue with Gaurav Tripathi, sub-editor at Cricket.com, as they explore the strengths and weaknesses of the various squads, dissecting the implications of their recent performances. The conversation highlights the significance of team compositions and the impact of player injuries, particularly for powerhouses like India and Australia. Furthermore, they scrutinize the potential dark horses of the tournament and assess how emerging teams like Afghanistan could disrupt the conventional hierarchy. Join us as we navigate the complexities of the Champions Trophy and offer our predictions for this highly anticipated event. Takeaways: The Champions Trophy garners significant attention as top international teams compete, reviving rivalries and generating excitement. The relevance of the Champions Trophy is questioned due to the declining frequency of ODI matches played by teams. India, while a strong contender, faces challenges in their bowling lineup, particularly with the absence of key players like Bumrah. Pakistan's unpredictable nature and fluctuating performance pose potential challenges for their success in the tournament. New Zealand is viewed as a dark horse, capable of overachieving despite not being seen as the strongest on paper. Afghanistan's spinners are expected to play a crucial role in their potential success at the Champions Trophy, given their recent form. Link Gaurav Nandan Tripathi | गौरव नंदन त्रिपाठी (@Cric_Beyond_Ent) / X

  • Jan 6, 2025 · 1 hr 13 min

    Bowled Over: Celebrating Ravichandran Ashwin's Legendary Career

    Ravichandran Ashwin's retirement from international cricket marks the end of an era for Indian cricket, and this episode delves deep into his illustrious career. The hosts Benny and Mayank, along with special guest Shayan, explore the nuances of Ashwin's contributions to the game, from his remarkable bowling feats to his strategic mind on the field. They discuss key moments from his career, including standout performances in pivotal matches and his unique approach to the game, which has often set him apart as a thinker and innovator. The conversation also touches on the complexities of his persona, the challenges he faced within the team dynamics, and how his analytical nature has influenced both his playing style and leadership potential. Join them as they celebrate the remarkable journey of one of cricket's greatest off-spinners and reflect on what his legacy means for the future of Indian cricket. Ravichandran Ashwin's cricketing journey is a testament to talent, intelligence, and relentless pursuit of excellence. This episode takes listeners through the various milestones of Ashwin's career, from his early days in the IPL with Chennai Super Kings to his pivotal role in the Indian Test team. The hosts, Benny, Mayank, and guest Shayan, engage in a rich discussion about Ashwin's unique contributions to cricket, emphasizing his strategic acumen and ability to adapt his game to different formats and conditions. They explore the nuances of his retirement announcement, made mid-series during a challenging tour of Australia, raising important questions about the timing and its implications for the team dynamics. The episode highlights key performances that defined Ashwin's career, including his impactful spells in crucial matches such as the 2011 World Cup quarter-finals and the 2013 Champions Trophy final. The hosts delve into statistical analysis to underscore Ashwin's effectiveness as a bowler, discussing his ability to exploit batsmen's weaknesses and his evolution as an all-rounder. They reflect on his batting contributions, which, while sometimes overlooked, have been crucial in many match situations. This multifaceted approach provides a comprehensive understanding of Ashwin as a player who not only excels in bowling but also provides valuable runs when needed most. As the conversation unfolds, the hosts celebrate Ashwin's legacy and the indelible mark he has left on Indian cricket. They reminisce about memorable moments and the sheer joy he has brought to fans across the globe. The episode calls for listeners to appreciate Ashwin's achievements in the context of his unique playing style and his impact on the sport, urging a focus on the celebration of his career rather than the controversies surrounding his retirement. By the end, listeners are left with a profound appreciation for Ashwin's contributions to cricket and an understanding of what makes him one of the game's greats. Link Shayan Khan (@TweetsByShayan) / X

  • Dec 23, 2024 · 1 hr 7 min

    Gully Gully - Behind the Scenes of the 2023 World Cup: Aditya Iyer's Memorable Stories

    This podcast episode features author Aditya Iyer discussing his book, "Gully Gully," which chronicles his experiences traveling across India during the 2023 Cricket World Cup. Iyer shares captivating anecdotes and insights into the remarkable performance of the Indian cricket team, highlighting that this squad boasted not only a stellar batting lineup but also an exceptionally talented bowling attack. He reflects on the unique atmosphere created by team leaders Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid, which fostered camaraderie among players and contributed to their success. The conversation delves into the significance of cricket in uniting fans across India, illustrating how it transcends regional divides and evokes deep emotional responses. Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the intersection of sports, culture, and personal stories that shape the narrative of cricket in India. Takeaways: Aditya's journey from being a science student to a cricket journalist is inspiring and relatable. The camaraderie among the Indian cricket team players is pivotal to their success. Aditya emphasizes the importance of the fans' experiences and stories in cricket narratives. He believes cricket serves as a medium to explore the diverse culture of India. The Indian bowling lineup is currently the strongest it has ever been in World Cups. Aditya's writing style blends personal anecdotes with broader observations about cricket and society. Links Buy Gully Gully: Travels Around India during the 2023 World Cup Book Online at Low Prices in India | Gully Gully: Travels Around India during the 2023 World Cup Reviews & Ratings - Amazon.in Aditya Iyer (@Iyr_Adi) / X

  • Nov 4, 2024 · 1 hr

    Talking Cricket Analytics with Soham Sarkhel

    CricViz senior broadcast analyst Soham Sarkhel joins The Last Wicket's Mayank to discuss his journey in cricket broadcasting, his roles with HawkEye and Cricviz, the evolution of technology within the sport and much more. Soham Sarkhel | Career highlight to get the chance to work with Ian Bishop and others in the comm box. What an absolute legend he is! This means the world... | Instagram Soham Sarkhel (@Soham_Sarkhel) / X

  • Oct 21, 2024 · 1 hr 1 min

    Checking in on Pakistan Cricket with Assad

    Special guest Assad (Assad (@CoverDriveCric) / X) is back on the Last Wicket to discuss the latest happenings in Pakistan cricket and what lies ahead. We talk about the constant upheavals, flailing performances, state of domestic cricket and much more.

  • Aug 5, 2024 · 49 min

    Ashwin Has The Streets

    The Last Wicket duo is joined by founding member of the pod - Himanish to discuss Indian spin legend Ravi Ashwin's book "I Have The Streets - A Kutty Cricket Story". We discuss what the book reveals about what sets Ashwin apart from his peers, the perceptions about his attitude and constant innovations, what the future holds for Ashwin, and much more. Himanish Ganjoo (@hganjoo_153) / X I Have the Streets: A Kutti Cricket Story: Ashwin, R, Monga, Sidharth: 9780670094745: Amazon.com: Books

  • Jul 22, 2024 · 57 min

    Future of American Cricket with Aaman Patel

    Special guest Aaaman Patel (Aaman Patel (@APSportsNews_) / X) joins The Last Wicket to talk through an eventful phase of cricket in the USA - the recent T20 World Cup and the ongoing second season of Major League Cricket. We talk about his journey to becoming a commentator in American cricket, the US team's campaign in the World Cup, the outlook for cricket in the USA, and much more.

  • Jun 10, 2024 · 1 hr 29 min

    Cricket and Documentaries

    The Last Wicket boys are joined by Prashant DP to discuss cricket documentaries - best, worst and everything in between. We discuss our personal favorites, the stories and agendas they contain, the relevance of documentaries in sports, and our wishlist for potential cricket documentaries. Links Prashant DP (@prashantdptweet) / X Prashant DP – Medium

  • May 6, 2024 · 1 hr 15 min

    The Battle for Cricket's Calendar in the Brave New World

    Special guest Aryan Surana joins the Last Wicket duo to discuss the Future Tour Program (FTP), the impact of franchise cricket on the cricketing calendar, ideas for finding a balance between the economics of the game, franchise cricket, and international cricket. Bonus: some ranting on the Real Big Bash League aka IPL. Links Re-defining cricket's calendar - Freehit's Blog (substack.com) Aryan Surana (@iamaryansurana) / X (twitter.com)

  • Apr 1, 2024 · 1 hr 16 min

    Royal Challengers are Winners and Bazballers are Brought Back to Earth

    The Last Wicket duo is joined by Kartik (@EliteCynic) once again - this time to break down the year in cricket so far. We discuss the recent England men's tour of India, RCB lifting winning their maiden title in the WPL, the BCCI contracts fracas, and the amusing Bangladesh-Sri Lanka rivalry. ---------------------------------------- Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/soundroll/poem License code: MTA2KJIXYBZM7PF3 https://uppbeat.io/t/pryces/music-is License code: UV5NI1BUQ7SL55MP

  • Jan 29, 2024 · 1 hr 32 min

    Shastri and Dravid - A Song of Fire and Ice

    For the first episode of 2024, The Last Wicket duo are joined by Nikhil Popat aka @CricCrazyNiks to talk about the contrasting tenures of the Indian men's erstwhile and current coaches - Ravi Shastri and Rahul Dravid. We discuss their approaches to man-management, tactics and vision, their highs and lows, and what their stints mean for the immediate future of Indian cricket.

  • Dec 25, 2023 · 1 hr 18 min

    2023 - A Look Back

    The Last Wicket hosts discuss the highlights of cricketing action in 2023, including the continuing march of T20 leagues around the world, the progress of women's cricket, the eventful Men's Ashes series, India's stumble at the final hurdles in the WTC and World Cup, and much more.