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Cricket Collective - What Now For England After MCG Test Win & A Tribute To Hugh Morris

December 30, 2025·47 min·4 clips

Neil Manthorpe questions if England's first test win in Australia in 15 years is a turning point or just papering over cracks.

This episode of Following On analyzes England's recent Test victory in Australia and its broader implications for the team's management and finances. Host Neil Manthorpe and former England fast bowler Steve Harmison are joined by cricket writer Ben Horne and former player Matt Maynard. The panel examines whether the win represents genuine progress or merely a temporary reprieve for the current leadership. The discussion centers on England ending their 15-year wait for a Test win in Australia, a match that concluded in just two days. Ben Horne details the significant financial fallout, noting Cricket Australia is set to lose over $10 million due to this abbreviated Test. The hosts also react to England's newly announced squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. A segment pays tribute to Hugh Morris, the longtime Glamorgan teammate of guest Matt Maynard. Steve Harmison notes that while the two-day finish felt unsatisfactory, the England players executed their 'Bazball' approach effectively in difficult conditions. Australian batsman Steve Smith is cited as having graciously stated England played the conditions far better. Some observers believe a 5-0 series loss would have cost the jobs of captain Ben Stokes, director Rob Key, and coach Brendon McCullum. The victory is seen as potentially a stay of execution for this leadership trio. The tone is conversational and analytical, blending immediate reaction with deeper financial and strategic commentary. Listeners interested in the business of cricket and the future of England's Test team would find this episode engaging. Those seeking only match highlights or celebratory content might find the critical examination less appealing.

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