Summary
The upcoming English Football League season is set to kick off this weekend, with significant discussions surrounding the Championship, League One, and League Two. The hosts express a mix of anticipation and concern, particularly regarding the performance of teams like Aston Villa and the implications of recent managerial changes. England's men's cricket team is also in the spotlight, as they prepare for a three-test series against Pakistan. The appointment of Stephen Fleming as the new test coach and Joe Root's return as captain has sparked debate about the direction of the team, especially after a disappointing recent history.
Lawrence Booth, editor of the Wisden Cricket Almanack, shares his ambivalence about the current state of English cricket, noting that the team is in a holding pattern until Fleming officially takes over. He emphasizes the need for England to convincingly win the series against Pakistan to regain confidence after recent defeats. The conversation touches on the challenges of leadership within the team, particularly the absence of Ben Stokes, and the pressure on Root to succeed despite past struggles.
In the realm of football, the PFA has initiated high court proceedings against the EFL regarding new wage control rules in League One, which have raised concerns about player security and club sustainability. The discussion highlights the impact of these regulations on player turnover and the challenges faced by clubs in managing finances. Additionally, the hosts delve into the dynamics of teams like West Ham and Southampton, assessing their prospects for the season amidst ongoing controversies and managerial changes.
Show Notes
The England Men’s test cricket team are in a hole. After a spectacular collapse at home to New Zealand which saw the end of Stokes, McCullum and the ‘Bazball’ era earlier this summer England now face a must win series against Pakistan. But guess what? Their new test coach, who has never coached a test team, is in New Zealand and it’s all got Mark Chapman feeling a bit down about his favourite sport. Nedum, Gabby & Mark are joined by Wisden editor Lawrence Booth to discuss an ECB omni shambles and the immediate future, however bleak, of England Men’s test cricket team. In happier news the EFL kicks off this weekend and the guys bring you all the big stories which should be on your radar as The Championship, League One & League Two curtain raisers. Elsewhere Stuart Broad’s viral solar eclipse commentary at The Hundred and Gabby’s incredible impression of a Birmingham accent will delight and offend in equal measure.
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