Hi there! Welcome to Episode 302 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. In a landmark moment for South African cricket, the Proteas lifted their first-ever ICC World Test Championship title with a stunning fourth-innings chase at Lord’s.
In this episode, Hariprasad joins us as we take you through the drama of each day—from Pat Cummins’ fiery spell on Day 1 to Aiden Markram’s epic 136 under pressure.
We unpack the tactical masterstrokes, leadership grit, clutch performances, and emotional moments that defined this unforgettable final. What does this win mean for South Africa’s legacy? How did they mentally and physically outlast the Aussies in a tense four-day battle?
Join us as we relive the highs, lows, and turning points of the WTC Final 2025—an instant classic in the story of Test cricket.
Thank you so much for tuning in to today’s episode and for your incredible support. If you haven’t already, make sure to hit the follow button and tap the bell icon on Spotify to stay updated with every new episode.
Stay connected with us on social media – follow @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads, and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now X) for the latest cricket insights, fresh content, and much more throughout this action-packed season.
You can also catch the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters, and many other streaming platforms. Plus, Never on the Backfoot is now on YouTube, so don’t forget to subscribe for exclusive, in-depth content coming your way.
Thanks again for all your love and support. Until next time, stay safe, take care, and keep enjoying the game. Bye for now!
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 301 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. In this special preview episode, Lakshit joins us as we set the stage for the World Test Championship Final 2025, diving into everything you need to know before the big showdown at Lord’s.
We break down team form, key players to watch, tactical battles, pitch conditions, historical context and other discourses—plus our predictions on how it could all unfold. Whether you’re a die-hard Test cricket fan or just tuning in for the spectacle, this episode gets you fully match-ready.
If you haven’t already, make sure to hit the follow button and tap the bell icon on Spotify to stay updated with every new episode.
Stay connected with us on social media – follow @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads, and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now X) for the latest cricket insights, fresh content, and much more throughout this action-packed season.
You can also catch the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters, and many other streaming platforms. Plus, Never on the Backfoot is now on YouTube, so don’t forget to subscribe for exclusive, in-depth content coming your way.
Thanks again for all your love and support. Until next time, stay safe, take care, and keep enjoying the game. Bye for now!
For the 300th episode of the podcast, we’re doing something special — and personal.
As India prepares to host the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup, I’m turning the mic around.
In this episode, my mom interviews me about my decade-long journey as a fan of women’s cricket — how it started, what’s changed, and why this World Cup at home means more than just another tournament.
From late-night matches to overlooked stories, from the silent stands of 2013 to the rising roar of 2025 — we talk about what it means to care, to document, to dream, and to celebrate the women who play this beautiful game.
It’s about cricket. It’s about love. It’s about finding your voice in the quiet and cheering even when the world isn’t watching. This one’s for every fan who stayed — and everyone finally tuning in. 💙
If you haven’t already, make sure to hit the follow button and tap the bell icon on Spotify to stay updated with every new episode.
Stay connected with us on social media – follow @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads, and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now X) for the latest cricket insights, fresh content, and much more throughout this action-packed season.
You can also catch the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters, and many other streaming platforms. Plus, Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube, so don’t forget to subscribe for exclusive, in-depth content coming your way.
Thanks again for all your love and support. Until next time, stay safe, take care, and keep enjoying the game. Bye for now!
Welcome to Episode 299 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. India emerged victorious in the Women’s Tri-Nation ODI Series 2025, defeating Sri Lanka and South Africa to claim the title.
In this episode, Estelle Vasudevan joins us as we break down all the major talking points – from Smriti Mandhana’s match-winning century in the final to Sneh Rana’s standout performances with the ball. and a lot more.
We also analyze Sri Lanka’s commendable run to the final, South Africa’s missed opportunities, and the tactical adjustments that defined key moments throughout the series. Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on standout players, crucial turning points, and what this series means for all three teams heading into the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025.
If you haven’t already, make sure to hit the follow button and tap the bell icon on Spotify to stay updated with every new episode.
Stay connected with us on social media – follow @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads, and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now X) for the latest cricket insights, fresh content, and much more throughout this action-packed season.
You can also catch the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters, and many other streaming platforms. Plus, Never on the Backfoot is now on YouTube, so don’t forget to subscribe for exclusive, in-depth content coming your way!
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 298 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. In this episode we’re joined by Prajin for a double-duty deep dive — first into the Senior Women’s Multi Day Challenger Trophy 2025. We break down performances, formats, and frustrations from the recently concluded red-ball competition. Was Team D's dominance expected? Did the toss play too big a role in results? And should we push for four-day women's games?
Then, we shift gears to preview the upcoming Women’s Tri-Series in Sri Lanka, with the World Cup on the horizon. From Harmanpreet Kaur's return to fresh call-ups for Kashvee Gautam, Shuchi Upadhyay, and N Shree Charani, we unpack India’s squad selection, discuss notable omissions like Shafali Verma, and spotlight who could emerge as X-factors in this crucial preparatory series.
Tune in for insights, tactical takes, and a pulse check on India’s ODI roadmap!
Thank you so much listeners for tuning in to this episode and for your unstinted support. Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned.
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well. Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners.
In a shocking shake-up, England faces a major leadership overhaul. Heather Knight steps down as captain after an eight-year tenure, while head coach Jon Lewis is dismissed following England’s disastrous 16-0 Ashes loss and a disappointing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign.
What went wrong for England? Was this purely a coaching failure, or are there deeper structural issues? Rosa joins us as we analyze Knight’s legacy, the ECB’s wide-ranging review, and what’s next for England Women’s cricket.
With potential coaching candidates like Charlotte Edwards and a new captain on the horizon, we discuss the road ahead for the team.
Tune in for a deep dive into England’s struggles, leadership transition, and the impact of these changes on the future of women’s cricket.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
As the dust settles on another thrilling season of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2025, Janani of Sportsy Mathsy Tales fame joins us to take a deep dive into the biggest talking points from the tournament.
From the high-stakes Eliminator and Final to Mumbai Indians’ consistent dominance and Delhi Capitals’ campaign, we break down what worked, what didn’t, and what teams need to rethink ahead of the next auction.
We also analyze top performers, including the Orange and Purple Cap winners, and revisit our favourite individual performances of the season.
How did India’s top stars fare? Which young talents put their names forward for international selection?
Beyond just WPL 2025, we tackle larger discourses—how does the league compare to WBBL, WCPL & The Hundred? Is the WPL ready for expansion?
Have the league’s overall standards evolved from Season 1 to now? Finally, we reveal our Team of the Tournament and outline what lies ahead for WPL teams and the league itself.
Tune in for a thoughtful and engaging discussion on the state of WPL and its future!
Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned. The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The Women's Premier League 2025 season was a rollercoaster of performances, surprises, and defining moments.
In this episode, Rishab hops on as we take a deep dive into how each team fared, analyzing their strengths, struggles, and standout players. From Delhi Capitals' relentless push for the title under Meg Lanning to Mumbai Indians winning their 2nd WPl crown, every team's journey had its own story.
We break down Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s unexpected downfall, UP Warriorz' efforts to find consistency, and Gujarat Giants' attempts to turn their fortunes around. With tactical decisions, key matchups, and the biggest talking points from the season, this episode brings you the ultimate WPL 2025 post-season analysis.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners. Bye for now.
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 293 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast.
Australia’s modern-day great, Steve Smith, has announced his retirement from ODI cricket, leaving behind a legacy of 5800 runs, 12 centuries, and two World Cup trophies.
But what does this mean for Australia’s future in the format?
In this episode, we dive deep into:
Join us as we break down the highs, the impact, and the lasting legacy of Steve Smith in ODI cricket.
On the podcast today for this discussion, we have Soorya Sesha joining us.
Thank you so much listeners for tuning in to this episode and for your unstinted support. Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned.
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well.
Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners!
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 292 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast.
In this episode, we take a deep dive into Vidarbha’s incredible 2024-25 campaign, from their dominant league stage performances to their hard-fought victory in the final against Kerala.
We break down the key moments, standout players like Karun Nair, Danish Malewar, and record-breaking spinner Harsh Dubey, and the team’s resurgence under Akshay Wadkar’s leadership.
How did Vidarbha bounce back after last season’s heartbreak? What does this victory mean for the future of Indian domestic cricket?
On the podcast today for this discussion, we have Lalith Kalidas. He is a Senior Sub-Editor with The Indian Express sports team, specializing in cricket coverage with a keen focus on India's domestic circuit. He is a former state-level cricketer from Kerala, Lalith has over three years of experience in sports journalism.
Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned.
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well. Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners!
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 291 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. Halfway through WPL 2025, and the race for the playoffs is heating up!
In this episode, Rishab joins us to break down the performances of all six teams, analyzing their strengths, struggles, and standout players.
Join us as we dissect captaincy calls, tactical shifts, and game-changing performances, and predict what’s in store for the second half of the season!
Who looks like a title contender, and who needs a turnaround ASAP? This episode has it all!
Thank you so much listeners for tuning in to this episode and for your unstinted support. Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned.
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well.
Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners!
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 290 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. The future of women’s cricket was on full display at the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025!
India clinched the trophy, showcasing their dominance and future stars on the global stage!
In this episode, Mohit Shah joins us as we break down the standout performances, emerging stars, and key moments that shaped the tournament. Who dominated with the bat and ball?
Which teams exceeded expectations, and who fell short? We also analyze the tactical trends, the group stages, super sixes, knockouts, player development insights, other major discourses and what this tournament means for the future of women’s cricket.
Ps. In other news, I'm excited to share that Never on the Backfoot has been ranked 11th on FeedSpot's list of the Top 40 Cricket Podcasts! You can check the whole list here.
As always, thank you so much listeners for tuning in to this episode and for your unstinted support. Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned.
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well.
Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners 🌻
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 289 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. The Women's Premier League 2025 is here, and we’ve got you covered with an all-encompassing preview!
From squad breakdowns and key player battles to tactical insights and emerging talents, this episode dives deep into what to expect this season. In this episode, we are looking at UP Warriorz and Gujarat Giants.
Which teams have the strongest line-ups? What are the strengths and weaknesses? Who are the X-factors to watch out for? Tune in as Tanvi and I analyze the competition, matches and players to look forward to, and let’s set the stage for an electrifying season ahead!Thank you so much listeners for tuning in to this episode and for your unstinted support. Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned.
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well. Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners.
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 288 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. Get ready for an exciting deep dive into the heavyweights of the Women's Premier League 2025!
In this episode, Juili and I are breaking down the top contenders – Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Mumbai Indians (MI).
We’ll analyze their squad strengths, key player matchups, and what to expect from each team this season. From emerging talents to game-changing X-factors, we’ve got all the insights you need to set the stage for a thrilling WPL season. Tune in for a detailed preview of RCB, MI, and DC!
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well. Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners.
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 287 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. In this episode, Janani joins us to break down the Women's Ashes 2025, dissecting England’s struggles and Australia’s dominance across all formats.
From England's selection challenges and Heather Knight's leadership to Australia’s commanding performances– we analyze each ODI and T20I match, including the crushing Test defeat.
We discuss Jon Lewis’ coaching impact, ‘cultural’ shifts, and England’s fundamental issues, while also acknowledging Australia’s strengths and areas for growth. Tune in for an insightful, no-holds-barred look at this Ashes series and where both teams go from here.
Thank you so much listeners for tuning in to this episode and for your unstinted support. Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned.
Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well. Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners.
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 286 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast.
In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating yet challenging phase of Virat Kohli's Test career, focusing on his struggles against deliveries outside the off-stump.
Join us as we analyze the technical, mental, and tactical nuances of Kohli’s approach, his adjustments over the years, and how age, luck, and modern bowling strategies have impacted one of the greatest batters of this era.
On the podcast today for this discussion, we have Aarti Sankaran, a Cricket Coach and Broadcaster joining us! She is a BCCI NCA Certified Coach (Level 3) with her specialization primarily in wicket-keeping and batting.
Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned. Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well.
Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners.
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 285 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. In this episode, we’re diving into the Senior Women’s One Day Trophy and the Senior Women’s One Day Challenger Trophy 2025.
Joining us is Prajin of Women's CricCraze fame, as we reflect on two exhilarating tournaments that showcased the depth and brilliance of Indian women’s cricket.
We discuss Railways' dip in dominance, the rise of new contenders, and analyze the most competitive groups in the One Day Trophy.
From thrilling matches to standout performances in all five groups, to the nail-biting Pre-Quarter Finals, Quarter Finals, and Semi-Finals, we break down every key moment that led to Madhya Pradesh's spectacular title win. With MP’s recent dominance in U19, U23, and now the senior circuit, we explore their flourishing cricketing ecosystem.
Shifting focus to the Challenger Trophy, we analyze Team A's group-stage dominance, Team C’s underdog rise to the title, and the notable highs and lows of Teams D and E.
We also discuss standout players—both international and domestic—who are making waves ahead of the Women’s Premier League and the home World Cup. Plus, we share trends, takeaways, and the future of women’s domestic cricket in India.
Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned. Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well.
Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners.
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 284 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast.
In this episode, we dive deep into India’s emphatic 3-0 ODI series win against Ireland in Rajkot and we unpack all the action and storylines from the series!
On the podcast today for this discussion, we have Juili Ballal joining us! She is a journalist, a commentator and an MCA certified umpire and this is one among the many roles she dons!
Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned. Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well. Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners.
Hi there! Welcome to Episode 283 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast.
In this episode, we tackle one of the most debated topics in modern cricket: the proposed two-tier system for Test cricket.
With the International Cricket Council (ICC) reportedly discussing plans to restructure the World Test Championship, we explore what this could mean for the sport's future.
We delve into the financial, political, and ethical implications of splitting cricket's longest format into elite and lower tiers.
Can this system revitalize Test cricket or will it widen the gap between cricket's powerhouses and emerging nations?
On the podcast today for this discussion, we have Soorya Sesha. He is a cricket journalist and a featured writer at Sportskeeda and also jointly heads the features team there. He has been a passionate cricket tragic since the age of 9 and has been in his profession for more than two years now. And like many others, he was once upon a time, an engineer.
Please follow and press the bell icon on Spotify and stay tuned. Do check out @neveronthebackfoot on Instagram and Threads and @neverontheback1 on Twitter (now called X) for the latest facts, updates, fresh content and a lot more coming up this cricket season.
The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, Spotify for Podcasters and many other platforms and spread the word.
Never on the Backfoot is also on YouTube so don’t forget to subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for a lot of insightful content coming up there as well.
Until next time, stay safe and take care, listeners!
