2026 – A tumultuous summer
Summary
The TMS podcast reviews a tumultuous cricket summer marked by England’s chaotic Test season, the end of Bazball, and Joe Root’s return as captain. Guests discuss the poor quality of Test matches against Pakistan and New Zealand, while praising the white-ball side’s strong T20 performance and ODI progress. The panel also reflects on the Women’s T20 World Cup final loss to Australia, the inaugural Hundred’s mixed reception, and Warwickshire’s county title triumph.
Topics discussed
Sponsorship ads for Whole Foods Market and QVC
Introduction and summary of the summer cricket season
England Test side changes: Root, Fleming, and Bazball
Review of poor Test cricket performances and pitches
Debate on Bazball's sustainability and entertainment value
Off-field issues: Brook incident and Joe Root's response
England Men's T20 improvement and leadership
ODI progress and concerns for the upcoming World Cup
Analysis of England's defeat to Sri Lanka in ODIs
England Women's T20 World Cup performance and legacy
Discussion on women's cricket mainstream appeal
The Hundred: new ownership and format assessment
Fan engagement and comparison with SA20
County Championship: Warwickshire title and Surrey decline
Women's domestic cricket: Blaze treble and player availability
Closing remarks and BBC Sounds promotion
Promotion for the Global Story podcast on K-pop
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