The Final Word Cricket Podcast TFW Ashes Daily - the MCG aftermath
Dec 28, 2025
The MCG pitch controversy takes center stage, sparking passionate debate about its impact on the Ashes series. Adam and Geoff analyze how modern batters' aggressive instincts are shaped by multi-format backgrounds, while discussing the potential consequences for Test cricket scheduling. England's emotional win adds tension as they move into Sydney with the series still alive. Curator comments reveal unexpected pitch behavior, leading to a call for rethinking surfaces. Amid challenges, there's optimism for a Test cricket reset.
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MCG Pitch Was An Aberration
- The MCG pitch produced an unexpected imbalance favouring bowlers and surprised curators with excessive lateral movement and bounce.
- Matt Page and Stuart Fox accept it was an aberration and plan a long-term adaptation to modern Test demands.
Stomping Ground Listener Night
- Adam and Geoff attended a Final Word event at Stomping Ground Beer Hall with 40–50 listeners.
- They enjoyed mingling, taking photos, and appreciated not scheduling it for day three of the Test.
Aggression Born From Fatalism
- Top-level players now often assume the ball will get them eventually and adopt aggressive tactics to score quickly.
- That mindset risks producing more short, decisive matches rather than traditional attritional Test cricket.