The Grade Cricketer Weak Men, with Alex Malcolm
Dec 9, 2025
Alex Malcolm, a cricket writer for Cricinfo specializing in Australian cricket, joins the discussion to analyze England's struggles during the Ashes. He highlights the effectiveness of Australia's disciplined tactics and superior fielding, contrasting it with England's 'Bazball' approach. Malcolm argues that Australia's players possess the talent to excel but also have vulnerabilities. The podcast delves into the strategies needed for success in Australia, examining the depth of batting and potential adjustments as the series progresses.
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Episode notes
Brand Versus Conditions
- Pezza and Higgos argue Baz Ball's attacking brand clashed with Australia's traditional toughness, revealing cultural mismatch.
- They say England's adventurous style lacked the underlying discipline that wins in Australia.
Workmanlike Cricket Wins
- Australia won by executing traditional basics: out-batting, out-bowling, out-fielding and out-thinking England.
- Alex Malcolm credits selection and game plan clarity, especially in pink-ball contexts, for that execution.
Mixed Messages From Leadership
- The hosts point out Stokes praised one defensive innings then called teammates weak, exposing strategic inconsistency.
- They argue this highlights a failure of tactics and a four-year approach that wouldn't suit Australian conditions.
