Never on the Backfoot: A Podcast

Hi there! Welcome to Episode 335 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. We unpack a dramatic stretch of World Cup action — from India’s nail-biting loss to South Africa to Australia’s record-breaking chase in Visakhapatnam.

We start with that rollercoaster in Vizag — Richa Ghosh’s lone stand, Nadine de Klerk’s composure under fire, and where exactly India let it slip. Then, we head to Guwahati, where New Zealand found their spark after a rocky start, with Sophie Devine and Brooke Halliday steering a stunning turnaround against Bangladesh.

In Colombo, Nat Sciver-Brunt reminded everyone why she’s world-class with a century built on control and clarity, while Sophie Ecclestone spun a web around Sri Lanka. And then in Vizag, we relive Alyssa Healy’s breathtaking 142 — a statement knock that redefined Australia’s chase blueprint and exposed India’s inconsistency under pressure and lastly look at South Africa pulling off a heist against Bangladesh chasing down a challenging total with 3 wickets to spare!

Fine margins, clutch moments, and statement performances — this is the story of a World Cup week that had it all.

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 334 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. From India’s composed dominance over Pakistan to South Africa’s statement chase in Indore, England’s tricky pursuit against Bangladesh and Australia’s heist versus Pakistan— this episode breaks down a week full of defining moments at the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. 

We revisit Kranti Goud’s game-changing spell, Tazmin Brits’ elegant century, Heather Knight’s calm masterclass and Beth Mooney’s breathtaking knock, while also diving into the resilience shown by teams like Bangladesh and Pakistan. 

Join us as we unpack intent, composure, and the evolving tactical edge across these crucial group-stage clashes — setting the tone for what’s shaping up to be a gripping tournament.

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 333 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. The ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 is off to a flying start, and we’re breaking down all the action from the first four games! 

From India’s lower-order rescue act against Sri Lanka to Ashleigh Gardner and Sophie Devine lighting up the Australia–New Zealand clash, from Bangladesh’s statement win over Pakistan to England’s ruthless demolition of South Africa — this episode has it all.

Joining me is Janani as we dive deep into collapses, comebacks, rivalries, and standout performances that are already shaping this tournament. 

Was India’s batting collapse a warning sign? Are Australia still setting the tone despite early wobbles? Is Bangladesh becoming Pakistan’s World Cup nemesis? And should South Africa hit the panic button after a 69 all-out shocker?

Tune in for a detailed, conversational breakdown of the big talking points, turning moments, and what it all means for the road ahead in this World Cup.

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 332 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. The 2022 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was more than just a tournament — it was a showcase of skill, resilience, and the evolving power of women’s cricket on the global stage. 

In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of the World Cup, starting from the qualifying journey, pre-tournament build-up, and intense warm-up matches, to the drama and unpredictability of the group stage.

We analyze each team’s campaign, highlight the standout performers, and revisit the game-changing moments that defined the tournament. From Australia’s dominant run to England’s thrilling clashes, India’s high-scoring feats, and the fighting spirit of South Africa, New Zealand, West Indies, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, we reflect on the stories, struggles, and triumphs that shaped this edition.

Finally, we break down the semi-finals and the nail-biting final, discussing the strategies, performances, and moments that decided the ultimate champion. Join us as we explore the legacy of the 2022 Women’s ODI World Cup, the impact it had on visibility and competitiveness, and the lessons it offers for the future of women’s cricket worldwide.

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 331 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. The 2017 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was more than just a cricket tournament — it was a watershed moment for the women’s game. 

Hosted in England, it brought together eight of the world’s best teams, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable performances that changed the way women’s cricket was seen globally.

In this episode, we revisit the journey from the qualifiers in Colombo all the way to that historic final at Lord’s. We look back at the drama of the group stage — India’s unbeaten start and surprise defeats, England’s bounce-back after an opening loss, South Africa’s emergence as dark horses, Australia’s clinical dominance, and the struggles of West Indies, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. 

We break down the key moments that shifted momentum: Athapaththu’s record-breaking 178* against Australia, Harmanpreet Kaur’s iconic 171* in the semi-final, and Anya Shrubsole’s spell that sealed England’s fourth title.

Through tactical insights, player narratives, and behind-the-scenes context, we ask: what made 2017 the turning point for women’s cricket? Which teams rose, which faltered, and what legacies did this World Cup leave behind for the players, the fans, and the sport itself?

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 330 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. Pakistan have named a youthful yet ambitious squad for the Women’s World Cup 2025, with Fatima Sana leading the side for the first time in the tournament.

Uncapped batter Eyman Fatima headlines the selections, while experienced names like Sidra Amin, Aliya Riaz, and Diana Baig strengthen the core. 

In this episode, Janani of Sportsy Mathsy Tales joins us as we break down the squad player by player—examining Pakistan’s batting depth, bowling strengths, wicketkeeping options, and the X-factors who could shape their campaign. 

From the return of Sadaf Shamas to the spin resources of Nashra Sandhu and Syeda Aroob Shah, we ask: does this squad have what it takes to push Pakistan into the knockout stages?

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 Creators, 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 329 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. New Zealand have named their 15 for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025—a blend of experience and fresh faces. 

With Sophie Devine and Suzie Bates stepping into their fifth World Cup, Lea Tahuhu anchoring the pace attack, and Amelia Kerr in her prime, the White Ferns are banking on their senior core while also handing opportunities to six debutants.

From Flora Devonshire’s maiden ODI call-up to the wicketkeeping puzzle, we break down every angle—batting firepower, spin options, bowling depth, and the X-factor players who could shift New Zealand’s fortunes in India and Sri Lanka. Can the defending T20 champions carry their momentum into the 50-over format?

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 328 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. Sri Lanka’s squad for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 presents a fascinating balance of experience and youth. 

In this episode, we take a closer look at their overall composition — from Chamari Athapaththu’s pivotal role as captain and leading run-scorer to the stability offered by Harshitha Samarawickrama, Nilakshi de Silva, and Inoka Ranaweera. 

We evaluate the impact of Udeshika Prabodhani’s return on the pace unit, the depth of Sri Lanka’s spin core in subcontinental conditions, and the potential of emerging players like Kavisha Dilhari and Dewmi Vihanga to shape the campaign. 

With Sri Lanka co-hosting alongside India, we also analyze how home conditions, squad dynamics, and their historical record could influence their chances in the tournament opener and beyond.

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 327 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. South Africa have named their 15 for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, and the Proteas are chasing history.

Semi-finalists in the last ODI World Cup, back-to-back finalists in T20Is — can this be the year they finally lift their maiden ICC trophy?

In this episode, Janani of Sportsy Mathsy Tales joins us as we break down the squad in detail: from Laura Wolvaardt’s leadership at the top, to the firepower of Marizanne Kapp and Chloe Tryon, the spin of Nonkululeko Mlaba, and the exciting inclusion of 17-year-old Karabo Meso. 

We explore the strengths, weaknesses, and X-factors across the batting and bowling departments, while also asking the big question — is this the most balanced South African side yet?

Join us as we dive into the Proteas’ chances, key match-ups, and the storylines that could define their World Cup journey.

Please Note: This episode was recorded before the Pakistan vs South Africa 2025 series

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 326 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. In this episode, we revisit the 2013 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup — a tournament that was as dramatic off the field as it was on it. 

Hosted in India under the shadow of administrative decisions, last-minute venue shifts, and limited visibility, the event nonetheless produced unforgettable cricketing moments. 

From Sri Lanka’s stunning upsets and India’s faltering campaign, to West Indies’ fairytale run and Australia’s dominance, Ankit joins us to trace the highs, lows, and legacies of this edition. Along the way, we explore how the discourse around women’s cricket was shaped in 2013 and how it paved the way for the professional era we see today.

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!