Never on the Backfoot: A Podcast

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!

Hi there! Welcome to Episode 282 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast.

In this episode, we dive into an in-depth discussion about the Indian Women’s cricket team, reflecting on their recent performances and future prospects.

Join us as Juili shares her insights on India’s ODI template, their preparation leading into a crucial World Cup year, and the strategies they need to employ for success.

We break down the highs and lows of India's recent series, including the whitewash against Australia and the triumphant series win against the West Indies. We preview the upcoming Ireland series, highlighting exciting new selections, Smriti Mandhana’s captaincy, and the opportunities for young talents like Raghvi Bist. Can Ireland challenge India? As the World Cup draws closer, we also discuss India’s final 15 and the roadmap for a successful campaign.

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 281 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. In this episode, we dive deep into the psychological and emotional landscape of the IPL & WPL 2025 auctions.

From the immense pressure on young players purchased for eye-watering sums to the heartache faced by those left unsold, we explore the mental toll that comes with being part of cricket's most lucrative tournament. 

How does a hefty price tag shape a player's mindset and performance on and off the field? What happens when a talented player is snubbed despite their potential? And, most importantly, how do these athletes navigate the highs and lows of an auction that can make or break their careers?

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on how the IPL auctions are not just about numbers, but about the human emotions and resilience behind every bid.

On the podcast today for this discussion, we have Dr. Sahen Gupta, Head Sport Psychologist at Cricket Scotland. He is also a Sports & Performance Psychologist and Founder of Discovery Sport & Performance Labs. He specialises in Resilience research and applied practice in elite sports. 

His aim is to help teams and individual athletes develop their own potential and optimise resilience so as to target long-term success. Additionally, he has worked with various Premier League Clubs in the UK and Team GB Tennis to name a few.

Do check out Discovery Sports Lab on Instagram and their website for some amazing stuff that his team is doing.

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 280 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. Today, we have a special guest joining us on the Podcast. She is a rising star from the UAE national cricket team, Kavisha Kumari Egodage!

A talented all-rounder, Kavisha has made her mark on the international stage, showing both passion and skill in every match.

From her early days in cricket to representing the UAE in global tournaments, Kavisha’s journey has been one of determination, resilience, and an unwavering love for the game. In this episode, we’ll get to know the woman behind the bat and ball—her inspirations, challenges, and what it takes to excel in the fast-paced world of international cricket.

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 279 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. In this episode, we dive deep into the often-overlooked aspect of cricket: the mental game.

Our guest is a seasoned mental strengthening coach who works with individuals to enhance their focus, resilience, and psychological well-being on and off the field. 

Whether it’s handling pressure in a crucial match, recovering from a slump in form, or building a strong team mentality, we explore how mental strength is just as vital as physical ability in modern cricket.

On the podcast today for this discussion, we have Tribenee Bhattacharyya, a mental strengthening coach for the Assam Cricket Academy. She has worked 3 years as the mental conditioning coach in the senior and junior women’s state team of Assam. She is also the founder of Optimista Learning Hub and the author of book- ‘Peace Initiatives in Assam Rehabilitation and Meaningful Journey 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, Google 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 278 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast.

In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of cricket statistics with a passionate data enthusiast - Kausthub Gudipati known for sharing captivating facts and trivia about both men's and women's cricket.

Join us as we explore his journey from casual fan to stats aficionado, uncovering the moments that sparked his love for the game and the numbers that tell its story.

We’ll discuss the evolution of cricket statistics, how they shape perceptions of players and teams, and the impact of technology on the future of the sport.

With insights on the growth of women's cricket and the cultural nuances influencing data representation, this episode is a must-listen for cricket fans and data nerds alike.

We also look at how stats can enhance our understanding of the game, the role of social media in fan engagement, and what the future holds for cricket analytics.

On the podcast today for this discussion, we have Kausthub Gudipati. He is a passionate cricket number cruncher who tweets at @kaustats.

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, Google 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 277 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast.

In this episode, we dive into the announcement of Pakistan women's cricket central contracts for 2024-25. We’ll explore what this means for the future of women’s cricket in the country, and how these contracts could shape the next generation of players. 

Join us as we break down the key highlights, analyzing both the hits and misses of the new contract list. From player inclusions to exclusions, and what this move signals for the overall growth of women’s cricket in Pakistan – it’s a comprehensive look. 

We’ll also discuss how these contracts compare to those in other cricketing nations and what steps Pakistan can take to ensure sustained growth and visibility for their women cricketers. 

On the podcast today for this discussion, we have Aayush Puthran. He was born in Mumbai and currently writes for Cricbuzz. He is also the author of ‘Unveiling Jazbaa: A History of Pakistan Women's Cricket’.

Over the last nine years, he has written about the game and the players around the world, specialising in women’s cricket and cricket administration. Follow him on Twitter @aayushputhran.

🚨A couple of corrections in the episode, please note:

If you are new here- 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 276 of Never on the Backfoot Podcast. In this episode, we will discuss and review the Senior Women’s T20 Trophy 2024–25 and this was the 16th edition. The tournament took place between 17th October and 12th November 2024.

37 teams competed in the tournament, divided into two groups of eight and three groups of seven, playing each other side in their group once. The winner of each group and one second placed team progressed straight to the quarter-finals, whilst the other second-placed teams in each group progressed to the pre-quarter-finals. 

The groups worked on a points system with positions within the groups being based on the total points. Mumbai won the tournament this time.

This episode will discuss the tournament and everything about it!

On the podcast today for this discussion, we have Prajin from Kerala. He follows women's cricket passionately and handles Women’s CricCraze.

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, Google 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 🌻