Test Match Special

Mark Chapman is joined by former England internationals Phil Tufnell and Georgia Elwiss, as well as Kent's Sam Billings to look at how England's men and women's sides are shaping up ahead of their respective World Cups.

They discuss Jofra Archer's potential return to international cricket in this week's T20 series against Pakistan and the impact the fast bowler could have.

Bowler Hannah Rainey joins the pod to tell us about Scotland's qualification for the women's T20 World Cup and giving up her career as a vet to focus full time on cricket.

And we have the latest from the Indian Premier League as the tournament reaches its knockout stages.

TIMECODES

Alison Mitchell is joined by former England bowlers Katherine Sciver-Brunt and Alex Hartley to review the 3-0 T20 series win against Pakistan. They look at the positives for England, including Danni Wyatt's fine innings on Sunday at Headingley. They also look at where England need to improve, including whether more is needed from the side's younger players, ahead the T20 World Cup in Bangladesh. We also hear from Wyatt and captain Heather Knight.

Kate and Alex are joined by Kathryn and Sarah Bryce in this week’s pod. The pair reveal all about Scotland’s World Cup qualification, including the celebrations after their decisive victory over Ireland.

Alex reports back on her new job and Kate tells us about the podcast’s youngest listener.

Nikesh Rughani, Abhishek Jhunjhunwala and Steven Finn bring you all the latest from the Indian Premier League as Rajasthan Royals secure a play-off spot following Delhi Capitals' victory over Lucknow Super Giants.

They look at whether Royal Challengers Bengaluru can snatch a play-off spot after recovering from an awful start to the tournament. And the panel look at who'll be most affected by the departure of England's players.

Managing Director of England Men’s Cricket Rob Key tells Kevin Howells exactly how he, along with Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes, discussed with Jimmy Anderson the decision for the bowler to retire whilst also talking about the impact Anderson has had throughout his England career and the opportunity it presents for someone to “step up” from county cricket.

Key also gives updates on Ben Stokes & Jofra Archer.

Also, Key tells Kevin that it’s “quality not quantity” when it to comes to calls for shortening the domestic schedule. Key had a seventeen-year career in county cricket and wants the best conditions for cricketers to develop and be better placed for making the jump from the County Championship to international level.

Plus, his take on the County Championship’s reaction to the use of the Kookaburra ball.

Alex recounts a chaotic trip to the capital in the latest episode of No Balls, while Kate has some fascinating insight on playing in two close encounters for Thunder in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy. And we've plenty of listener messages and emails.

12 months after that dramatic Ashes summer, Australian spin bowler Nathan Lyon is back in the UK with Lancashire in the County Championship.

He spoke to BBC Sport’s Stephan Shemilt about experiencing life in the North West, having to leave the 2023 Ashes early through injury, and how he has changed as a person throughout his career.

And he offers an intriguing prediction as to how last summer's Ashes would have gone if he'd played all five matches.

Nikesh Rughani, BBC Cricket reporter Henry Moeran and former England wicketkeeper James Foster bring you the latest from the Indian Premier League.

They ask if Rajasthan Royals should be concerned after losing top spot following back-to-back defeats. And after Sanju Samson once again impressed with the bat, could he force his way into India’s World T20 side?

There’s also a focus on new leaders Kolkata Knight Riders, with James giving an insight into what it’s like to be involved with the franchise.

And the team also look at why Mumbai Indians have struggled, despite having some of the leading Indian talent at their disposal.

Kevin Howells, Tymal Mills & Emily Windsor debate the PCA's survey calling for a reduction in County Cricket.

Chair of Sussex County Cricket Club, Jon Filby, rejects calls for fewer matches to be played in the County Cricket season.

Jason Kerr, Head Coach of Somerset County Cricket Club, tells us what it's like to be in a demanding schedule.

Plus, Will MacPherson of the Telegraph outlines the main areas of debate and attempts to find answers quickly.

After time away in the Lake District with her England teammates, Kate Cross tells Alex Hartley all about a fun - and tough - few days. Plus, plenty of emails to get through!