This week on the podcast, I am joined by Saurabh Walkar, an esteemed analyst renowned for his contributions to franchises in the IPL, WPL, PSL, CPL, The Hundred, and international teams like New Zealand and Afghanistan. From his Mumbai upbringing to his role as an IPL analyst, we delve into his insights on planning for auctions, adapting to evolving cricket analysis, and his current focus on in-game strategies and match-ups. Plus, we discuss the future of women's cricket in India. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on Saurabh's journey and the ever-changing world of analytics and franchise cricket!

This week on Analyst Chat, listen to my hugely insightful conversation with Dan Weston. We delved into his unique journey from the world of professional poker to becoming a data analyst for major cricket tournaments like the IPL with the Punjab Kings and the Bengal Tigers. His expertise has also been instrumental in shaping strategies for county cricket Leicestershire, and he currently plays a pivotal role with Kent.

From discussing the intricacies of league structures to explaining how drafts and auctions play out in the cricketing world, Dan provides invaluable insights into the behind-the-scenes operations of cricket teams and franchises. 📊

Don't miss out on this fascinating discussion as we explore Dan's journey, his approach to strategic decision-making, and the evolving landscape of cricket analytics.

In this week's Analyst Chat, I'm joined by Benji Hoppitt, an accomplished cricket analyst with extensive experience. We delve into Benji's journey from cricket enthusiast to professional analyst, exploring his roles with the Sydney Sixers in the WBBL, Mumbai Indians in the WPL, and the New South Wales Breakers. From his involvement in the First WPL auction to winning the inaugural tournament, we discuss his relationships with coaches and players and how he informs decision-making through analysis. Additionally, we touch on the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, including Benji's personal pursuits like his running TikTok account and love for Coffee. Join us for an insightful conversation as we discuss Benji's remarkable journey and the significance of balancing his professional and personal life.

In this week's Analyst Chat, I am joined by Jarrod Kimber, a Cricket Writer, Director of the documentary film 'Death of a Gentleman' and Analyst. We discussed his early days playing cricket in Melbourne and explored his journey from blogger to cricket writer at ESPN and various other publications. We then delved into his experiences working as an analyst for the Melbourne Stars in the BBL and the St Lucia Stars in the CPL, where he transitioned into the role of general manager midway through the tournament.

Lastly, we touched on Jarrod's plans and the challenges he aims to tackle in Cricket management and Scouting. Jarrod is not only a great storyteller but also deeply passionate about integrating analytics into the game.

In this week's Analyst Chat, I have the pleasure of being joined by James Maby, Lead Analyst for Northampton County Cricket Club. Our conversation takes a captivating turn as James shares how his early experiences in education and collaboration with Rugby referees in Dubai significantly contributed to his personal development. We then dive into the core of our discussion, exploring James's role as an Analyst in areas such as overseas recruitment. Gain insights into the expanding responsibilities of cricket analysts in shaping team dynamics, particularly in First Class County Cricket. It was a delightful episode to record, and I hope you enjoy listening.

The Catch It Podcast is back! We're kicking off the New Year with an interview featuring Arjun Verma, the COO of the ball tracking app Full Track AI. This marks the beginning of a new series called Analyst Chat. Throughout this series, I'll be interviewing fellow analysts and key figures with unique insights into cricket analysis

Super Six is back! In this episode, I sit down with Sophie Luff - Two times KSL T20 winner and Captain of the Western Storm regional cricket team - on the Catch It podcast, to discuss her ultimate six-a-side team, choosing only from players she's played with or against.

In our discussion, we cover her journey in captaincy, who has the potential to score the first hundred in the women's Hundred and of course her "batter heavy" Sixs cricket team.

Don't miss this insightful episode!"

"On this episode of the Catch-It podcast, I'm joined by Brian Caine! Brian is a professional umpire working in New York. He has worked in American cricket for a number of years, as well as has vast knowledge about the history of the sport in and out of the States. We discussed where cricket in the States is right now, the structure of minor and soon-to-be Major League Cricket, and the possibilities for US players in the future. 

Our Game Changer of the week is left-arm death pace bowler Phani Simhadri! Simhadri's action echoes the great Lasith Malingas, and he has had great success, winning the minor league MVP and smashing the record for most wickets taken in the league. His low arm action and deceptive variations have had opposition batters struggling to get him away in those crucial death overs. 

Here are Brian's socials: 

Tik Tok: @explodingoldfish

Twitter: @BryanRCaine."

In part two of our discussion, professional umpire Brian Caine and I delve deeper into the development of playing pathways in US cricket, leading us to this week's Young Gun. Mathew Tromp is a South African-born cricketer who plays minor-league cricket for the Houston Hurricanes.

A tall, athletic right-arm seamer, he has made a strong impression in his first season and has also applied his skills in other leagues, including the Pakistan Junior League. 

Alice Dixon Returns for her Second Spell on the podcast! We chat about the WPL and the excitement that has enveloped the tournament's early stages. Furthermore, we talk about its potential for bigger and better future editions! 

It's a truly Indian affair with Both the players we discuss opening the batting for India in internationals and for their new WPL franchises. 

Game changer: The Top price tag, classy opening left-hander,  Smriti Mandhana!

Young Gun: The Delhi power hitter and Under 19s world cup winning captain, Shafali Verma!

Recorded: 8/3/2023