The Cerebral Cricketer

In this episode of The Cerebral Cricketer Podcast, we sit down with Sam Heazlett, a talented left-handed batsman who has represented Queensland in Sheffield Shield and One Day Cup cricket, starred for the Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League (BBL), and proudly earned an Australian ODI cap in 2017.

Sam opens up about his journey through the ranks of Australian cricket, from scoring a century on Sheffield Shield debut to sharing the dressing room with global superstars like AB de Villiers at the Brisbane Heat.

He reflects on the mental side of cricket, building self-belief as a young player, and adapting his game across formats including first-class, List A, and T20 cricket.

We explore:

🏏 Sam's breakout performances for Queensland and Australia

🔥 Lessons from playing alongside cricket legends in the BBL

🎯 The challenges of transitioning between red-ball and white-ball formats

🧠 Insights into mindset, mental toughness, and coaching younger players through his Perform Cricket program

🎓 How physiotherapy and exercise science shaped his approach to training and recovery

Whether you're a fan of the Big Bash League, follow Queensland cricket closely, or want to learn what it takes to succeed at the top level of the game, this episode is packed with stories and advice you won't want to miss.

📌 Subscribe to The Cerebral Cricketer for more deep-dive conversations with professional cricketers about the mental side of the game, preparation, and performance.

Sam Heazlett's Socials

https://www.instagram.com/performcricket/

https://www.instagram.com/samh_snaps/

In this episode of The Cerebral Cricketer, we sit down with Stephan Myburgh, the South African-born Dutch cricketer known for his fearless approach at the top of the order.

From his iconic 17-ball fifty in the 2014 T20 World Cup to helping the Netherlands pull off giant-killing performances against cricketing powerhouses, Stephan shares the mindset, faith, and preparation that shaped his career.

We explore:

✅ The story behind his move from South Africa to the Netherlands

✅ His mental approach to batting under pressure in T20s

✅ The unforgettable chase against Ireland in the 2014 T20 World Cup

✅ How faith and courage fueled his performances

✅ Lessons from facing world-class bowlers like Dale Steyn and Trent Boult

✅ Reflections on retirement and inspiring the next generation of cricketers

Whether you're an aspiring cricketer, a fan of Associate cricket, or someone fascinated by the mental side of elite sport, this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration.

🎧 Listen now and discover how faith, mindset, and hard work turned a dreamer into a history-maker.

👇 Subscribe for more episodes on the psychology of cricket https://youtube.com/@thecerebralcricketer

In this episode of The Cerebral Cricketer, we sit down with Curtis Campher, Ireland's all-format all-rounder.

From his early days playing backyard cricket in Johannesburg to delivering clutch performances for Ireland on the world stage, Curtis shares an unfiltered look into what fuels his game, both mentally and technically. We cover everything from his South African upbringing and multi-sport background (hockey and golf), to the psychological lessons passed down by his parents. Curtis reflects on why he never chased personal glory, what it means to be a true team-first player, and how his identity was shaped through adversity. Some of the standout moments include: ✅ The mental side of switching between formats – Tests, ODIs, T20s ✅ How his hockey background shaped his sweep shot mastery ✅ Facing world-class spinners like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi ✅ His unforgettable 4 wickets in 4 balls at the 2021 T20 World Cup ✅ Detailed insights into bowling strategy, planning for batters, and how to balance data with instinct ✅ Why range-hitting drills come down to just 3 technical cues ✅ His debut against England and how he mentally prepared for a 5-for-28 crisis situation ✅ The psychological cost of performance-based validation and how he grounds himself outside of cricket Curtis also shares rare insights into the role of team culture, the importance of preparation routines, and what separates good cricketers from great ones when it comes to decision-making under pressure. If you're a fan of cricket psychology, clutch performances, and learning how elite players think, prepare and adapt, this is an episode you don't want to miss. 👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more deep-dive conversations into the minds of cricketers.

We sit down with Aaron Johnson, the explosive Canadian opening batter with Jamaican roots, whose late start and relentless work ethic have turned him into one of the most feared T20 hitters in Associate cricket.

From herding goats in rural Jamaica to smashing sixes on the international stage, Aaron shares his journey of grit, growth, and the power of staying true to your game.

We talk farm life, cricket culture, mental resilience, training through Canadian winters, and his mindset on debuting for Canada at age 31.

He reflects on key mentors, time spent in England's club cricket scene, what he learned from the likes of Tim Southee, Chris Green, and Colin de Grandhomme, and why his motto remains: "See ball, hit ball."

🔎 Topics covered: The discipline farm life instilled in him His late bloom in professional cricket Life in Canada and qualifying for the national team Lessons from the Global T20 League

His mindset before making his international debut What it takes to rise from obscurity to the world stage

📍Whether you're a cricketer, coach, or just someone chasing a dream, this episode is filled with raw inspiration and grounded wisdom.

The Cerebral Cricketer Podcast is a deep dive into the psychological side of cricket.

Through exclusive interviews with cricketers, coaches, and experts, we explore the journey, mindset, thought processes, and mental resilience behind success.

From how batsmen sharpen their focus to the mental cues bowlers use for consistent execution, this podcast unpacks the cerebral side of the game - one conversation at a time.

Decode the Mind, Master Your Temperament!

Find us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Player.fm, PocketCasts

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram: @TheCerebralCricketer

TikTok: @TheCerebralCricketer

Twitter: @CerebralCricket

In this episode of The Cerebral Cricketer, we sit down with Will Bosisto — Player of the Tournament at the 2012 U19 World Cup — for an unfiltered conversation about the mental blueprint behind his journey: from prodigious talent to rebuilding his game and reigniting his career through T20 franchise cricket.

We explore:

✅ The pressures of early success and navigating setbacks

✅ The role of mindfulness, visualization, and breathing in his batting routine

✅ His influences — Mike Hussey, Damien Martyn, and subcontinent experiences

✅ Tactical breakdowns of T20 innings, including lessons from the BPL and Hussey's game model

✅ The support of his psychologist mother and mentor father

✅ His reflections on temperament, presence, and the psychology of elite performance

Plus, hear stories from:

🏏 Playing alongside Travis Head in crunch U19 WC moments

🏏 Facing a young Pat Cummins

🏏 The infamous man-cad vs Bangladesh

🏏 His reflections on a "second coming" in franchise cricket

📌 Whether you're a player, coach, or fan, this episode is a masterclass in the mental side of the game.

🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more deep dives with cricketers on mindset, performance, and resilience.

The Cerebral Cricketer Podcast is a deep dive into the psychological side of cricket.

Through exclusive interviews with cricketers, coaches, and experts, we explore the journey, mindset, thought processes, and mental resilience behind success.

From how batsmen sharpen their focus to the mental cues bowlers use for consistent execution, this podcast unpacks the cerebral side of the game - one conversation at a time.

Decode the Mind, Master Your Temperament!

Find us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Player.fm, PocketCasts

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram: @TheCerebralCricketer

TikTok: @TheCerebralCricketer

Twitter: @CerebralCricket

👇 Drop your thoughts or questions for Will in the comments below!

From street cricket to facing the world's best bowlers, Solomon Mire's journey to international cricket is nothing short of extraordinary.

In this jam-packed episode, Solomon opens up about his early days in Zimbabwe, training without gear, and the raw, fearless environment that shaped his explosive batting style.

He shares the behind-the-scenes stories of playing against future stars like Kohli, Williamson, and Hazelwood at the U19 World Cup—while borrowing kit from opposition teams.

We explore his emotional return to Zimbabwe after years in Melbourne, his ODI century against Sri Lanka, and the mindset that helped him face fast bowling with confidence, long before he ever wore a helmet.

Solomon also dives deep into the mental side of the game, working with elite coach Neil D'Costa, dealing with career-defining decisions, and building his post-cricket coaching platform, Advanced to Play.

This is a powerful conversation about resilience, belief, and becoming a cricketer on your own terms.

🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated with new episodes.

The Cerebral Cricketer Podcast is a deep dive into the psychological side of cricket.

Through exclusive interviews with cricketers, coaches, and experts, we explore the journey, mindset, thought processes, and mental resilience behind success.

From how batsmen sharpen their focus to the mental cues bowlers use for consistent execution, this podcast unpacks the cerebral side of the game - one conversation at a time.

Decode the Mind, Master Your Temperament!

Find us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Player.fm, PocketCasts

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram: @TheCerebralCricketer

TikTok: @TheCerebralCricketer

Twitter: @CerebralCricket

From winning the U19 World Cup alongside future stars like Shaun Marsh and Cameron White, to playing in front of 50,000 fans in Dhaka at 19 years of age, to delivering a mic'd-up Man of the Match performance in a Big Bash Final —Adam Crosthwaite's career is a rollercoaster of unforgettable moments.

You'll Hear About:

🏆 Teenage Triumphs – Winning the 2002 U19 World Cup undefeated (and why that squad produced many first-class players).

🎤 Big Bash Heroics – That mic'd-up *52* (31) in the 2007 final, complete with fake ramps and Alan Border's commentary in his ear.

🔥 Baptism by Fire – Facing 50,000 fans in Dhaka as a teen: "It felt like the stadium was shaking."

💡 Lessons from Legends – How playing with the likes of Warne, Hodge, and Maxwell shaped his game (and why "you never get a baggy green by accident").

🔥 The Double-Century Mindset – His secret to batting for *6+ hours* in grade cricket: "Pack clean kit for every session."

From the subcontinent's dustbowls to Sheffield Shield battles, Adam's stories are a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and why cricket is "meant to be fun."

Whether you're a player, fan, or just love a great underdog tale, this episode is packed with wisdom—and a few laughs.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the NOTIFICATION BELL so you never miss an episode.

The Cerebral Cricketer Podcast is a deep dive into the psychological side of cricket.

Through exclusive interviews with cricketers, coaches, and experts, we explore the journey, mindset, thought processes, and mental resilience behind success.

From how batsmen sharpen their focus to the mental cues bowlers use for consistent execution, this podcast unpacks the cerebral side of the game - one conversation at a time.

Decode the Mind, Master Your Temperament!

Find us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Player.fm, PocketCasts

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecerebralcricketer TikTok: @TheCerebralCricketer

Twitter: @CerebralCricket

We sit down with Queensland's Bryce Street, to dive deep into the mental side of cricket.

From overcoming nerves and self-doubt to scoring record-breaking innings (including his epic 345 off 434 balls), Bryce shares invaluable insights on what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of the game.

From managing negative self-talk to embracing simplicity at the crease, Bryce gives us a rare, honest look into the psychology of performance and what it means to trust your game even when the runs aren't flowing.

Whether you're a player, coach, or just a lover of the game, this episode is packed with takeaways on resilience, self-awareness, and the mental craft of batting.

🔹 Key Topics Discussed:

✅ Mindset & Mental Toughness – How Bryce deals with pressure, nerves, and self-doubt.

✅ Batting Strategies – The secrets behind his big hundreds and disciplined approach.

✅ Trigger Movements & Technique – Why some batters use them, and others don't.

✅ Lessons from Legends – Playing alongside Labuschagne, Khawaja, and Renshaw.

✅ Sports Psychology – The role of routines, breathwork, and visualization in performance.

✅ Facing World-Class Bowlers – His toughest opponents (including Nathan Lyon & Mitchell Starc).

🔥 Whether you're a cricketer, coach, or just love the game, this episode is packed with actionable advice to elevate your mental game.

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the NOTIFICATION BELL so you never miss an episode.

The Cerebral Cricketer Podcast is a deep dive into the psychological side of cricket.

Through exclusive interviews with cricketers, coaches, and experts, we explore the journey, mindset, thought processes, and mental resilience behind success.

From how batsmen sharpen their focus to the mental cues bowlers use for consistent execution, this podcast unpacks the cerebral side of the game - one conversation at a time.

Decode the Mind, Master Your Temperament!

Find us on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Player.fm, PocketCasts

Follow us on Social Media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecerebralcricketer

TikTok: @TheCerebralCricketer

Twitter: @CerebralCricket

Timestamps

00:00 Intro

01:10 Growing up with cricket and early sporting influences

03:00 Why Bryce became an opening batter

05:00 Left-hand batting, right-hand bowling: a natural advantage

07:30 The role Bryce's dad played in shaping his mental game

09:30 Junior cricket lessons: maturity over flash

11:00 Balancing tough coaching with support

13:30 Letting kids enjoy cricket vs overcoaching

15:00 Under-15 Nationals: nerves, failure & getting picked as a bowler

19:00 Cricket in the Netherlands: isolation, pressure & breakthrough

23:00 Accessing a sports psych: the start of mental transformation

25:00 Breaking routines to build mental flexibility

26:30 Breathwork, mindfulness & calming the chaos

30:00 The crucial first 30 balls: getting set

32:00 Managing mental downtime between deliveries

34:00 Breath control strategies during high-pressure situations

36:00 Meditation, visualization & prepping for bowlers

38:00 Using video footage without frying your brain

40:00 Playing 1st grade at 17 & scoring his debut hundred

42:00 Facing elite bowlers and discovering the trigger movement

46:00 Fraser-McGurk, individuality, and finding what works for you

49:00 Why self-awareness beats textbook technique

51:00 Trialling a front foot trigger – and it worked

52:30 The story behind Bryce's epic 345 for QLD 2nd XI

56:30 "Now make it 300" – Chris Hartley's motivating message

58:00 How to stay hungry & focused after reaching a milestone

1:00:00 The psychology of building huge innings

1:02:30 How Bryce keeps things simple when batting long

1:05:00 Developing batting clarity through lived experience

1:08:00 Why red-ball cricket exposes your true temperament

1:10:00 Lessons from failure, flow, and mental recalibration

1:13:00 Final thoughts on discipline, development & mindset

1:15:00 Advice for young cricketers: process, presence, and patience

1:17:00 What's next for Bryce Street?

1:19:00 Closing reflections & outro

In this episode, we chat to Gus Sloan, a superstar in the Global T20 Tournament "Last Man Stands (LMS)" (youngest anointed 'Legend' in LMS history!), to dive deep into his incredible journey, from playing rugby league as a teenager to becoming one of the most prolific players in LMS and Virtual Reality iB Cricket history.

With a batting average of 66.89 and a strike rate of 192.68 in LMS, Gus shares his secrets to success, the mental and physical preparation behind his game, and his transition into sports management with Grandstand Sports Management.

🔹 Key Topics Covered:

• Gus's early days in rugby league and how injury led him to cricket

• The rise to becoming a top-ranked LMS player globally

• Insights into batting and bowling strategies tailored for LMS

• The challenges and triumphs of representing Australia in LMS World Cups

• How virtual reality (IB Cricket) has transformed his training

• Launching his player agency and mentoring the next generation

Whether you're a cricket enthusiast, an aspiring player, or just love a great sports story, this episode is packed with actionable insights, hilarious anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of competitive cricket.

🔔 Subscribe to The Cerebral Cricketer for more in-depth conversations with cricketers, coaches, and sports personalities!

📌 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music & more!

Follow us on social media for updates! 📷 Instagram: @TheCerebralCricketer 🐦 Twitter: @CerebralCricket

Like, comment, and share if you enjoyed the conversation! 🚀

Timestamps

00:00:00 Introduction & Gus Sloan's LMS Achievements

00:04:54 Gus's Batting & Bowling Stats (Avg 66.89, SR 192)

00:08:37 Rugby League Background & Transition to Cricket

00:12:45 Injury & How LMS Became His Focus

00:17:42 Starting a Player Agency (Grandstand Sports)

00:24:32 Batting Mindset: Reacting vs. Overthinking

00:32:12 Facing International Players in LMS

00:39:37 Bowling Tactics & Training (Plyometrics, Speed)

00:47:52 LMS Rule Quirks (Home Runs, Steals, Double Plays)

00:54:22 Representing Australia in LMS World Cups (Kenya, India)

01:04:42 How to Get Selected for LMS Nationals

01:12:02 Favorite Cricketers (Maxwell, Smith) & SCG Experience

01:20:12 Ivy Cricket VR Training & World Records

01:29:22 Memorable LMS Innings & Close Losses

01:37:37 Final Advice for Aspiring LMS Players

01:39:22 Outro

I reflect on my conversation with Dutch international cricketer Shariz Ahmad and break down the mindset gems and strategic insights he shared.

We dive into:

✅ How Shariz developed an optimistic mindset from a young age ✅ The story of scouts discovering him at age 11 and his positive outlook on the pressure ✅ Being fast-tracked into the Netherlands cricket system ✅ How he plans his bowling strategies before the game and while fielding ✅ The bowlers he models his game on, including Rashid Khan and Adam Zampa ✅ What young spinners can learn from his approach to mindset, preparation, and creativity

If you're a young cricketer, coach, or cricket lover who wants to understand the mental side of the game, this is for you.

👉 Listen to the full conversation with Shariz Ahmad here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6EkS_y8FJZU

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes! 🧠🏏