This week, we’re thrilled to bring you the inspiring story of James Knight—a master storyteller, literacy advocate, cricket tragic and bestselling author.

In this heartfelt conversation, James reflects on his journey from bush cricket fields to discovering the rich tapestry of cultures through cricket. He opens up about his battles with depression and shares how his experiences have shaped a life dedicated to making a positive difference.

We also dive into his latest book, The Spirit of the Warriors, and explore how he uses storytelling to inspire others and foster a love of literacy.

Needless to say, we will ensure James shares with us who is on his invitation list to his dream cricket net session.

Don’t miss this powerful episode about cricket, culture, resilience, and the extraordinary impact the summer game can have on those connected to it. 

In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, Matt Ellis sits down with esteemed physiotherapist Patrick Farhart, who has worked with some of the most successful cricket teams around the world in a career spanning many years.

The conversation opens with Farhart's journey into cricket, a sport his family initially knew little about. From playing club cricket to an unexpected call-up to the Australian cricket team's 1989 Ashes tour, Farhart shares engaging anecdotes that brilliantly illustrate his passion for both cricket and physiotherapy.

Throughout the episode, key insights into building successful cricket teams are unveiled, discussing elements like leadership, openness, and communication. Patrick details his experiences with legendary cricketers and the impact of coaches like John Buchanan, shedding light on evolving coaching dynamics and team management strategies. He also delves into his profound learning experiences and the importance of work-life balance amid frequent travels.

Diving into injury prevention, particularly for fast bowlers, Farhart shares his desire to make lasting contributions to cricket through systematic research and cutting-edge methodologies. 

Patrick gives listeners a window into what it is like working in the larger than life Indian Premier League as well as some insights into his current role at Cricket NSW.

Of course we will ask Patrick who is three invites would be to a dream cricket net session.

This is an episode that you do not want to miss!

Please remember to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast on your favourite podcast provider and leave a positive review to help us to continue sharing stories that inspire a love of cricket.

Xara Jetly is a passionate and accomplished cricketer who is making waves in professional women's cricket. At just 22 years old, Xara has already established herself as a key player for Wellington and has experience playing in the UK to hone her skills further. Known for her extraordinary fielding abilities and unique approach to the game, she aims to revolutionise women's cricket while inspiring younger generations. Xara is a digital marketing professional and an emerging social media influencer dedicated to engaging and inspiring her followers with authentic content.

In this engaging episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis welcomes the dynamic Xara Jetly. A young lady who is living her dream, playing professional cricket and inspiring young athletes globally. From her beginnings in New Zealand to her current stint in the UK, Xara shares her journey, the challenges she faces, and her relentless drive to excel in the sport she loves.

Throughout the episode, Xara discusses her early love for sports and how cricket eventually became her primary focus. She highlights the significant roles played by influential coaches and the transition from recreational to professional cricket. Offering insights into her training regimes, mental conditioning, and the importance of fielding, Xara provides a comprehensive look into what it takes to succeed as a young female cricketer. She also delves into the impact of social media on her career, her burgeoning role as a digital entrepreneur, and the ways she aims to inspire future generations.

Needless to say, Xara enlightens us on who she would most like to invite to her dream cricket net session.

This is an episode that you do not want to miss!

Please remember to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast on your favourite podcast provider and leave a positive review to help us to continue sharing stories that inspire a love of cricket.

Richard Chee Quee, often remembered as a trailblazer in Australian cricket, carved a unique career on the field with his distinctive flair and talent. Chee Quee gained recognition playing first-class cricket as an opening batsman for New South Wales from the early 1990s. He is celebrated for his vivacious playing style and impressive performances, including a noteworthy century against the West Indies in Newcastle and a match-winning hundred in the 1993/4 Mercantile Mutual Cup Final against WA at the SCG. Chee Quee has been equally impactful off the field, inspiring many multi cultural kids to play and love the game. His passion for life continues showcasing his artistic side as the frontman of the band ‘Six & Out’, further cementing his reputation as a versatile entertainer.

In this captivating episode of the Cricket Library podcast, host Matt Ellis welcomes the former New South Wales cricketer to reflect upon his unique cricketing journey. The conversation promises an intimate exploration of Chee Quee's early fondness for the sport, shaped by iconic West Indies teams and rugged backyard matches with his brother Michael.

Delving deep into the narrative of Richard Chee Quee's foray into cricket, the episode recounts nostalgic tales of his initiation into organised cricket and the eventual progression onto the first-class stage with New South Wales. Discussions resonate with recounting his remarkable performances, key influences that shaped his career, and his present-day passions beyond the field.

The episode unearths the significance of heritage, brotherhood, and personal growth that extended from the green expanses of cricket grounds to the lively setting of music stages. The shared moments with his brother, the identification with the West Indies, and confronting adversity both on the field and through societal biases have shaped a multifaceted life. The insights gained from Chee Quee’s reflections reveal a universal truth: our beginnings often shape our paths, but it is our choices that write the story. Through it all, Richard's constant has been entertaining and uniting people, whether through sport or music, leaving an indelible mark not only in the archives of cricket but also in the hearts of music enthusiasts.

Please remember to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast on your favourite podcast provider and leave a positive review to help us to continue sharing stories that inspire a love of cricket.

Shane Jurgensen, former First Class cricketer and current head coach of the Wellington Firebirds, shares his journey in cricket and coaching with Matt Ellis on the Cricket Library podcast.

From his early days surrounded by cricket to playing for Queensland, Western Australia and Tasmania, Jurgensen discusses the challenges and successes he faced. He also delves into his coaching philosophy, emphasising the importance of empathy and building genuine relationships with players.

Jurgensen reflects on his time with the New Zealand Black Caps and their journey to winning the World Test Championship. He also introduces his new project aimed at helping cricketers of all levels improve their skills and prevent injuries.

Please remember to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast on your favourite podcast provider and leave a positive review to help us to continue sharing stories that inspire a love of cricket.

Step into the world of Courtney Sippel, a rising star from Country Queensland, leaving her mark with the Brisbane Heat in the WBBL and Queensland in the WNCL.

Delve deep with us as Courtney reveals the genesis of her cricketing passion, the relentless dedication it takes to secure a place in the QLD squad, her nuanced bowling strategies throughout the game, her journey to representing Australia A, and, of course, the dream lineup she'd pick for her ultimate cricket net session.

Don't forget to hit that subscribe button on the Cricket Library Podcast and share your positive reviews to help us to keep sharing stories like this one.

Surbhi Vaid is a young broadcaster on the rise, having worked as an on-air talent in the IPL and WPL.

She sits down with Matt Ellis to share the origins of her passion for cricket, embracing the nerves that come with being on camera, working with Aussie legend Brett Lee, the positive impact of the WPL and of course Surbhi will reveal the three people that she would invite to a dream Cricket Net session.

Please remember to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast on your favourite podcast provider and leave a positive review to help us to continue sharing stories that inspire a love of cricket.

Tatenda Taibu had a meteoric rise in the cricket world, making his First Class debut as a 16-year-old and taking on the Zimbabwean captaincy at just 20 years of age.

In this edition of the Cricket Library Podcast, Tatenda takes us back to the origins of his passion for the game, the influence of Andy Flower, Zimbabwe's memorable T20 win against a star-studded Australian side, some of his individual achievements, leaving the game to pursue his Christian faith, playing in the IPL and what he is up to now.

We of course make sure we ask him who he would invite to his dream cricket net session.

You can read his full story in his book Keeper of the Faith.

Please remember to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast on your favourite podcast provider and leave a positive review to help us to continue sharing stories that inspire a love of cricket.

Alan Curr has an adventurous spirit that has taken him to all corners of the globe. In this edition of the Cricket Library Podcast, he shares the origins of his passions for the game, organising a game of cricket on Mt Everest, landing a job with Japan cricket & the emergence of cricket in Japan.

The conversation would not be complete without Alan telling us who he would invite to his dream cricket net session.

Make sure you are following Japan Cricket on all of their social media platforms and read the full story of the cricket games on Mt Everest by getting yourself a copy of the book.

Dive into our latest Cricket Library Podcast episode featuring the incredible David Hussey! Join us as we explore the origins of David's cricketing passions, his breakthrough into the Victorian team, the unforgettable double century against NSW in Newcastle, and the thrill of representing Australia on the international stage. Discover the secrets behind multiple Sheffield Shield triumphs and gain insights into the positive impact of T20 cricket.

In our chat, David opens up about his transition from player to coach, shedding light on the invaluable lessons learned throughout his playing career. His wisdom and experience inspire us as we delve into the highs and lows of a remarkable cricketing journey.

But that's not all! David shares his dream net session lineup, featuring a mix of a cricketing legend, a hilarious comedian, and a baseball icon. Make sure you tune in to find out who is on the invitation list.

Listen now to be inspired, and subscribe for more great conversations that will keep your passion for the game burning. Don't miss out – your cricket library is waiting to be enriched!

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