The Grade Cricketer Should we care? with Alex Malcolm
Feb 17, 2026
Alex Malcolm, cricket journalist and analyst at ESPN Cricinfo, dissects Australia’s World Cup collapse and selection dilemmas. He breaks down batting failures, Cameron Green’s crossroads, and the struggle to juggle formats. They also cover bowling shortages, injury and workload problems, and how global T20 incentives shape Australia’s cricketing future.
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Episode notes
Test Cricket Still Dominates Public Attention
- The public's interest in Test cricket (e.g. the Ashes) still far outweighs attention to T20 events.
- This viewing reality weakens domestic T20 exposure and fan engagement.
Tom Hanks Buying Cricket Gear
- Tom Hanks and his son bought cricket gear at the North Sydney Great Chapel Centre, sparking curiosity.
- Pezza joked it looked like method acting or a role prep for Hanks.
Development Pathway Neglects T20 Skills
- Australia's development pyramid lacks intentional T20 skill training at grassroots and grade levels.
- Young players often only learn T20 craft at higher pathway levels, delaying specialised development.
