A forgotten classic squeezed between a washout and a dud – India’s tour of New Zealand, 1998-99

A forgotten classic squeezed between a washout and a dud – India’s tour of New Zealand, 1998-99A forgotten classic squeezed between a washout and a dud – India’s tour of New Zealand, 1998-99

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In this podcast, we look back at India’s tour of New Zealand in 1998-99. India had pulled off a thrilling Test series win against Australia at home earlier in the year, followed by some memorable wins in ODI tournaments. There was a disheartening loss in the one-off Test in Zimbabwe


Pace, swing, cut and craft: 11 masterful spells in India

Pace, swing, cut, and craft: 11 masterful spells in IndiaPace, swing, cut, and craft: 11 masterful spells in India

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We are living in a golden age of Indian fast bowling. Pitches, conditions, match situation – nothing seems to matter. India’s bowling attack is ruthlessly targeting the opposition, and summoning magic deliveries at will. What better time to talk about our favorite quick bowling performances in Indian conditions – from


The pre-Test era: when Bangladesh fell in love with cricket

The pre-Test era: when Bangladesh fell in love with cricketThe pre-Test era: when Bangladesh fell in love with cricket

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Between 1947 and 1971, only one Pakistani cricketer from the east of the country was picked in the Test team. Then Bangladesh was born, and there were far more important matters to attend to than worrying about cricket. But the passion survived in pockets and slowly, through schools and club


A strike, a ban and a mountain to climb: India v Bangladesh Test series preview

A strike, a ban and a mountain to climb: India v Bangladesh Test series previewA strike, a ban and a mountain to climb: India v Bangladesh Test series preview

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We preview the upcoming 2-Test series between India and Bangladesh – which will include the first ever day-night Test to be held in India. Talking Points: Bangladesh’s tumultuous lead-up to the series The Shakib Al Hasan shocker Why would Bangladesh’s greatest-ever cricket overlook something so fundamental? How public sentiment fluctuated


Pakistan in 1999: the allure, the magic, and the heartbreak

Pakistan in 1999: the allure, the magic, and the heartbreakPakistan in 1999: the allure, the magic, and the heartbreak

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It was a year when everything came together… until it fell spectacularly apart. There was something magical about Pakistan in 1999… till they time they crumbled. For a generation of Pakistan fans, the year 1999 meant much. Shoaib Akhtar emerged as a force of nature. Shahid Afridi provided a glimpse


Cricket in Mumbai – stories, legends, and folkloreCricket in Mumbai – stories, legends, and folklore

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We are thrilled to bring you the 50th episode of the 81allout podcast. Our special guest for the occasion is Clayton Murzello, group sports editor of Mid-Day in Mumbai. We chat with Clayton about his journey – from running a bookstore, managing a cricket club, and covering local sports… before


South Africa embark on Mission: (Almost) Impossible

South Africa embark on Mission: (Almost) ImpossibleSouth Africa embark on Mission: (Almost) Impossible

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We preview the upcoming 3-Test series between India and South Africa – where points count for the World Test Championship. Talking Points: A rivalry that often goes under the radar South Africa’s historically impressive record in Asia An inexperienced batting line-up coming up against the world’s best side A chance