Tim Macdonald: From Player to Mentor

Posted on June 13, 2023 by thecricketlibrary

Welcome to the latest edition of the Cricket Library Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Tim Macdonald who has forged a career that spans across various roles in the sport.

Join us as we delve into Tim’s passion for cricket, tracing back to the early days and the driving forces that ignited his love for the game. We explore the pivotal moments that led to his breakthrough into First-Class Cricket, the challenges faced, and the triumphs celebrated along the way.

Tim shares his experiences of moving from Western Australia to Tasmania, shedding light on the transition and its impact on his career and personal growth. We also gain valuable insights into Tim’s foray into coaching, the joys and challenges of guiding aspiring cricketers, and his unique perspective to the coaching arena.

Finally, we uncover the secrets behind Western Australia’s recent success on the field. We explore the factors contributing to the team’s achievements and the strategies implemented to foster a culture of excellence and growth.

Don’t miss out on this fascinating conversation, and be sure to subscribe to the Cricket Library Podcast and leave a review to help us to continue to start conversations that inspire a love of cricket.

Tim Macdonald Career Stats

Competition	FC	LA	T20
Matches	21	1	3
Runs scored	120	–	8
Batting average	6.31	–	–
100s/50s	0/0	–	0/0
Top score	17	–	8*
Balls bowled	3,393	48	66
Wickets	50	0	3
Bowling average	35.30	–	22.00
5 wickets in innings	1	–	0
10 wickets in match	0	–	0
Best bowling	6/40	–	1/18
Catches/stumpings	8/–	1/–	0/–

Paul Van Meekeren – Associate Cricket To World Stage – The Cricket Library

In this episode of The Cricket Library Podcast, Dutch international Paul van Meekeren takes us inside one of the most remarkable journeys in modern cricket. From a six-over thriller where he claimed four wickets against Ireland, to battling through shin splints in his very first international appearance, Paul opens up on the resilience it takes to survive and thrive as an Associate cricketer. We dive into the unforgettable high of becoming the first Dutch homegrown player to win the Caribbean Premier League, and relive the heart-stopping moment the Netherlands qualified for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. He also relives the thrill of the Netherlands’ famous victory over South Africa at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in Adelaide—one of the most unforgettable moments in Dutch cricket history. Away from the spotlight, Paul reflects on the simple beginnings—Saturday mornings, ice cream, and a childhood dislike of the helmet. This is a story of grit, perspective, and passion—an unfiltered look at life on the global cricket stage. 🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe for more stories from the world of cricket.

Remembering Riding Mill Cricket Club’s Historic Dice Cricket Virtual Tour of Australia

Posted on June 12, 2023 by thecricketlibrary

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, when cricket around the world was put on hold, a group of cricket-starved Englishmen and enthusiastic Australian cricketers decided to answer the call for the game to be played. Riding Mill Cricket Club, an English cricket team, embarked on a unique virtual tour of Australia in 2020, bringing the excitement of cricket to life through dice cricket. Led by Matt Ellis, the Australian tour coordinator from the Cricket Library podcast, the Riding Mill Cricket Club’s dice cricket tour brought together players and fans from different corners of the world. This article delves into the concept of dice cricket, the historic virtual tour, and the impact it had on the participating teams.

The Advent of Dice Cricket: Dice cricket has a rich history, and for Matt Ellis, it has been a long-standing passion since he discovered the game as a child. The concept is simple: players roll a dice, and the numeric value on the dice determines the outcome of each delivery. A one represents a single, a three signifies three runs, and a five triggers an appeal for a wicket. A subsequent roll of the dice determines the mode of dismissal, adding to the excitement and anticipation of the game.

Connecting Through Cricket: The Riding Mill Cricket Club’s virtual tour of Australia came to fruition when Brian Watson, a member of the club, reached out to Matt Ellis through social media. The team from England was seeking an opportunity to continue playing cricket and connect with fellow cricket enthusiasts during the pandemic. The dice cricket format provided the perfect platform for socialising, banter, and camaraderie among the players, despite being physically distant. Through social media channels and WhatsApp groups, the cricketers from Riding Mill Cricket Club could enjoy the thrill of the game and maintain their friendships in a unique way.

The Tour: The virtual tour commenced with the Cricket Library Invitational 11 taking on the Riding Mill Cricket Club in the tour opener, held at Matt Ellis’s residence in Burrabadine, near Dubbo. This double-header event kicked off the tour, which spanned various locations in Australia. The participating clubs included the Dubbo CYMS Cougars, Wagga Wagga RSL Bulldogs, Kissing Point Cricket Club, UTS North Sydney District Cricket Club, West Meadows Cricket Club, St Kevin’sOld Boys, Parkdale, and the Morley District Cricket Club. The tour concluded with a game against the prestigious Morley District Cricket Club in Perth.

Engaging Australian Clubs: Brian Watson was pivotal in engaging cricket clubs from across Australia to participate in the virtual tour. Through persistent communication and his passion for dice cricket, Watson managed to secure the involvement of various clubs, allowing them to participate in this unique cricketing experience.

Following the Action: To keep cricket enthusiasts engaged and updated, the tour scores were posted on the Cricket Library’s Twitter handle (@CricketLibrary). Score updates on Twitter were the primary method of following the action. The clubs themselves distributed the scores within their own groups, generating banter and excitement throughout the tour.

Conclusion: The Riding Mill Cricket Club’s dice cricket virtual tour of Australia in 2020 brought the joy of cricket to life during a time when the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the unique format of dice cricket, players and fans were able to connect, compete, and experience the thrill of the game from the comfort of their homes. The tour showcased the power of cricket in bringing people together, transcending physical boundaries, and creating a sense of camaraderie and community, even in challenging times.

This interview originally aired on ABC Radio on June 12, 2020, when the world was shutting down as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Paul Van Meekeren – Associate Cricket To World Stage – The Cricket Library

Wayne Holdsworth’s Unforgettable Innings: A Remarkable 49 Not Out in the Mercantile Mutual Cup

Posted on June 9, 2023 by thecricketlibrary

In the world of cricket, there are moments that etch themselves into the annals of history. Wayne Holdsworth’s innings of 49 not out in the Mercantile Mutual Cup is one such unforgettable feat. On that day, everything aligned for the New South Wales cricketer, as he displayed immense skill, determination, and a touch of magic. Let’s delve into the remarkable innings that left fans in awe and etched Holdsworth’s name in cricketing folklore.

Recalling that fateful day, Wayne Holdsworth reflects, “It was one of those days that just everything went right.” As he walked out to bat, his captain, Mark Taylor, gave him a modest target of reaching 280-290. Little did they know what was about to unfold, as Holdsworth unleashed a display of power and precision.

With each swing of the bat, Holdsworth connected with the ball perfectly. Boundaries flowed effortlessly, and the crowd watched in awe as the ball disappeared over the ropes time and time again. Holdsworth remembers, “I swung, and I just connected with it. They could go out of the fence or into the fence.”

The year saw the fastest half-century record up for grabs, with Damien Martyn leading the race with 34 balls. Wayne Holdsworth, however, was in a league of his own on track to surpass the record comfortably, leaving everyone astonished. The momentum of his innings was simply unparalleled, and he left the opposition in disarray.

As the innings reached its climax, Wayne Holdsworth needed three runs off the final ball to complete a well-deserved half-century. Unfortunately, he managed only two runs, falling agonisingly short of the milestone. As he returned to the dressing room, there was an eerie silence. Mark Waugh broke the tension, telling Holdsworth, “Well, if you could bowl you’d be a good all-rounder,”

In a gesture that encapsulated the team’s appreciation for Holdsworth’s valiant knock, Mark Waugh handed him a signed bat with a heartfelt message. It read, “To Wayne Holdsworth, all the best if you could bowl you’d be a good all rounder Mark Waugh.” This souvenir served as a constant reminder of the memorable day.

Wayne Holdsworth’s innings of 49 not out in the Mercantile Mutual Cup remains etched in the memories of cricket fans worldwide. It was a display of power, precision, and sheer audacity that left spectators in awe. While falling agonisingly short of a half-century, Holdsworth’s innings showcased his ability to seize the moment and elevate his team’s chances. His legacy serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of cricket and the enduring spirit of those who play the game with passion and skill.

Wayne Holdsworth Career Stats

Competition	First-class	List A
Matches	68	35
Runs scored	399	107
Batting average	7.82	21.40
100s/50s	0/0	0/0
Top score	34	49*
Balls bowled	11,525	1,656
Wickets	212	39
Bowling average	32.75	29.17
5 wickets in innings	11	1
10 wickets in match	1	–
Best bowling	7-41	5-28
Catches/stumpings	28/0	8/0

Paul Van Meekeren – Associate Cricket To World Stage – The Cricket Library

Tahlia Wilson’s Dream Net Session: A Unique Lineup of Legends

Posted on June 8, 2023 by thecricketlibrary

The Duchess of Cambridge bats to The Duke of Cambridge’s bowling as they participates in a 2015 Cricket World Cup event in Christchurch during the eighth day of their official tour to New Zealand. PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo

Dream net sessions offer a chance for athletes to envision a gathering of their favourite personalities from different domains. During a recent episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, rising cricket star Tahlia Wilson shared her dream net session lineup. Her choices were unconventional yet intriguing. In this blog post, we explore Tahlia Wilson’s dream net session guest list and delve into the reasons behind her selection.

The First Invitee: Kate Middleton, The Duchess of Cambridge

Tahlia Wilson surprised everyone with her first choice: Kate Middleton, The Duchess of Cambridge. Wilson admires Middleton for her remarkable accomplishments and her role as a positive role model for everyone. What makes this choice even more intriguing is Middleton’s love for sports, particularly hockey. Wilson believes that Middleton’s never-say-die attitude and background in hockey would make her an excellent all-rounder in the net session. She would no doubt chime in with some good banter behind the stumps to add an extra element of fun to the session.

The Second Invitee: Benji Marshall

As a passionate West Tigers fan, Tahlia Wilson couldn’t resist inviting Benji Marshall, a legendary figure in NRL (National Rugby League), to her dream net session. Marshall has been Wilson’s favourite NRL player since she started following the sport. Despite the West Tigers’ recent struggles, Wilson cherishes the memories of their 2005 Premiership win. With hopes of organising a Thunder celeb match one day, Wilson aspires to see Marshall showcase his skills on the cricket field. Perhaps Marshall’s sporting background will provide an interesting twist to the session and captivate everyone’s attention.

The Third Invitee: AB de Villiers

To round off her dream net session, Tahlia Wilson turned to cricket and invited the remarkable AB de Villiers. Known for his unorthodox playing style and fearless approach, de Villiers has always been a favourite for cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Wilson admires de Villiers’ unique way of playing the game and his ability to take on any challenge. She finds his technique and mindset fascinating, often watching videos where de Villiers explains his strategies and techniques. Having de Villiers present at the dream net session would undoubtedly provide invaluable tips and insights, making it an extraordinary experience for everyone involved.

The Dream Net Session: An Unforgettable Gathering

Tahlia Wilson’s dream net session lineup showcases her diverse interests and admiration for individuals from various fields. The convergence of Kate Middleton, Benji Marshall, and AB de Villiers promises a session filled with excitement, skill, and an exchange of ideas. This eclectic mix of personalities guarantees a unique experience, with each invitee bringing their own perspectives and expertise to the table.

Dream net sessions allow athletes to imagine extraordinary collaborations, transcending the boundaries of their respective sports. Tahlia Wilson’s dream net session guest list featuring Kate Middleton, Benji Marshall, and AB de Villiers reflects her admiration for influential figures who have made a significant impact in their fields. This lineup represents a fusion of talent, determination, and passion, creating an atmosphere ripe for learning, enjoyment, and unforgettable memories.

Coming Soon – Tim MacDonald: From Player to Mentor

Posted on June 6, 2023 by thecricketlibrary

Coming soon to the Cricket Library Podcast, we sit down with Tim MacDonald, who has forged a career that spans across various roles in the sport.

Join us as we delve into the origins of Tim’s passion for cricket, tracing back to the early days and the driving forces that ignited his love for the game. We explore the pivotal moments that led to his breakthrough into First-Class Cricket, the challenges faced, and the triumphs celebrated along the way.

Tim shares his experiences of making the move from Western Australia to Tasmania, shedding light on the transition and the impact it had on his career and personal growth. We also gain valuable insights into Tim’s foray into coaching, the joys and challenges of guiding aspiring cricketers, and the unique perspective he brings to the coaching arena.

Finally, we uncover the secrets behind Western Australia’s recent success on the field. We explore the factors that have contributed to the team’s achievements and the strategies implemented to foster a culture of excellence and growth.

Paul Van Meekeren – Associate Cricket To World Stage – The Cricket Library

The Challenges and Rewards of Umpiring Cricket: A Conversation with Peter Parker

Posted on May 29, 2023 by thecricketlibrary

In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, host Matt Ellis sits down with renowned cricket umpire Peter Parker. Peter shares his journey from being a talented cricketer to becoming an umpire, the challenges and rewards of being an umpire in the sport he loves, and the thrill of witnessing spin bowling legend Shane Warne in action from the best seat in the house.

Peter also talks about some of the controversies he has been a part of as an umpire, and how he dealt with those situations by owning his mistakes and moving forward. He shares insights into the epic One Day International at the SCG when Michael Bevan hit a four off the last ball, and how he managed the pressure in that moment.

Through his stories and experiences, Peter highlights the importance of having a passion for the game, staying focused under pressure, and always striving to improve. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves cricket, whether you are a player, a fan, or just curious about the inner workings of the game.

Paul Van Meekeren – Associate Cricket To World Stage – The Cricket Library

Jannatul Sumona: A Young Cricketer’s Journey of Sacrifice, Success and Inspiration

Posted on May 15, 2023 by thecricketlibrary

New Episode Alert!

Tomorrow morning, we are thrilled to bring you an exciting new episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, and this time, we have a special guest from the world of cricket. Get ready to be inspired by the remarkable journey of Bangladesh and ACT Meteors star Jannatul Sumona!

Jannatul Sumona, a name that resonates with passion, skill, and determination, has made her mark in the cricketing world. Join us as we delve into her emerging career, exploring the highs, the lows, and the lessons she has learned.

We’ll uncover her experiences representing Bangladesh, hear captivating stories from her time in Australia and gain insight into her approach to the game.

Whether you’re a fan of Jannatul Sumona, a cricket enthusiast, or love hearing inspiring stories of dedication and perseverance, this episode is a must-listen. Join us tomorrow as we learn from Jannatul’s experiences and gain a deeper understanding of her journey as a professional cricketer.

Don’t miss out! Tune in to the Cricket Library Podcast tomorrow morning to catch this incredible episode featuring Jannatul Sumona. Stay updated by subscribing to our podcast on your favourite streaming platforms or visiting our website.

Get ready to be inspired!

Paul Van Meekeren – Associate Cricket To World Stage – The Cricket Library

Tahlia Wilson: From Backyard to Breakers

Posted on May 2, 2023 by thecricketlibrary

Tahlia Wilson of the Thunder in action as wicket keeper during the Women’s Big Bash League WBBL Semi Final match between the Brisbane Heat and the Sydney Thunder at North Sydney Oval, on November 26, 2020, in Sydney, Australia (Photo by Izhar Khan/NurPhoto)

Welcome to the latest series of the Cricket Library Podcast with your host, Matt Ellis.

In this episode, Matt sits down with Tahlia Wilson, the talented cricketer from New South Wales. Tahlia shares her inspiring journey from playing cricket in the backyard to being part of the Breakers Squad, scoring her first WNCL Hundred and winning a Big Bash title with the Sydney Thunder.

Tahlia shares her experiences of turning 21 while in the WBBL Bubble and dealing with setbacks in her career. She also talks about how playing hockey has helped her in her pursuit of excellence as a cricketer. Tahlia’s passion for the game and her dedication towards improving her skills make for an engaging conversation.

In this podcast, Tahlia also selects her three dream net session partners and reveals what makes them the perfect picks. Her insights and anecdotes will not only entertain you but also give you an insight into the life of a professional cricketer.

So, sit back and tune in to this exciting episode of the Cricket Library Podcast with Tahlia Wilson, as she shares her journey and gives us a glimpse into her world as a professional cricketer.

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

Paul Van Meekeren – Associate Cricket To World Stage – The Cricket Library

Inside the mind of Aiden Blizzard: Who would he choose for his dream net session?

Posted on April 18, 2023 by thecricketlibrary

When it comes to cricket, every player has their dream net session, where they can face the best bowlers and learn from the best batsmen. Aiden Blizzard, a former T20 power hitter, shared his own dream net session and named four players that he would love to have join him. For Blizzard, this would be the ultimate opportunity to improve his game and learn from some of the best in the business. The players that Blizzard selected for his dream net session include his long-time friend and fast bowler Clint McKay, Afghanistani leg-spinner Rashid Khan, West Indian all-rounder Kieron Pollard, and former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey. Let’s take a closer look at each of these players and why they would make the perfect net session partners for Aiden Blizzard.

Clint McKay

For Aiden Blizzard, selecting his dream net session was an easy choice. The former left-handed power hitter knew exactly who he wanted to invite: his long-time friend and fellow fast bowler, Clint McKay. The two have a history together, having played together in the Under-16s Dowling Shield, for Victoria, as well as in the Mumbai Indians and Sydney Thunder. According to Blizzard, he and McKay have always had competitive net sessions, and he admires McKay’s skills and work ethic. Having McKay at the nets would not only provide a great challenge for Blizzard, but it would also be a chance for the two friends to catch up and reminisce about their shared experiences in cricket.

Rashid Khan

One of the players that Aiden Blizzard would most like to face in the nets is Afghanistani leg-spinner Rashid Khan. Blizzard considers Khan to be one of the best T20 bowlers in the world, and he knows from experience that facing his leg spin bowling can be a real challenge. According to Blizzard, Khan’s deliveries are very hard to pick, and he has a remarkable ability to deceive batsmen with his variations. Blizzard believes that having the chance to face Khan’s bowling in the nets would be a great learning opportunity for him, and it would help him to improve his game against high-quality spin bowling.

Kieron Pollard

Aiden Blizzard also included West Indian all-rounder Kieron Pollard in his dream net session, as he admires Pollard’s skills as a hard-hitting batsman and a useful medium-pace bowler. Blizzard knows that facing Pollard’s bowling would provide a great challenge, as Pollard is known for his ability to vary his pace and length, making it difficult for batsmen to get him away. Additionally, Blizzard would relish the opportunity to try and get Pollard out in the nets, which is no easy feat given his impressive record in T20 cricket.

Mike Hussey

Mike Hussey is another player that Aiden Blizzard included in his dream net session. Blizzard has known Hussey for many years and describes him as the ultimate gentleman and one of the best cricketers he has come across. Despite being a fierce competitor on the field, Hussey is also known for his ability to have a laugh and enjoy his time in the nets. According to Blizzard, having Hussey at the nets would not only be a great learning opportunity but also a lot of fun. Blizzard has always looked up to Hussey for his cricketing intelligence and work ethic, and he knows that having the chance to face his batting and pick his brain about the game would be an incredible experience.

Keep your eyes peeled for the new season of the Cricket Library Podcast that will be hitting the podcast feeds in May!

Paul Van Meekeren – Associate Cricket To World Stage – The Cricket Library

No Excuses: Michelle Goszko’s Winning Mindset and the Power of Rediscovering Her Love of Cricket

Posted on April 14, 2023 by thecricketlibrary

When it comes to sports, mindset is everything. And for Australian cricketer Michelle Goszko, adopting a winning mindset meant rediscovering her love of cricket and refusing to make excuses.

Goszko’s journey to becoming a successful cricketer was not without its challenges. At one point, she found herself burnt out and questioning her passion for the game. But with the support of her family, particularly her mother, Goszko decided to change her attitude and approach to cricket.

One of the key lessons that Goszko learned was to take responsibility for her own performance. Instead of blaming external factors, she focused on what she could control, such as her own mindset and preparation.

Another important aspect of Goszko’s mindset was her ability to embrace opportunities. She recognized that every match and every practice was a chance to improve and learn, and she seized those opportunities with enthusiasm and determination.

Perhaps most importantly, however, Goszko learned to rediscover her love of cricket. By taking the pressure off herself and simply enjoying the game, she found that she played better and was more successful on the field.

Goszko’s journey is a powerful reminder that mindset and attitude are crucial elements of success in sports (and in life). By adopting a winning mindset and rediscovering her love of cricket, she was able to overcome challenges, embrace opportunities, and achieve her goals.

So if you’re feeling burnt out or struggling to find motivation in your own pursuits, take a page from Michelle Goszko’s playbook. Focus on what you can control, embrace opportunities, and, most importantly, rediscover the joy and passion that brought you to your pursuits in the first place. With the right mindset, anything is possible.