Rising Cricket Talent Elsa Hunter Talks Sixers, WBBL Rivalries and Learning from Legends

In this uplifting episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, Sydney Sixers rising star Elsa Hunter joins us for a vibrant conversation during a crucial stretch of the WBBL season. Elsa shares her insights on the Sixers’ strong team vibe, the calm and powerful leadership of new captain Ash Gardner, and what it’s like learning from icons such as Ellyse PerryAlyssa Healy, and the squad’s international talent.

She reflects on her journey from playing local boys’ cricket in Malaysia to becoming a WNCL champion with the NSW Breakers, opening up about finding joy in the game, coping with pressure on the big stage, and navigating the friendly but fierce Sixers–Thunder rivalry.

Elsa also talks about the influence of different coaches, the importance of the mental side of cricket, and her dream of one day representing Australia.

A warm, inspiring, and engaging chat with one of the brightest young talents in the game.

Tune in and enjoy!

Paul Harris – The Journey of a Proteas Spinner The Cricket Library

In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, former South Africa national cricket team spinner Paul Harris joins us for a fascinating conversation on life at the highest level of world cricket. From bowling to legends like Sachin Tendulkar and challenging players such as Phil Hughes, to facing the raw pace of Mitchell Johnson as a batter, Paul reflects on some of the defining battles of his career. He shares what it was like to be part of the South African side that achieved the rare feat of winning a Test series in Australia against Australia, and offers insight into playing under the leadership of Graeme Smith during one of South Africa’s strongest eras. We also hear stories from life on tour—including rooming with Dale Steyn—and explore his transition into life after professional cricket. This episode is packed with elite-level insight, unforgettable memories, and honest reflections from one of South Africa’s most respected Test cricketers. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more stories from the world of cricket.
  1. Paul Harris – The Journey of a Proteas Spinner
  2. Paul Van Meekeren – Associate Cricket To World Stage
  3. Ken Piesse – A Life In Cricket Writing
  4. Nikhil Kulkarni | Every Day of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy | A Fan’s Journey
  5. Gavin Dovey – From the Australian Team to Leading NT Cricket

When Comedy Met Cricket: Chris Rock’s Unforgettable Encounter with Sir Vivian Richards

In the unpredictable world of chance encounters, cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards and comedy icon Chris Rock crossed paths in an unexpected meeting that left everyone in the room on the edge of their seats. Former cricketer Adam Hollioake recently shared this captivating story during an interview for the Cricket Library Podcast with Matt Ellis.

The rendezvous took place in a stylish Sydney bar, the name of which eludes Hollioake’s memory. In the cozy ambience of the establishment, Hollioake found himself in the company of Sir Vivian Richards, a man known for his respect, manners, integrity, and impeccable character. Little did they know that this evening would take an unexpected turn with the arrival of none other than the legendary comedian Chris Rock.

As Chris Rock strolled into the bar, he and Sir Vivian Richards exchanged nods of acknowledgment. It’s unclear whether Rock recognized the cricket icon, but the two seemed to share a moment of cultural acknowledgment. Hollioake, along with a friend who happened to be a skilled boxer, observed the unfolding events with keen interest.

What happened next was nothing short of surreal. Sir Vivian Richards, a man typically known for his calm demeanor, began addressing Chris Rock as if he were a wayward son. Rock, seemingly unaware of the cricket legend’s stature, had casually propped his foot up on the sofa. This prompted Richards to instruct Rock to get his feet off the furniture.

The tension in the air was palpable, with Chris Rock’s security detail on high alert. It appeared as though a confrontation was imminent. However, to everyone’s surprise, Chris Rock chose diplomacy over drama. He calmly removed his foot from the sofa, placing it back on the floor. The potential clash between the worlds of cricket and comedy was averted, and the room breathed a collective sigh of relief.

In the aftermath of this unexpected interaction, Hollioake and his companion found themselves in awe of the encounter. Sir Vivian Richards, in his characteristic fashion, had managed to assert his authority and convey his disapproval with a touch of paternal guidance. Chris Rock, on the other hand, demonstrated humility and defused the situation before it escalated.

It was a moment where two worlds collided, and instead of clash, there was a mutual understanding and respect.

Paul Harris – The Journey of a Proteas Spinner The Cricket Library

In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, former South Africa national cricket team spinner Paul Harris joins us for a fascinating conversation on life at the highest level of world cricket. From bowling to legends like Sachin Tendulkar and challenging players such as Phil Hughes, to facing the raw pace of Mitchell Johnson as a batter, Paul reflects on some of the defining battles of his career. He shares what it was like to be part of the South African side that achieved the rare feat of winning a Test series in Australia against Australia, and offers insight into playing under the leadership of Graeme Smith during one of South Africa’s strongest eras. We also hear stories from life on tour—including rooming with Dale Steyn—and explore his transition into life after professional cricket. This episode is packed with elite-level insight, unforgettable memories, and honest reflections from one of South Africa’s most respected Test cricketers. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more stories from the world of cricket.
  1. Paul Harris – The Journey of a Proteas Spinner
  2. Paul Van Meekeren – Associate Cricket To World Stage
  3. Ken Piesse – A Life In Cricket Writing
  4. Nikhil Kulkarni | Every Day of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy | A Fan’s Journey
  5. Gavin Dovey – From the Australian Team to Leading NT Cricket

Wingham to WBBL – The Maitlan Brown story on the Cricket Library Podcast

Maitlan Brown is just about to turn 24 and is one of the most exciting young talents in the game. She has made an impact with the ball, demonstrated athleticism in the field and contributed valuable runs with the willow.

In this episode of the Cricket Library Podcast we will hear more about where Maitlan’s love of the game started, her time in the NSW junior pathway, moving to Canberra, playing for the Renegades, touring India, her call up to the Australian squad, injury rehab as well as her return to NSW this summer. We also learn about some of her off field creative pursuits as an award-winning industrial design student.

Needless to say we ask Maitlan who she would most like to have a net with. Her  selections combine a mix of cricket, comedy and musical genius. In fact one of her selections provided entertainment at a Cricket Australia Awards night.

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 Adams special guest on the Cricket Library Podcast

Iconic South African spinner Paul Adams is our first guest in the new season of the Cricket Library Podcast.

Paul shares his story of his meteoric rise to the South African test team as a teenager, playing in the 1996 World Cup, dealing with being in and out of the team as well as reflecting on some of his career highlights.

We wrap up our chat by asking Paul which three people he would most like to the nets with another spinner getting an invite alongside a wrapper and a famous political leader.

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.

A net with John Cena

Back in November 2017 Maisy Gibson was in the right place at the right time when she had the chance to have a net with WWE Superstar John Cena.

We chatted with Maisy about this and heard much more about her cricket journey on our podcast last year. Maisy also reveals the three people that she would most like to have a net with.

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.