In this episode of The Paddock and The Pavilion, host Stephen Wallis rounds off his coverage of the inaugural Women’s T20 County Cup — the FA Cup of women’s cricket with a special interview featuring Ellie Threlkeld. Ellie captained Lancashire to glory on Bank Holiday Monday, 26 May, at Taunton, steering them to a thrilling 3 wicket win over The Blaze in the semi-final and a commanding 32-run victory against Surrey in the final. She shares her reaction to the triumph, her thoughts on the format and impact of the new competition and gives insight into Lancashire Thunder’s season so far.  A must-listen for fans of women’s cricket and anyone following the rise of this exciting new tournament. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Spotify or on our YouTube channel. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Royal Ascot just around the corner, The Paddock and The Pavilion welcomes back Australian trainer Henry Dwyer, who returns to the UK with his star sprinter Asfoora for the 2025 King Charles III Stakes.  Asfoora took Group 1 honours in the 5-furlong sprint last year, and Henry joins host Stephen Wallis to preview her chances of going back-to-back at one of the world’s most prestigious racing festivals. He shares his thoughts on the key dangers in this year’s field, his preparations for the big day, and his hopes of another Royal encounter with King Charles III. Tune in for insight, optimism, and a touch of Aussie flair ahead of Royal Ascot 2025. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Spotify or on our YouTube channel. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a long and successful career in the saddle, Grade 1 and Cheltenham Festival winning jockey Nick Scholfield has retired from race-riding. In this episode of The Paddock and The Pavilion, Nick joins host Stephen Wallis to discuss why he decided the time was right to retire after his ride on Monbeg Genius in the 2025 Grand National at Aintree. Nick also talks about the fire that still burns within him and his exciting new chapter — training racehorses. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Spotify or on our YouTube channel. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to our second part with Stan Hayhurst, the oldest living Cheltenham Gold Cup winning jockey. In Part two Stan remembers another Golden day at Cheltenham with the mare Kerstin as well as riding the giant Aintree fences of the 1950s and 60s including his connection with the massive pile up in the 1967 Grand National when the 100/1 outsider Foinavon shocked the sporting world.  Stan reflects on the harsh winter of 1962/63, major victories at Ayr and his life after riding. If you missed Part 1 (Ep252) click the link below. https://chrt.fm/track/4F8ACF/traffic.megaphone.fm/COMG8982964559.mp3?updated=1710355252 Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For our next podcast celebrating the centenary of the Cheltenham Gold Cup I was joined by Stan Hayhurst, the oldest living Gold Cup winning jockey. In the first of two parts, with the now 90-year-old Stan, the northern based jockey recounts his special day at Cheltenham in March 1958 on the mare Kerstin.  Stan recalls his early days in racing as an apprentice with Verly Bewicke, his first winner in 1950 at Hexham and what it was like to ride in those days, before he stopped for two years in the mid-1950s to do his National Service. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For our next Cheltenham Festival episode, I was joined by Chris Pitt, author and racing historian, who has just written ‘Let no memories fade’ a book celebrating this year’s centenary of the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Enjoy some of the unique, fascinating and major stories about the famous race from a Cheltenham Gold Cup Mastermind. The worst horse to run in the race, the war years, a controversial result, Arkle v Mill House, the only French winner, the Native River v Might Bite battle all feature. Chris also reveals how he came to write the book along with his own favourite memories of the race. Let No Memories Fade - Heroes of the Gold Cup 1924-2024 – Weatherbys Shop Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are off to the races today, Cheltenham races, ahead of the Cheltenham Festival with Brough Scott, one of Britain’s most respected journalists and broadcasters. Brough will be at the festival working for ITV racing but for the next hour enjoy his golden memories of the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Brough reveals his top three Gold Cup winners, best horse never to win the race, best training performance, best ride, and his favourite memory. Plus, you will hear a wealth of fascinatiing stories, about the horses, trainers, and jockeys he has seen since the early 1950s. From Winter to Townend, Vincent O’Brien to Willie Mullins and Mont Tremblant to Galopin Des Champs, Brough looks back at them all. For me it was a delight to hear Brough reminisce about the blue riband of steeplechasing and If you are a racing fan, I hope you are, this is one show not to be missed.   Interview date 28 February 2024. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the Paddock What was it like to....win the Cheltenham Gold Cup? In Episode 13 of a series where I pose the question ‘What was it like to…. I spoke to Graham McCourt, who was part of the biggest shock in history of the Cheltenham Gold Cup when he won the race riding the 100/1 outsider Norton's Coin in 1990.. Graham recalls how he got the ride on the horse, what it was like to work for trainer and Welsh dairy farmer Sirrell Griffiths and the story of the race where the people's favourite Desert Orchid was expected to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup for the second year in a row. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joining us on today’s show is Grace Bambury an inspiring young woman who is currently a professional cricket umpire and in the 4th year of her 5-year medical degree at Keele University. Find out how Grace manages studying for her medical degree with the challenges of umpiring international players in the hundred. It’s an insightful look into how she balances the two roles, transferring skills between medicine and cricket and giving 100% commitment to both.  Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2024 is a special year for the Cheltenham Gold Cup which is due to celebrate its centenary on Friday 15 March. Joining us for today’s episode is Andre Klein, the Assistant General Manager of Cheltenham racecourse, who has been on the road and much more with the original Gold Cup trophy. Andre’s tour began with a four-peak challenge in four days last summer, in aid of Racing Welfare, when he took the Gold Cup up to the summit of Scarfell Pike, Snowdon, Carrountoohill and Arkle, the name of probably the most famous ever winner of the race.  During this year as part of a 100 day countdown Andre has taken the Gold Cup to schools, care homes, hospitals, racecourses both in Britain, Ireland and now France, plus many more places to promote the blue riband of steeple chasing in its centenary year. You will hear how fondly the public has reacted to having their photo taken with the gold trophy, first won by Red Splash in 1924. Andre also talks about his role leading the Gold Cup 100 Community Fund in association with the Cheltenham rotary club which is raising money through various events and donations in support of local charitable causes. A passionate horse racing follower of many years Andre adds his favourite memory of the Gold Cup which went a long way to changing his life. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this podcast journalist Aaron Gransby, who has just written a new book, the Fakenham Favourite, joins us to tell the story of Cool Roxy and the Blackmores, Alan, and his wife Pat.  Alan reflects on Cool Roxy’s amazing career, a record eleven wins at Fakenham, and the difference training horses from his small yard in Little Berkhamsted  made to his family’s life before retiring in 2019 at the age of 90 following a family tragedy. We are also joined by Cool Roxy’s regular jockey Chris Honour, current jockey Tabitha Worsley, who rode for Alan, and trainer Georgie Howell, who recalls the incredible day when Roxy opened a racecourse bar! A story that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. Aaron will be at Fakenham races on Friday 16 February where you will be able to buy the book, The Fakenham Favourite. If you are unable to make it to Fakenham races on the 16 February, you can still purchase the book via www.aarongransby.com   Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s show we are back to the turf with Harry Herbert, the charismatic Chairman and Managing Director of Highclere Thoroughbred Racing. Harry talks about how he set up Highclere Racing and how he and his team manage Europe’s leading racehorse syndication company. We focus on the journey of Highclere’s first domestic classic winner Cachet, the 2022 1000 Guineas winner, who was sold for 2.2 million guineas at Tattersalls Sceptre sessions in December 2023.  Tattersalls bloodstock executive Freddie McKibbon also joins us to discuss the importance of the Sceptre sessions in their annual sales calendar. We even have a bit of cricket as Harry recalls the 23 June 1994 when his father’s team, the Earl of Carnarvon XIs hosted the South African team in a momentous match at the Highclere Castle ground.  Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cricket fans will know England have just begun a test series against India and before the action began in Hyderabad, I spoke to former England opening batsman Dennis Amiss about his days touring India during the 1970s. Dennis gives us an insightful account of his battles with legendary Indian spinners Bishan Bedi and Bhagwath Chandrasekhar in two contrasting Test match tours, 1972/73 and 1976/77. Dennis explains the many challenges you face on the sub-continent both on and off the field. Hear how, quite extraordinarily, one of those famous Indian spinners helped him during the series with some extra practice. It’s a podcast packed full of cricketing nostalgia, crowds of 100,000, the charismatic leadership of Tony Greig which all help you capture the magic of India in the 1970s. To end the show the former England opener adds his thoughts on the current series. This interview was recorded on 22 January 2024. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Paddock and The Pavilion, Stephen Wallis is joined by Vince van der Bijl, the former South African fast bowler who was named one of Wisden’s Cricketers of the Year in 1980, following a brilliant season with Middlesex that saw them crowned County Champions.   Although he never played Test cricket due to South Africa’s sporting isolation, Vince is celebrated as one of the game’s finest bowlers. He reflects on the 1980 season, bowling in English conditions, life at Lord’s, and the experience of playing under Mike Brearley in a Middlesex side full of international stars.   Off the field, Vince has made a lasting impact — having held senior roles with Cricket South Africa and the ICC earlier in this century, and now continuing to serve the game through MasiSports, the organisation he founded. www.masisports.co.za Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Spotify or on our YouTube channel. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With England’s five Test cricket tour of India due to start on 25 January today’s show features a man who will be at heart of the action, the Barmy Army trumpeter Simon Finch. Simon, known as Finchy, became the official Barmy Army trumpeter in early 2020 though because of the pandemic didn’t make his match day debut until the summer of 2021 when England played New Zealand at Edgbaston. You can’t help but feel energised listening to Simon, the professional musician who along with this Barmy Army work has headlined at Glastonbury with Florence and the Machine and worked with the likes of Beyonce, Blur, Kanye West to name just a few.  Find out how Simon got his dream job with the Barmy Army, his musical background, his cricketing plans for 2024 together with his thoughts on the Indian tour. Plus if you love the film Love Actually (2003) starring Hugh Grant, Colin Firth and Keira Knightley tune in to discover where Simon appeared in the film. For more information on the Barmy Army go to https://barmyarmy.com/ Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s show we are looking back to the 2023 flat racing year through the words of Sam Martin. Kitty Trice and John Berry, who have all been regular guests on the show. Sam, a young journalist for Rein it in Racing and Careers in Racing gives her thoughts on many of the major flat racing stories of 2023 while Racing Post bloodstock journalist Kitty Trice and Newmarket based trainer John Berry add their insightful opinions.  From the Classics, success for the King and Queen at Royal Ascot, Frankie’s farewell tour, Hayley Turners 1000th winner, Kitty’s bloodstock review, together with horses to look out for in 2024, we have it all covered.  Plus, you will find out each guest’s horse of the year for 2023, who will it be, along with their own favourite moment of the flat racing year.   Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s show we are going back to last summer, for the final part of our 2023 Silver Ashes series. You may recall during August I spoke to the England over 70s Captain John Evans about their first two one day internationals, both of which England won to retain the Ashes. In this final part John was joined by England all-rounder Nick Andrews alongside Australian captain and opening batsman Tom Wood to discuss the pulsating final match, a 182-run tie, at Maidenhaed and Bray CC, and to reflect on the three match series. Tom adds his thoughts on the whole trip and what it meant to the tourists; it’s so much more than just playing for your country. Meanwhile, John, England’s leading batter, with an aggregate of 258 runs, looks ahead to more exciting news for over 70s cricket. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to our final Festive five podcast.  Today we are back with cricket with Elite umpire Sue Redfern, who previously joined the show in Episode 95. In September 2023 Sue became the first female to umpire in a men’s county championship game when Glamorgan played Derbyshire in Cardiff. In a wide-ranging podcast, you will hear Sue’s reflections on that historic day for umpiring, the differences between umpiring a women’s and men’s game, the growing numbers of females taking up the role, and her thoughts on a fabulous Women’s Ashes where she got to umpire matches in all three formats of the series.  You will even find out about Sue’s current golf handicap! Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the fourth of our Festive five podcasts. On today’s show we have a one of our most inspiring guests, Natalie O’Rourke MBE the manager of Park Lane stables, who updates us on their move back to Teddington In southwest London. Natalie and Park lane stables were one of the good news stories of 2021 when the award-winning charity and Riding for the Disabled Association centre were saved from closure by the generosity of the general public. In this feel-good podcast “ we have a lot of good days at Park Lane” says Natalie you will hear what Natalie and her team have planned for their return in April 2024 together with news of a trip to the Ladies singles final at Wimbledon, pony racy and her son Woody’s love of Brentford football club. Park Lane Stables is coming home.  Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the third of our Festive five podcasts. Today’s show is about a racecourse, Fakenham racecourse, the only National Hunt course in Norfolk. Through the words of the course’s Chief Executive Officer and Clerk of the Course David Hunter, the racecourse announcer Steven Powell, staff, members, spectators, jockeys, Tabitha Worsley, Nick Scholfield and Jack Quinlan, trainer Lucy Wadham and the course doctor, yes it seems like a Christmas song, you will, I hope to find out the secret to Fakenham racecourse, and what makes it so popular. “It’s just a nice place to go and everybody whose there wants to be there” – Steven Powell – Racecourse announcer. “I still think it’s a special place, every time I go, I get a buzz” – Kevin Webb – Fakenham member for 35 years. “Everyone there loves their racing. It’s just a really fun friendly atmosphere. Everyone wants to help and wants to make sure you have a good day” – Tabitha Worsley - Jockey “It’s the epitome of professionally run course with a country feel. It’s just a great place to go to” – Chris Pitt – Author and racing historian. If you haven’t been to Fakenham racecourse you now have no excuse not to go.   Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the second of our Festive five podcasts - Today we are going racing with former National Hunt jockey Jacob Pritchard Webb. Jacob’s world changed dramatically in June 2020 when a race riding accident in France left him paralysed from the chest down. I first spoke to the young jockey in August 2021, in Episode 78 about the fall whilst in Episode 79 he described his six months stay in a French hospital and his hopes for the future. Today’s show covers Jacob’s new roles as a bloodstock agent, where he deals mainly in the National Hunt sphere, and as French racing expert working for Sky Sports Racing.  Plus, this inspiring young man chats about playing golf at the Mike Tindall golf day with the likes of Harry Redknapp, Damon Hill, and Lawrence Dallaglio and the £25,000 he raised for the Injured Jockeys Fund and the Matt Hampson foundation in July 2022 when he led a horse racing team on a 140-mile cross country cycle ride from Cheltenham to Newmarket. He also works on the family farm in Wales. Finally, Jacob reflects on the past three years since his life changing accident. “It’s better to keep looking forward” says Jacob, which sums up this understated, but extremely likeable young man, who has done so much over the past two years.    Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the first of our festive five podcasts. Opening the batting as he used to do for Western Australia is Ryan Campbell, now the head coach of Durham CCC, who last season won division 2 of the county championship by a mammoth 66 points. Ryan reflects on Durham’s outstanding season and looks ahead, with confidence, to their return to the top division in 2024. The former Dutch coach gives his forthright views on the English cricketing calendar, the Hundred, the Ashes and the recent men’s World Cup. If you love your cricket, enjoy 45 minutes with Ryan. This interview took place on 29 November 2023. Coming up tomorrow, former National Hunt jockey Jacob Pritchard Webb. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For the show’s last episode before Christmas, we conclude our nostalgic chat with Mike Thompson, who has just written ‘The Last Corinthian’ which covers the cricketing life of former England captain MJK Smith. After covering his early cricket career in Part 1, today’s episode covers MJK Smith’s Test career. Capture more cricketing history as Mike reveals some fascinating stories about MJK’s Test career, which spanned from 1958 to 1972, especially his successful days touring as the England captain in India (1964), South Africa (1964/65) and Australia (1965/66). Mike captained England in twenty five of his fifty Test Matches. Find out the respect held for Mike by both teammates and opponents in this relaxing look back at cricket during the 1950s, 60s and 70s. Signed copies of the book, ‘The Last Corinthian’, cost £25, are available from Mike Thompson by contacting him at  mike@speaklanguages.co.uk   Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike Smith, more commonly known in cricket as MJK Smith was a leading English cricketer of the 1950s,1960s and 1970s who captained England in 25 of his 50 Test matches. A remarkable sportsman Mike, now 90, also played a rugby union international for his country in 1956. He remains England’s last double international. In this podcast, split into two parts, cricket writer Mike Thompson talks about his new book, ‘The Last Corinthian’ which covers the cricketing life of MJK Smith. In Part 1 Mike Thompson focuses on MJK’s early career including stories of the many characters who played with him at Warwickshire CCC from Eric Hollies, the man who spoiled Don Bradman’s farewell Test match, Jim Stewart and Dennis Amiss. If you love cricketing nostalgia, this is the show for you.  Part 2 with Mike Thompson, coming soon, will follow MJK’s Test career, and particularly his time as England captain in the 1960s. Signed copies of the book, ‘The Last Corinthian’, cost £25, are available from Mike Thompson by contacting him at  mike@speaklanguages.co.uk Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this latest episode of The Paddock and The Pavilion, Stephen Wallis continues his “What Was It Like To…” series with a special look back at snooker’s Golden Age and is joined by former world number three, Neal Foulds. With the World Professional Snooker Championship fast approaching, Neal reflects on a time when the sport’s biggest names Alex Higgins, Steve Davis, Jimmy White, Stephen Hendry and more were household names across the UK. He shares his memories of the unforgettable 1985 Black Ball final, the player who won a match on one leg, and his own role in a novelty snooker record. Neal also gives us insight into life as a snooker commentator today and offers his prediction for this year’s Crucible champion. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Spotify or on our YouTube channel. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s show features the 2nd of our World Cup round ups, this time with a player who was at- the heart of the action, The Netherlands fast bowler, Paul Van Meekeren. Anyone who enjoyed the Men’s World Cup in India must have loved watching the team in orange, The Netherlands, with their passion, commitment and skill, the underdogs who punched above their weight to qualify for the global event, and then when beating two test playing nations. Paul tells us what it was like playing in the intense atmosphere of India, bowling to the likes of Virta Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Quinton de Kock, and Glenn Maxwell, who struck the fastest ever World Cup century, against The Netherlands, off only 40 balls. You will hear about The Netherlands victories against eventual semi-finalists South Africa, and Bangladesh plus the experience of playing against the other leading nations in the world of cricket. In addition, Paul reveals the impact their successes had on the Dutch public back home which he hopes will inspire the next generation. Plus, find out more about Paul’s love of the reverse sweep! Paul was previously on the show in Episode 176. https://chrt.fm/track/4F8ACF/traffic.megaphone.fm/COMG8412559699.mp3?updated=1675703519 Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The show’s cricketing expert former England international Roland Butcher is back to talk cricket and in particular review the recent men’s World Cup in India. Roland reflects on the competition, the reasons why Australia emerged victorious, the failings of England, gives his thoughts on the other teams along with choosing his best batter and best bowler of the tournament. Roland reveals why he thinks England performed so badly in the sub-continent. In a wide ranging podcast Roland chats about a new project that he is involved with, the Barbados Girls Cricket Club and looks ahead to England’s white ball tour to the Caribbean which begins on 3 December. Roland also gives his personal tribute to Bishan Bedi, the legendary Indian slow left arm bowler who sadly passed away on 23 October. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On today’s show we are concentrating on the IPL, the Indian Premier League, for the first time, with James Pamment, the specialist fielding coach of the Mumbai Indians, one of the most famous teams in the world. James has worked with the Mumbai franchise since 2017. His role has widened in the past year to include MI Cape Town in the SA T20 and MI New York in Major League Cricket. A podcast that takes you on James’s cricketing journey from playing junior county cricket for Yorkshire, the county of his birth, moving to New Zealand in the 1990s, to the heights of winning the IPL with Mumbai in 2019 & 2020. In a wide-ranging interview, featuring listeners questions, one of the world’s leading fielding coaches discusses the crucial role that fielding now plays in the modern game. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In last week’s episode we focused on the bloodstock world, this week it’s the turn of National Hunt racing with conditional jockey Charlotte Jones, who I interviewed at the end of September. Charlotte is a first-class northern jockey who has just had an incredible couple of race days, riding a treble at Hexham on November 10 and double at Kelso the following day, five rides, five winners, all for her Cumbria based trainer Jimmy Moffatt. If you are looking to hear from a dedicated and competitive up and coming rider, who thrives on hard work settle back for 35 minutes of inspiring listening in a wide-ranging chat which covers a winner at Aintree, women in racing and social media abuse. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The master of suspense and intrigue Felix Francis is back for this episode to chat about his new blockbuster ‘No Reserve’ which focuses on the world of horse racing bloodstock based in Newmarket.   Find out how Felix prepares, how he frames the outcome and much more…  No spoilers, but It’s a real page turner from a master storyteller. Felix previously appeared on The Paddock and The Pavilion in Episode 93 in November 2021.  https://chrt.fm/track/4F8ACF/traffic.megaphone.fm/COMG1763573615.mp3?updated=1657620596 Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a special Cricket World Cup podcast, I was joined by Shazia, the Afghanistan women's captain, who now lives in Australia, to get her reaction to her country's famous victory over reigning champions England on xx October. The Afghanistan men's team who only played their first World Cup qualifier in 2008 defeated England by 69 runs in one of the biggest shocks in the competition's 48 year history. Shazia added some interesting thoughts on the Afghanistan team's continued involvement in International cricket whilst the women's side are still denied the chance to play by their government. “They also deserve what we want for ourselves. I am really proud of them. They are a great team. Yes they should play” said Shazia.        To end the show the young Afghanistan leg spinner gave a report on her opening game of the new season for Eastlake CC in Canberra. Another insightful and inspiring interview with the Afghanistan women's captain who originally featured on The Paddock and The Pavilion in Episode 225 - The road from turmoil to hope. See the link below. https://chrt.fm/track/4F8ACF/traffic.megaphone.fm/COMG2123561671.mp3?updated=1695672627 And following Afghanistan's win against Pakistan eight days later I caught up with Shazia again for her thoughts on another famous victory by the Afghanistan cricket team, who are bringing joy to a nation. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Champions Day at Ascot on Saturday 21 October 2023 is set to be Frankie Dettori’s British farewell. In a special podcast to celebrate the legendary Italian’s farewell I was joined by a quartet of experts, jockey Rab Havlin, journalists Edward Sadler and Kitty Trice and Will Aitkenhead from Ascot Racecourse. Rab, a close friend of Frankie revealed what’s it like to work with the world’s most famous jockey, Edward of Racing.com in Australia and Kitty, a Racing Post bloodstock journalist reviewed his 2023 farewell tour while Will, the senior corporate and industry affairs manager at Ascot talked about Frankie’s love of Ascot and how much the racecourse is looking ahead to Champions Day. Each interview was carried out before Frankie's decision on 12 October when he confirmed he planned to continue riding in America at the end of the year. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Part 2 of All over the World Jenny Thompson explained how women’s cricket is now thriving throughout the world, despite the barriers they have faced, and still do.   I also posed Jenny the question, Where will the women’s game be in ten years’ time? I found out how the world’s leading cricketing traveller has been dealing with the mental and physical challenges of playing cricket all over the world, including the occasional tour disaster, her unusual nickname. all in a packed 30 minute pod. Since I last spoke to Jenny she has been to Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica, Columbia, Peru and Chile. Jenny is due to arrive in Brazil on 18 October. I hope to catch up with Jenny again in 2024 for All over the World Part 3. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jenny Thompson currently on her world cricket tour returns to The Paddock and The Pavilion to update us on her adventure playing cricket all over the world which began on 1 April. At the time of writing Jenny has now visited 44 countries on her quest to discover where women's cricket is played across the globe.  From Asia, to Europe, and now South America Jenny recalls the exciting, and inspiring stories, some bizarre, on her journey. In this podcast, split into two parts, the former Cheshire county player, who represented England at under 17 level answers Ten for Jen about her tour. Find out the hottest place she has played, her funniest moment and the European country where you need to go to fix your fast bowling Jenny retells eight incredible stories from her trip ranging from night cricket in Austria, playing for the MCC, training with the French national team, to the fear of possibly meeting a bear in Transylvania!   You won't meet anyone more enthusiastic about cricket than Jenny. One not to miss. Part 2 coming soon. Jenny was previously on The Paddock and The Pavilion in - What was it like to play against a World XI - https://chrt.fm/track/4F8ACF/traffic.megaphone.fm/COMG1221760106.mp3?updated=1682437266 Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the Pavilion What was it like to…. play in the first Men's cricket World Cup? In Episode 12 of a series where I pose the question ‘What was it like to…. I spoke to Rick McCosker, who opened the batting for Australia in the 1975 World Cup, known as the Prudential Cup.   Rick looked back at the Aussies build up to the tournament which included warm up games in Canada and a trip to Buckingham Palace where the team met the late Queen Elizabeth II and talked cricket with Prince Philip. Rick, who made his one day international debut in their first group match against Pakistan reviewed their three group matches, and a remarkable semi final win against the hosts England. In the final Australia played the mighty West Indians on Saturday 21 June in one of the greatest one day internationals of all time. The former Aussie opening batter gives a tribute to Clive Lloyd, who struck an imperious century, off only 82 balls at Lord's to lead his team to a dramatic 17 run victory. To end the podcast Rick reflected on the first men's world cup played over 60 overs a side in whites, with a red ball and no field restrictions, forty eight years after the best teams in the world came together in England. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Paddock and The Pavilion, host Stephen Wallis is joined by rising star Sophia Smale, the talented slow left-armer who’s made the move from the west to the east to join Essex.   Sophia shares her reasons for the switch, reflects on her time with Western Storm, and gives insight into her experiences in The Hundred with the Oval Invincibles. A fascinating look into the journey of a young cricketer determined to reach the top.   Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Spotify or on our YouTube channel. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We love inspiring stories on The Paddock and The Pavilion. Episode 225 - the road from turmoil to hope, tells the story of a brave young woman who left her Afghanistan home in the most difficult of circumstances. Back in mid-July I spoke to Shazia the 21-year-old Afghanistan women’s cricket captain, who fled the turmoil in her country, in the autumn of 2021, on route to safety in Australia to resume her cricketing career. In this compelling hour-long podcast Shazia talks about her love of cricket, the challenges as a woman she faced playing in an environment where many did not approve and how she escaped from this war-torn area through the help of the Australian Cricket Board. The young all rounder has now settled in Canberra where she plays cricket for Eastlake Cricket Club. To find out more about how this brave young woman has settled in Australia I was joined on the show by Eastlake Cricket Club’s wicket keeper Carli Eaton.   Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I have the perfect guest for you. Kim Bailey is a leading National Hunt trainer who loves the game of cricket. He even got out of the river this summer to watch the Ashes on TV. Check out his day out fishing with Nicky Henderson during the podcast. In this episode you will hear about his enduring passion for bat and ball and the turf, his thoughts on the Ashes, which he covered regularly in his daily Bailey’s blog, how jump racing has changed since he started training in 1978 plus his memories of victories in the big three the Champion Hurdle, Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National. It’s a treat for followers of both codes as the experienced trainer prepares for the National Hunt season to move into top gear. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the eve of National Racehorse Week, I was joined by the man who came up with the idea, trainer Richard Phillips. Richard discusses the plans for this key week for the racing industry while trainers Kim Bailey and Ilka Gansera Leveque, and stud owner Eileen Harte of Harte bloodstock, who are all opening their doors to the public, make guest appearances on the show. “For one week of the year we need to celebrate the racehorse and to show Britan and the World how good we are looking after these animals,” said Richard. Over 120 trainers are due to open to the public during the week with 13,000 people already having booked their free place.   There is so much to find out about a racehorse during National Racehorse Week – Watch them training, schooling, see the care and attention they are given at the stable and much more… To book your place at one of the many events around the country between 9-17 September check out https://nationalracehorseweek.uk/ for further details. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you wonder what's like to open the batting in The Hundred catch our latest podcast with South African Lizelle Lee, who has just finished her stint playing for the Trent Rockets. Lizelle chats about the 2023 tournament where the Rockets finished 4th just outside the finals, The Hundred concept and her future as franchise cricketer. Power plays, batting against the swinging ball and the variety of bowlers you can face as an opening batter are all covered by one of the leading international franchise batters in world cricket. Lizelle played nearly 200 internationals for South Africa before she retired from international cricket in 2022. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The final podcast of our four-part Birdsville races sees the return of racegoer Andrew Redston who previously featured in Ep 149 - On the road to Birdsville races. Andrew is now back at Birdsville for this year's race meeting. The podcast is split into two halves. In the first half Andrew looked back on his 2022 Birdsville races experience, the rain, and how the journey to the outback, 10,000 km in Andrew's case, helped him on a personal level after a tough few years. “The rain added another element to Birdsville. It was really cool” said Andrew. “I wanted the Birdsville experience, as they say, and I think I covered a lot of ground” reflected Andrew. You will also hear about his boxing exploits in the Fred Brophy tent. Not what you expect when you go to the races! In the second half Andrew reveals why he decided to take the path back to Birdsville, though not for the Boxing, as part of the Roadies. Andrew has kindly added the Paddock and The Pavilion logo to the back of his truck! Andrew has now arrived in Birdsville. He went racing on the first day where he backed a winner in Race 2! Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Our third Birdsville Races podcast of 2023 focuses on jockey John Keating and his pursuit of Birdsville Cup glory. In the first half, recorded in October 2022, the 51-year-old Bendigo, based jockey chats about his racing experiences at last years' two-day meeting where he finished 2nd again in the Birdsville Cup. The historic race remains on the bucket list for the jockey who began his career in 1988 and has ridden nearly 800 winners. On a lighter the jockey adds the story of his son Henry’s four-wheel drive vehicle which blew a gearbox close to John’s arrival in Birdsville. In the second half John I spoke to John ahead of his departure to Betoota for the opening leg of this year's Simpson Desert Racing carnival.  John compares the three legs of the series, Betoota, Birdsville and Bedourie. In 2022 John came 2nd in all three of the major cup races. John gives his thought about this year’s meeting at Birdsville, especially the cup which he dreams of adding to his mantelpiece at home in Bendigo. Transport wise this year John is driving his younger son Daniel’s vehicle. The good news is that John has made it to Birdsville without any issues.   Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As Birdsville Races Vice President Gary Brook said in Episode 218 “it’s probably the biggest car rally in the world”. One of those on his way to Birdsville 2023 is 93-year-old Bob Potts, known as Pottsy, who is travelling 900 miles to see the Birdsville Cup with his son Reggie and daughter Lyn. Last year Pottsy reached Betoota races but became unwell on race day and had to be airlifted out by the Royal Flying Doctors. After a few days in hospital Pottsy was back home feeling much better, plus he was soon making plans to go to Birdsville races in 2023. In this podcast, part 2 of our Birdsville Races 2023 series Reggie and Pottsy talk about their plans for the epic journey to the Queensland outback, Pottsy in his turbo charged mobility scooter. The Potts team, who are part of the Birdsville Roadies have now made it to Birdsville ahead of Friday’s races, where Pottsy hopes to back the winner. In many people eyes he is already a winner. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the first of four podcasts celebrating Birdsville Races 2023 I was joined by Birdsville Races Vice President Gary Brook, who previously featured in Ep 148 – The Birdsville Cup – The Melbourne Cup of the outback. The podcast in two halves begins with an interview in late October 2022 after last year’s meeting, which was severely affected by torrential rain. Gary explains how he and his team managed the monumental task of keeping the two-day meeting on. Although the original opening day was postponed and moved forward to the next day all the races were complete before the sun set on Sunday at the iconic venue. 2nd Half A few grey hairs later Gary recently joined me ahead of Birdsville 2023 to update us on this year’s two-day meeting which is due to start on Friday 1 September with the Birdsville Cup set for Saturday 2 September. With many road closures in 2022 due to the weather Gary is hoping for a larger crowd this year and bigger field sizes.  Plus, Gary explained to me what the Birdsville Races Roadies means. In part 2 coming up in our next podcast you will be hearing from some of those Roadies, 93-year-old Bob Potts, known as Pottsy, and his son and daughter Reggie and Lyn, who are currently on their 900-mile journey to the races. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Test player and regular guest on The Paddock and The Pavilion Roland Butcher joins the show to review the best Men’s Ashes series since 2005. A series he successfully predicted in Episode 201, can the Aussies match the Bazball Test would be 2-2. A series in two halves Roland gives his forthright opinions on the red ball action. He considers the mistakes and in his view the arrogance that Egland displayed in the matches at Edgbaston and Lord’s before the recall of Mark Wood, a defining factor in the five-match series, saw the home side fight back strongly at Headingley, Old Trafford and the Oval. A current West Indian selector Roland discusses the Caribbean side’s multi format series against India along with the forthcoming ICC World Cup which begins on 5 October. Find out who he thinks will win the 50 over World Cup? Remember he is in form.   Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the 2nd part of our Silver Ashes series, I spoke to a delighted England over 70s Captain John Evans following the team’s victory by 91 runs in the 2nd ODI on Sunday at Wellington cricket club. The victory meant that England retained the Ashes. John, who was in the runs again, talked through the action in Shropshire which did have it ups and downs before England secured a comfortable win. Joining us on the podcast is the Australian wicket keeper Murray Harrison who added a match perspective from the visiting camp. A former Australian over 60s international Murray also gave us an insight into touring England and Wales. England 236/8 (50) Australia 149 all out (42.3). The 3rd part of the series will follow next week after the final ODI on Sunday 20 August at Maidenhead and Bray Cricket Club. Interviews for this episode were recorded on 17 August. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who are the greatest Grand National winners of all time? In this episode, author and former diplomat Oli Hein—whose 2024 book Immortals explores racing’s most legendary National Hunt horses—reveals the Grand National winners he believes stand above the rest. Plus, we look at three unlucky losers—horses that, for various reasons, never managed to claim the most famous prize in National Hunt racing. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Spotify or on our YouTube channel. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Our latest Ashes podcast will take you all around the world with this summers’ Women’s Ashes. From Argentina, Brazil, England, Scotland, Japan, and the USA you will hear from four International cricketers, a Fairbreak manager and a young sporting vlogger. Mariana Martinez (Argentina), Roberta Moretti Avery (Brazil), Rosa Simkin (England), Shizuka Miyaji (Japan), Sue Strachan (Scotland) & Sins Sriharsha (USA) give their thoughts on the multi format series, the players who inspired them, their player of the series and much more…. Via laptops, mobile phones, the living room on television or live at the ground our guests followed the best series in the history of women’s’ cricket. Catch their passion and love of the game. Enjoy Ashes all around the world. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We have had the Men’s and Women’s Ashes and the Men’s over 60s Ashes but now it’s the time for the Men’s over 70s Ashes, known as the Silver Ashes.  England holders of the Ashes after winning down under during the winter began a three match ODI series at Castle Park, Colchester last Sunday. Joining me at short notice for the first of three podcasts covering the three internationals is the England captain and Sunday’s match winner John Evans. You will also hear from Nick Andrews (Cambs & Hunts CCC) our guest in Ep 188 when we covered the tour down under, who made a useful contribution with the bat. John set the scene for the series and discussed the match action which saw England win by 54 runs. England 256/7 (50) Australia 202/5 (50). The next match is due on Sunday 13 August at Wellington Cricket Club in Shropshire. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

England captain Heather Knight described the Women’s Ashes as the best women’s series in the history of women’s cricket. And in the first of our three podcasts on the Ashes 2023 I was joined by former England Test centurion Kathryn Leng and German international all-rounder Tina Gough to review all the action during this exciting multi format women’s’ Ashes. Kathryn and Tina, well known to listeners of ‘The Paddock and The Pavilion’ look back at the action which began with a 5-day Test match at Trent Bridge, where England opening batsman Tammy Beaumont broke an 89-year record with a brilliant 208 and ended with the World’s best woman batter Nat Sciver Brunt scoring 129 to secure England victory at Taunton. Final points score of 8-8 led to the Aussies retaining the Ashes. Was that fair? Did our two pundits agree with the points system? Should there be more Test matches? What were the reasons for the England fightback after being 6-0 down? Who was their player of the series? Find out their views on these topics and much more along with questions from some of our listeners. Please subscribe to us on Apple podcasts, Amazon music, Google or Spotify. Connect with us on X, Facebook & Instagram @ThePaddandPav www.stephenwallismedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices