The Top Order Cricket Podcast
A Pom, an Aussie and two Kiwis walk into a bar ... it’s not a joke, it’s The Top Order, a cricketing podcast where good friends mix their own banter and opinion with extended interviews with some of cricket's most interesting characters from the past and present day.
Episodes
This Week in Cricket #214: Black Caps v India white-ball preview, plus England contracts and Aus v SA changes
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu react to team changes for the second test between South Africa and Australia, look ahead to the Black Caps upcoming series against India, and discuss some notable points from England's central contract list.
We start the show with news from Gqeberha, where it was drizzling at the time of recording but the South African and Australian playing XIs
South Africa v Australia First Test Review: The Renshaw game, Australia's discipline & what next?
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu review the first test between South Africa and Australia.
We start the show with positivity from an Australian point of view after their commanding victory in the first Test. From a tricky position, the visitors turned the game on its head and, led by a near double hundred from Matt Renshaw, they took control of the match and never let go of that advanta
South Africa v Australia Day 3 first session live watch along - plus a World XI to face the aliens!
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Binksy and Stu test drive the YouTube livestream as we watch the first session of Day 3 during the first Test between South Africa and Australia. And over the course of the session, we select a World Test XI for a three-Test series against the alien collective at the MCG, Ahmedabad and Lords.
We start the show with a recap of the first two days of the test,
South Africa v Australia Test Series Preview, plus NZ20 & the India v WI runfest
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu quickly hit on a couple of news items out of New Zealand and India before diving into an extended preview of the upcoming Test series between Australia and South Africa, which begins on 9 October.
We start the show with news of disharmony among some New Zealand cricket legends, including Sir Richard Hadlee, about the way the NZC board has approached t
This Week in Cricket #214: Batting questions for Aus, England summer review & Black Caps T20 squad
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy, Raj and Stu look back at the week that was to discuss batting questions for Australia's white-ball side, England's summer performance, the arrival of Stephen Fleming, the retirement of Mark Wood, and the Black Caps' T20 squad to take on India in a few weeks' time.
We start the show with a conversation about Australia's recent white-ball performances
England v Pakistan 3rd Test Review: What have we learned from England's clean sweep?
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Jamie and Stu look back at the third test between England v Pakistan with an eye to what we've learned from the series as a whole and the key questions still remaining for England before they head to South Africa.
We start the show with our initial reaction to England's dominant series win, which has been somewhat overshadowed by Pakistan's flat performance
England v Pakistan 2nd Test Review: Robinson stars again as England dominate
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu look back at the first two tests between England v Pakistan, which have seen the English bowlers dominate, piling even more pressure on the visitors.
We start the show with the positives for England, who have started the Joe Root reboot with two dominant performances to wrap up the series with a test to spare. While they wait for Stephen Flemi
This Week in Cricket #213: Australia bounces back, Sri Lanka fights hard & is time up for Marnus?
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Raj and Stu look back at the two-day test between Australia and Bangladesh, plus talk India v Sri Lanka, England v Pakistan and the Top End T20 Series.
We start the show with reactions from Australia bouncing back to level the series against Bangladesh. There's plenty of praise for Mitchell Starc and Shoriful Islam, who starred with the ball, but questions g
This Week in Cricket #212: Bangladesh thump Australia - How did that happen? Plus England v Pakistan
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy, Raj and Stu look back at Bangladesh's comprehensive and history-making win against Australia, then look ahead to England's upcoming series against Pakistan.
We start the show full of praise for Bangladesh after their impressive victory over Australia in Darwin. Tanzid starred with 100, Mehidi and Hasan Mahmud were excellent with the ball, and that pl
This Week in Cricket #211: Australia v Bangladesh, India v Sri Lanka & England v Pakistan
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu look ahead to three upcoming series in the World Test Championship cycle that are all due to begin over the next 10 days: Australia v Bangladesh, Sri Lanka v India & England v Pakistan..
We start the show with the closest series on the horizon: Australia taking on Bangladesh in Darwin and Mackay. On paper it looks like plain sailing for Australia, pa
This Week in Cricket #210: Stephen Fleming & Joe Root combine for England, plus a Black Caps news round-up
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Raj and Stu discuss Stephen Fleming's appointment as England's Test coach, plus Joe Root's return to captaincy, a bit of Black Caps news and the West Indies taking a 1-0 lead against Pakistan.
We start the show with the news that Stephen Fleming will succeed Brendon McCullum as England's Test coach - although not until the end of their upcoming series agains
This Week in Cricket #209: When is the right time to rebuild? The Ashes in India?
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu make the most of a quiet week in the southern hemisphere to debate the best approach to test cricket succession planning, with Australia's crop of outstanding fast bowlers front of mind. There's also talk of an Ashes test in India, plus plenty of other notes on the Aussie squad to face Bangladesh.
We start the show with the news that Australia has na
This Week in Cricket #208: NZ's ODI depth chart, Rohit under threat & remembering Sir Garfield Sobers
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Raj and Stu talk mostly ODI cricket for the first time in ages, as we look back at the first two matches in England's series against India and the first three of New Zealand's tour to the West Indies. We also pay tribute to the late Sir Garfield Sobers - a true legend of the game.
We start the show with England v India, and it's Rohit Sharma who has
This Week in Cricket #207: Baz out, Flem gone and the Black Caps in the West Indies
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Jamie and Stu turn a 'short' episode into a long one by reacting to the news that Brendon McCullum has been sacked as England Men's test coach, and then looking back at the Stokes/McCullum tenure. We also discuss England's T20 series victory against India and New Zealand's ongoing ODI series against the West Indies.
We start the show with an extended c
This Week in Cricket #206: Black Caps beat England, but what now?
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Jamie, Baldy and Stu look back at the Black Caps v England series in an attempt to figure out where to next for both sides. There's also a quick word on the Women's T20 World Cup final, and a nod to some upcoming white-ball series also featuring India and the West Indies.
We start the show with plenty of positivity from the New Zealand side of the ledger a
England v New Zealand 3rd Test Review: All-round Black Caps make history as Ben Stokes bows out
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Jamie and Stu look back at the third and final test between England and the Black Caps, this time at Trent Bridge. We talk about New Zealand's impressive victory and their collective effort throughout the series, plus Ben Stokes’ decision to retire from international cricket.
We start the show with plenty of positivity from the New Zealand side of the ledge
England v New Zealand 2nd Test Review: Matt Henry's masterclass, shambolic England & a series all square
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Binksy, Jamie and Stu look back at the second of three tests between England and the Black Caps, this time at The Oval. We talk about New Zealand's dominant win and the star performers, plus the tumultuous off-field nature of England Cricket at the moment, all with one eye on the series decider at Trent Bridge in just a few days' time.
We start the show wit
This Week in Cricket #205: Kane Williamson retires & England's curfew kerfuffle
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu look back at an eventful week in the world of cricket - although a lot of the news came off the field, with Kane Williamson calling stumps on his career and England Cricket's curfew kerfuffle involving Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson. We also discuss the first few games of the Women's T20 World Cup and the Australian's Men's team's recent performances.
We
Black Caps v England First Test Review: Bowlers shine, but the Lord's pitch remains in the spotlight
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy, Jamie and Stu look back at the First Test between England and the visiting Black Caps at Lord's..
We start the show by throwing it to the victors as England take a 1-0 lead in this Test series. Jamie is cautious with his optimism, while Binksy takes us through the Lord's experience and we discuss how important victory in any form was to kickstart this
Black Caps v England Test Preview: Selection questions, NZ's last dance and England under pressure
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Raj and Stu look ahead to the upcoming Test series between England and the visiting Black Caps..
We start the show by taking a wider view of where both squads are at leading into this encounter. For New Zealand, it feels like the start of a big year of Test cricket - one that could define how we look back at this current group of players. For England it's al
IPL 2026 Final Recap: Kohli & bowlers shine as RCB beats GT to go back to back
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Raj and Stu look back at the 2026 IPL final between the Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, which saw RCB victorious to claim back to back titles.
We start the show by recapping our tournament predictions, which looked a lot worse thanks to Mumbai's failings and Punjab's late collapse, before we discuss a final that may well have been decided wit
This Week in Cricket #204: Contenders & Exit Interviews at IPL 2026
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Raj and Stu take stock of all 10 teams at IPL 2026 as we move to the knockout phase of the competition.
We start the show by focusing on the three teams already qualified for the playoffs at the time of recording - Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru & Sunrisers Hyderabad. There are contrasts among the styles - GT's bowling has been a huge strength,
This Week in Cricket #203: Finn Allen robbed, Virat Kohli appreciation & Ollie Robinson's return
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu look back at the week that was in IPL 2026, discuss England's Test squad to take on the Black Caps and cover off some news from New Zealand, Australia and the World Test Championship.
We start the show by trying to make sense of an increasingly murky IPL playoff picture after KKR's big win over the Gujarat Titans in the early hours of Sunday mo
This Week in Cricket #202: Top Order hits 500, Black Caps Test squad announced & GT on the charge
In this episode of the show, Binksy and Stu celebrate the Top Order's 500th episode before discussing the week that was in IPL 2026 and evaluate the Black Caps' Test squad for the upcoming tour to Ireland and England, plus a bit of England Cricket chat as well.
We start the show by raising the bat to 500 episode for The Top Order Podcast. It's been a fun journey filled with plenty of highlights
This Week in Cricket #201: IPL Update, Black Caps squad draft & a new NZC CEO
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Raj and Stu discuss the week that was in IPL 2026, Geoff Allott's appointment as New Zealand Cricket CEO and draft their Black Caps Test squad for the upcoming tour to Ireland and England.
We start the show by discussing another disappointing week for the Mumbai Indians, before we turn our attention to the three sides just on the outside of the playoff pictur
This Week in Cricket #200: Does a good bowling attack matter in T20s? And are Will Young & Zak Crawley on the decline?
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu discuss a range of topics from IPL 2026 at the halfway stage. Who has impressed? What predictions did we get wrong? And what did we get right? We also touch on the current overseas tours involving the Black Caps and NZ A, plus check in on the England Test contenders now that the County Championship season is underway.
We start the show by discu
This Week in Cricket #199: Black Caps selection questions for 2026 and IPL Week 3 in review
In this episode of the show, Stu and Raj discuss the current overseas tours involving the Black Caps and NZ A, plus some key emerging questions as the third week of IPL 2026 comes to a close.
We start the show by discussing the many Black Caps on tour in various parts of Asia in the month of April - primarily the NZ side in Bangladesh and the NZ A team in Sri Lanka. We highlight names to watch
IPL Week 2 Reactions: Sooryavanshi & Jaiswal, RCB's batting depth & should Mumbai sound the alarm?
In this episode of the show, Stu and Raj discuss the second week of IPL 2026, focusing on RCB v MI, GT v LSG, RR sitting at the top of the ladder and a few other things that have caught their eye so far.
We start the show by discussing RCB's most recent victory over the Mumbai Indians. Did Stu make a huge mistake leaving RCB out of his pre-tournament top 4? It's certainly looking that way after
IPL 2026 Week 1 Reactions: Sunrisers beat KKR, Cooper Connolly stars & Delhi's bowling craft
In this episode of the show, Stu and Raj discuss the first week of IPL 2026, focusing on the things that reinforced their pre-tournament views and the things that have surprised them so far.
We start the show with another shout out to Amelia Kerr, after her stunning 179* guided the White Ferns to a record-breaking chase against South Africa, before moving on to the IPL coverage and the most rec
This Week in Cricket #198: Jacob Duffy stars for RCB, NZ20 approved & Brendon McCullum to stay
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu discuss an interesting week in the world of cricket, which saw the IPL begin with RCB's win over SRH, New Zealand Cricket approve (in-principle) the formation of a new T20 franchise league & more details emerged about England's post-Ashes review.
We start the show with game 1 of IPL 2026 - the Sunrisers Hyderabad taking on the defending champio
IPL Preview Show 2026 - Part 2: SRH, CSK, GT, RCB & MI, plus predictions!
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy, Raj and Stu are back in the same room again (almost all of us) to kick off the IPL 2026 coverage with a bumper preview show in two parts. This is part two, in which we previewing the fortunes of Sunrisers Hyderabad, the Chennai Super Kings, Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bengaluru & Mumbai Indians.
We're straight into it this time around to discuss
IPL Preview Show 2026 - Part 1: RR, LSG, KKR, DC & PBKS
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy, Raj and Stu are back in the same room again (almost all of us) to kick off the IPL 2026 coverage with a bumper preview show in two parts. In this episode, we start by previewing the fortunes of the Rajasthan Royals, Lucknow Super Giants, Kolkata Knight Riders, Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings.
We start with a Baldy explainer, before moving straight int
ICC Men's T20 World Cup: Samson & Bumrah do it again as India blitz NZ to go back-to-back
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu look back at the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, which was played at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad between the Black Caps of New Zealand and the 2024 champions India.
We start with our instant reactions to India's dominant performance that made them the first team to win back-to-back titles at the Men's T20 World Cup. It's a tough one a
ICC Men's T20 World Cup: Samson and Bumrah batter England in march to the final
n this episode of the show we’ll review the aftermath of a brutal display of batting from both England and India which saw 499 runs scored in a T20 semi final where India prevailed by 7 runs thanks to 89 from Sanju Samson and a world class bowling performance from Jasprit Bumrah who was the only bowler to concede less than 9 runs an over in the contest.
We also look forward to the final on Sunday
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Semifinal: Finn Allen's record-breaking 100 sends Black Caps to the final
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu look back at the first semifinal of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, which was played at Eden Gardens between the Black Caps of New Zealand and the Proteas from South Africa.
We start with our instant reactions to a remarkable reversal of form as New Zealand crushed South Africa thanks to an excellent bowling performance and a dominant display by the
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 23: We have our semi-finalists
We have our semi-finalists as the last episodes of the drama series that is the Super8 stage concluded with a double feature overnight as South Africa put away Zimbabwe and India got home in their game against the West Indies.
The India x West Indies was a virtual quarter-final decided by one man as Sanju Samson played the innings of a lifetime to anchor India in chasing down 199 in the final o
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 22: Fine lines as Pakistan and Sri Lanka deliver a nail-biter
Wow. What a nail-biting encounter between Sri Lanka and Pakistan overnight. From record-breaking partnerships, to stunning collapses for both teams, to Shaheen Shah Afridi and Dasun Shanaka playing out a memorable last over, this match had everything. There was so much to talk about - almost too much for Raj and Baldy to handle in the immediate aftermath of a match that had so much to play for for
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 21: Heartbreak for the Black Caps as Jacks & Ahmed win it for England
In this episode of the show, Binksy and Stu look back at Day 21 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which was a crucial day for Group 2 in the Super 8s, as the Black Caps of New Zealand took on England in Colombo.
We start the show with pure emotion, as the boys react to the late drama that saw England snatch victory with three balls to spare. The Black Caps did a lot right throughout the course of t
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 20: Markram's men stay undefeated & India's dominant win
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu look back at Day 20 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which was a huge day for Group 1 in the Super 8s, featuring South Africa against the West Indies and India taking on Zimbabwe.
We start the show with a bang, then it's straight into the action to discuss a South African victory against the West Indies that leaves them as the only unbeaten side left in t
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 19: Santner and McConchie lift NZ to big win against Sri Lanka
In this episode of the show, Jamie and Stu look back at Day 19 of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which saw the Black Caps of New Zealand take on the hosts of Sri Lanka. They also look ahead to a day with massive implications in Group 1 of the Super 8s, on which South Africa meets the West Indies and India & Zimbabwe look to bounce back after difficult losses.
We start the show with a quick summar
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 18 Review: England are through to the semi-finals
Someone is listening to the Top Order Podcast. Binksy has been calling for more opportunity for Harry Brook - he was elevated to number three in this Super 8 clash against Pakistan and delivered a fine century as England chased down 164.
It wasn't without a few nervous moments as late wickets triggered a little bit of a wobble. There are a few nitpicks and work-ons for England going forward, but
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 17 Review: Hetmyer & the spin twins star as West Indies beat Zimbabwe
In this episode of the show, Binsky and Stu look back at Day 17 of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which featured the Super 8s match between the West Indies and Zimbabwe.
After a watchful start and a crucial missed opportunity, the West Indies produced a barrage of sixes on their way to a massive score of 254 against Zimbabwe, which ultimately proved to be well out of reach. We talk about the st
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 16 - The Super 8s are alive...
The first two days of the Super 8s are in the books - and aside from the frustrating rain-affected NR between Pakistan and New Zealand there has been some epic results.
After an historic T20 WC winning streak India will be primed for a comeback after falling to South Africa to throw Group 1 wide open. The middle order for South Africa were outstanding, and while both teams lost wickets in the P
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 14 - We're off to the Super 8s...
Group play is all over bar the shouting at the 2026 edition of the T20 World Cup for men, and the Top Order assembled an all-star cast to recap the group stage and preview the Super 8s.
Jamie and Binksy from the UK were joined by Raj and Baldy from NZ to recap the group stage and preview the key matchups and games to watch in both Super 8 groups. From India's expectations, to the West Indies ex
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 13 Review: Zimbabwe top the group and Australia call Qantas to change their flights
Today, we wrapped up the penultimate day in the group stages with some thrilling matches. Afghanistan dominated Canada, winning by 82 runs, while the West Indies continued their unbeaten streak, showcasing their impressive talent.
Afghanistan’s game plan was spot on, with a stellar performance from Ibrahim, who scored 95 not out. Their spin attack was lethal, with Rashid Khan and Mohammed Nabi wr
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 12 Review: Dube & Varun shine again, Farhan's 100 puts Pakistan through & South Africa's calm stroll
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu look back at Day 12 of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which featured three games: India v Netherlands, Pakistan v Namibia and South Africa v UAE.
We start the show by discussing the tournament favourites, India, and their final pool match against the Netherlands. Abhishek Sharma fell early again, but starts from the rest of the top order were iced by a
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 11 Review: Phillips powers Black Caps into Super 8s, Rain in Pallekele & Nepal sign off in style
In this episode of the show, Raj and Stu look back at Day 11 of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which featured three games: New Zealand v Canada, ZImbabwe v Ireland and Scotland v Nepal.
We start the show by discussing the Black Caps' win against Canada, which confirmed their progression to the Super 8 phase of the tournament. On paper it looked like a straightforward day at the office, until Yuv
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 10 - Live reactions as one team is voted off the island...
In this episode we tried something different. Baldy joined Binksy and Raj on the pod, with Raj and Binksy having watched the overnight games and having prepared. Baldy joined with live reactions not knowing the scores to get real-time, unfiltered feedback on the games overnight, especially Australia's must-win fixture with hosts Sri Lanka.
The cricket wasn't pretty - neither were the reactions.
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 9: Big guns flex their muscle
It's 9 days into the tournament and two big guns flexed their might overnight with commands performances.
Starting with India, Ishan Kishan was batting on a different surface as his 77 proved decisive in the match against Pakistan. Pakistan played all six spinners and held India through the middle overs, but key moments didn't go their way. A near hattrick for Saim Ayub, and an LBW shout could
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 8: Black Caps' bowling struggles, England's execution & were the gloves touching or not?
In this episode of the show, Raj and Stu look back at Day 8 of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which featured three games: Ireland v Oman, England v Scotland and New Zealand v South Africa.
We start the show by discussing the Black Caps' top of the table clash against South Africa, which unfortunately didn't go the way the New Zealanders were hoping. Tim Seifert and Finn Allen raced out of the ga
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 7: We've got our first big upset...
Baldy has had an absolute nightmare overnight as Australia fall to Zimbabwe overnight leaving their progression out of the group stage in peril. Whether it's a loss of identity, a failure to execute, or just a perfect performance by Zimbabwe, Raj, Baldy, and Jamie break down the first big upset of the tournament. There's a lot to unpack in that (lack of) performance by the Aussies - the batting ef
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 6: Varun shines again, the Azzurri's big win and Sri Lanka crush Oman
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu look back at Day 6 of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which featured three games: Sri Lanka v Oman, Nepal v Italy and India v Namibia.
We start the show by discussing India's cruise to victory against Namibia, which saw the return of Jasprit Bumrah and another masterclass from Varun Chakravarthy. There were runs from Ishan Kishan at the top, and a bit of
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 5 Review: Unbelieve Opportunities Gone Begging...
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Raj look back at Day 5 of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which featured three games: South Africa v Afghanistan, Australia v Ireland and West Indies v England.
We start the show by discussing the Super Over mayhem as South Africa survived about a million scares to prevail against Afghanistan in surely one of the best T20 internationals ever. Ramanullah Gurbaz
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 4 Review: Dutch Bas-ball, NZ power home again & Pakistan beat USA
In this episode of the show, Binksy and Stu look back at Day 4 of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which featured three games: Netherlands v Namibia, New Zealand v UAE and Pakistan v USA.
We start the show by discussing the Black Caps' win against the UAE, which saw them power home thanks to a record-breaking partnership between Tim Seifert & Finn Allen. We talk about playing smart, bowling rotat
ICC Men's T20 World Cup Day 2 Review - Black Caps stay calm, Nepal's near miss & Sri Lanka spins a web
In this episode of the show, Binksy and Stu look back at Day 2 of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which featured three games: New Zealand v Afghanistan, England v Nepal and Sri Lanka v Ireland.
We start the show by discussing the Black Caps' crucial victory against Afghanistan. Lockie Ferguson dismissed the dangerous Gurbaz & Ibrahim inside the powerplay, but it was Gulbadin Naib who powered Afg
ICC Men's T20 World Cup: Day 1 Review: SKY stars, Faheem's heroics & catches win matches
In this episode of the show, Raj and Stu look back at Day 1 of the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, which opened with three games today: Pakistan v Netherlands, West Indies v Scotland and India v USA.
We start the show by discussing India's game against the USA, which saw the hosts open the tournament with a win - but not without a few stutters along the way. An early score of 45-1 quickly became 77-
2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup Preview: Black Caps' chances, bold predictions & will India go back-to-back?
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy, Raj and Stu preview the Men's ICC T20 Cricket World Cup 2026. We discuss the key contenders from each group and the questions facing their sides, then make predictions about how the tournament will play out.
We start the show with a quick tournament explainer, before moving on to Group A, which features India, Pakistan, Namibia, Netherlands and the US
This Week in Cricket #197: Glenn Phillips in form, who would be a bowler & World Cup or bust for Baz?
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu chat about the Black Caps' white-ball series in India, the vibes in the England camp over in Sri Lanka, discuss some future stars at the ICC Under-19 World Cup and finish things off with a big announcement!
We start the show by talking about the Black Caps' white-ball tour to India, which at the time of recording was two games into the T20 seri
This Week in Cricket #196: Black Caps v India, T20 World Cup squad & the NZ20
In this episode of the show, it's a heavy New Zealand focus as Baldy, Raj and Stu discuss the Black Caps' white-ball series in India, New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad and the potential for the NZ20 - a proposed privately-backed T20 franchise league to replace the Super Smash.
We start the show by talking about the Black Caps' white-ball tour to India, which at the time of recording was only tw
The Ashes 2025/26 Review: Did Travis Head & Mitchell Starc put an end to Bazball?
In this episode of the show, the Top Order Podcast team look back at the final Ashes Test between Australia and England (and the series as a whole), which ended with another victory for the home side to seal a dominant 4-1 scoreline.
We start the show with our initial thoughts and reactions at the end of the Sydney Test and Australia's Ashes win in commanding style. In many ways, the game in Sy
The Ashes 4th Test Review: MCG Mayhem as England win the Boxing Day Test
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu look back at the fourth Ashes Test between Australia and England, which saw the visitors secure their first victory on Australian soil in almost 15 years.
We start the show by talking about our experiences of yet another two-day Test. For Binksy, as an English fan, was this a hollow victory since the series has already been lost? Or a joyous, h
The Ashes is Lost... A not so Merry Ashes Review
In a calamitous episode all around Jamie, Baldy, and Raj wrap up the Ashes far too early in the Southern Hemisphere summer.
While England were (more) competitive in the final two days in Adelaide the native South Australians in Travis Head and Alex Carey won the day meaning Australia retained the urn in 11 days. Baldy - ruthless as ever - still wasn't totally satisfied and struggles to come to
Pete Handscomb: The Ashes experience, batting in India & facing up to challenges
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Jamie and Stu chat with Australian international Pete Handscomb about The Ashes and the ups and downs of his cricket career so far.
We start the show by diving into Pete's experience watching the Ashes as someone playing first-class cricket and with a lot of connections on both sides. Has anything come as a surprise so far? How tough is the challenge as a bat
Black Caps v West Indies Second Test Review: Duffy & the debutants shine as NZ take the lead
In this episode of the show, Stu and Raj look back at the second Test between New Zealand and the West Indies, which saw the Black Caps take a 1-0 series lead at the Basin Reserve in Wellington.
We start with our initial reaction to a game between two teams with a host of changes, that at times looked set to be closely fought but ultimately ended in a comfortable victory for the Black Caps. The
The Ashes 2nd Test Review: Starc & Root become legends, but it's still Bazball without brains
In this episode of the show, it's a full house as we look back at the second Ashes Test between Australia and England, which saw the hosts take a 2-0 lead after a comprehensive win at the Gabba.
As per tradition, we start with the victors: first to praise Australia and then to attempt to understand why they've been so dominant so far - and where England have let themselves down. There's talk o
Black Caps v West Indies First Test Review: Hope, Greaves & Roach bat for days & NZ's injury crisis
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Stu and Raj look back at the first Test between New Zealand and the West Indies, and give a brief shout out to Virat Kohli and a live reaction to the goings on in the second Ashes Test.
With England and Australia still on the field at our regular Sunday recording time (check back in a day or two for our wrap of that match), we dedicated the majority of this e
This Week in Cricket 195: Black Caps v West Indies Test preview, India's home discomforts & can England bounce back?
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy and Stu look back at South Africa's 2-0 sweep of India, and look ahead to the upcoming series between the Black Caps and the West Indies, as well as the second Ashes Test.
We start the show by discussing South Africa's dominant victory against India in the second and final Test of that series, which saw lower-order runs from Senuran Muthusamy and Marco
The Ashes First Test Review: Brilliant bowling, brainless batting & what have we just watched?
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy, Jamie and Stu look back at the first Test between Australia and England, which was action-packed but was finished within two days.
There was plenty of drama in the lead-up to The Ashes, but that was nothing compared with the rollercoaster we saw on the field. Mitchell Starc started with a bang, England's pace battery hit back and it seemed like things
India v South Africa First Test Review: Harmer stars at Eden Gardens as the visitors go 1-0 ahead
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu look back at the first Test between India and South Africa, which saw the hosts take a 1-0 series lead at Eden Gardens.
A quickfire Test but plenty of talking points as seam dominated day 1 and then spin took centre stage on days 2 and 3. Jasprit Bumrah's remarkable skills were on display yet again, Simon Harmer continued his good form and Ravindra Jad
The Ashes Preview 2025-26: The hype is over, it's cricket time
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy, Jamie, Raj and Stu look ahead to the 2025-26 Ashes series between Australia and England.
As usual, the Ashes hype machine has been in overdrive in recent months, but the cricket is finally (almost) here and the Top Order team are fizzing. We talk squads and potential line ups, key players and matchups, grounds and conditions, storylines to watch for a
This Week in Cricket #194: Black Caps hold on, Ashes news & India v South Africa preview
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Raj and Stu look back at the cricketing week that was, which saw NZ in T20 action against the West Indies, India win the Women's World Cup and Australia name their squad for the first Ashes Test. We also look ahead to an intriguing Test series between India and South Africa.
We start the show by congratulating India on their Women's World Cup win, before movi
This Week in Cricket #193: Black Caps sweep England, World Cup upsets & Ashes questions
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Binksy and Stu look back at the past two weeks, which saw NZ sweep England in an ODI series, Rohit & Virat roll back the years, Women's World Cup upsets & South Africa win a Test away in Pakistan.
We start the show in New Zealand, where the Black Caps beat England 3-0 in the ODI series after a rain-affected false start to the international summer. There were
This Week in Cricket #192: Santner's presence, Queensland's loose bus change & Test Twenty thoughts
In this episode of the show, Baldy, Binksy, Jamie and Stu look back at a rainy week on the cricketing calendar, which saw England begin a T20 series against the Black Caps, Australia hosting India, Pakistan defeating South Africa, rain dent the White Ferns' chances at the Women's World Cup and the advent of a new format (that looks somewhat similar to an old format and a current one).
We start
This Week in Cricket #191: West Indies show some fight, White Ferns under pressure & NZ v England
In this episode of the show, the Raj, Baldy and Stu look back at a busy week on the cricketing calendar, which saw India wrap up a 2-0 Test series victory against the West Indies, Australia's women continue to roll on in the World Cup and Sean Solia keep Samoa's T20 WC chances alive. We also look ahead to the upcoming series between the Black Caps and England, and provide a live update as South Af
This Week in Cricket #190: Marsh & Gardner star for Australia, India's big win & farewell Chris Woakes
In this episode of the show, the team look back at a busy week on the cricketing calendar, which saw Australia's men and women get the better of their New Zealand counterparts, India secure an innings victory in their first Test against the West Indies and Chris Woakes call stumps on his Test career.
We start the show in India, where the home side demolished the West Indies by an innings in the
Asia Cup Final Review: Pakistan's collapse, Tilak & Dube's crucial role & an exciting summer ahead
In this episode of the show, Baldy and Stu recap the India v Pakistan Asia Cup final and take a brief look at all the cricket to look forward to over the next few months.
We start the show by talking about Pakistan's impressive start, with Farhan and Fakhar combining to reach a score of 113-1. And then the wheels fell off as a mixture of excellent spin bowling and poor shot selection led to the
This Week in Cricket #189: England's Ashes squad, Asia Cup final preview & QDK unretires
In this episode of the show, Raj, Baldy and Binksy look ahead to the India v Pakistan Asia Cup final and the Women's World Cup, plus discuss England's squad for The Ashes and Quinton de Kock's decision to unretire.
We start the show once again by talking about the Asia Cup, which is set to conclude with an India v Pakistan final. It's the game the crowds wanted, but will it live up to the hype?
This Week in Cricket #188: Abhishek & India do it again, Black Caps T20 squad depth & the NZ A tour tick
In this episode of the show, Raj and Stu discuss India v Pakistan at the Asia Cup, the Black Caps' T20 squad to take on Australia, NZ A's tour to South Africa and the start of Australia A's tour to India.
We start the show once again by talking about another dominant Indian performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup - this time in the Super 4 stage. Last week it was two brilliant allrounders
This Week in Cricket #187 - India's allrounders shine, England makes 400 & Rhys Mariu's double ton
In this episode of the show, Jamie and Stu discuss India v Pakistan at the Asia Cup, the white-ball series between South Africa & England, NZ A's tour to South Africa and the NZC casual contracts that leave the Black Caps with some tough decisions in the build up to the T20 World Cup.
We start the show by talking about India's dominant performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup group stage. W
This Week in Cricket #186: Ross Taylor returns, Jamie Overton bids farewell & South Africa keep on rolling
In this episode of the show, Binksy, Baldy, Raj and Stu discuss the white-ball series between South Africa & England, NZ A's tour to South Africa and Ross Taylor's return to the international arena.
We start the show by talking about South Africa continuing to impress across all formats, this time in a white-ball series against England. Aiden Markram at the top of the order has been well suppor
