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Episode Summary:
Recorded on New Year’s Day in true holiday mode, this relaxed Week in Review episode sees Ian Hawkins and Steve unpack the biggest talking points across Australian sport, with a strong fan-first lens. The conversation kicks off in the world of National Rugby League, breaking down player movement drama, including Francis Molo’s move to the Dragons, and diving deep into proposed NRL rule changes that could significantly alter the flow of the game. From kick-off decisions and extended benches to set restarts and concussion management, the episode captures the tension between improving spectacle and protecting the long-term development of players, especially young halves.
The focus then shifts to cricket and the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with Steve sharing a powerful father–son experience that captures everything fans love about the The Ashes. The discussion balances nostalgia with frustration; analysing pitch preparation, Australia’s fragile top order, modern batting mindsets, and whether Test cricket technique is being eroded by T20 influence. Strong opinions surface around player mentality, selection decisions, and the looming transition challenges facing Australia’s ageing core.
Throughout the episode, the tone remains conversational, humorous, and deeply relatable for sports fans. From crowd antics and Barmy Army banter to broader reflections on where both rugby league and cricket are heading, this episode captures the heartbeat of summer sport. It’s a reminder that fandom is about more than results; it’s about shared experiences, tradition, and the stories we carry long after the final siren or last wicket falls.
About the Host:
Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.
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