What does it take to build a cricket team in a country where the sport is still relatively unknown? Ryan Hutton and Amelia Valdez share the inspiring story of the Philippines women’s team, while emerging Australian cricketers discuss their journeys, milestones and dreams of reaching the highest level. In this episode, hosts Vatsal Patel and Afnan Malik take you through these inspiring stories and explore the journeys of the players and people shaping the future of cricket.
The latest episode of the SBS Cricket Podcast explores the rise of women’s cricket in the Philippines, featuring Philippines women’s team head coach Ryan Hutton and vice-captain Amelia Valdez. Established in 2019, the women’s program has made progress through the Southeast Asian Games, ICC qualifying tournaments and Asian Cricket Council competitions. Hutton reflects on the team’s two silver medals at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games and the growing recognition of women’s cricket in the country.
The episode also explores the unique journeys of players who represent the Philippines through their Filipino heritage. Valdez, who started playing cricket at around 10 and represented the Philippines at 15, speaks about her pride and the strong bond within the team. Hutton discusses the challenges of developing cricket in a basketball-dominated country and his plans to introduce the sport through schools and basketball courts. He also outlines the team’s goal of strengthening its squad and improving its ICC ranking.
The episode also features two emerging Indian-origin Australian cricketers. Jerrssis Wadia selected for the Cricket Australia XI after impressing with the Adelaide Strikers, reflects on his journey from age-group cricket in India to the Australian pathway. Seventeen-year-old Australian cricketer of Indian heritage Neil Patel, selected in Australia’s Under-19 squad for the tour of India, discusses the pride of representing Australia, preparing for challenging conditions and trusting the process.
