#223 – Ian Chappell: Gut Feel, Classic Tales & the Art of Leadership
If you want to get support directly from us to remove your repetitive self-doubt, join our FREE community: The Sport Is Life Movement - https://www.facebook.com/groups/sportislife
Ready to gain the clarity and direction to move forward with purpose, especially when life throws you a curveball? Join the Game Plan training today. https://www.ianhawkinscoaching.com/gameplanmembership
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Sport Is Life, Ian Hawkins sits down with legendary Australian cricket captain Ian Chappell for a raw, insightful, and often hilarious masterclass in leadership, instinct, and the evolution of cricket. Chappell opens up about his famous attacking philosophy long before the modern “Bazball” narrative, explaining why aggressive cricket has been part of Australia’s DNA since the nineteenth century. He dives deep into the mental side of batting, his early coaching, the importance of a strong defensive foundation, and how instinct, not analytics, has always been the heart of great captaincy.
The conversation is packed with stories from the dressing room, the commentary box, and behind the scenes of historic moments in world cricket. Chappell reflects on playing with his brother Greg, learning from greats like Richie Benaud and Bob Cowper, and facing fast-bowling icons like Jon Snow and Andy Roberts. He also shares incredible anecdotes involving Rodney Marsh, Jeff Boycott, Dennis Lillee, and Shane Warne, revealing the mindset, humour, and grit behind some of cricket’s most defining characters.
Chappell also discusses leadership off the field, including his role in the player-pay revolution and the early days of World Series Cricket. He speaks candidly about truth-telling, team culture, learning through conversation, and the value of common sense. From gut-feel captaincy to television mishaps, this episode delivers rare honesty, sporting wisdom, and classic Chappell storytelling, making it essential listening for cricket lovers, leaders, and fans of straight talk.
About the Guest:
Ian Chappell
Former Cricketer
Ian Michael Chappell (born 26 September 1943) is a legendary former Australian cricketer and one of the game's most influential captains. Known as “Chappelli,” he led Australia from 1971 to 1975 and played a key role in establishing World Series Cricket, helping usher in a new era of professionalism. A right-handed batsman who flourished at number three, Chappell was admired for his honesty, competitive spirit, and sharp cricketing mind.
A skilled slip fielder and technically strong batsman, he built his game on solid defense and powerful stroke play, especially the hook shot. After retiring in 1980, he became a respected commentator and journalist, shaping cricket conversations for decades.
Chappell’s impact on the sport has been widely recognised with inductions into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame (1986), FICA Cricket Hall of Fame (2000), Australian Cricket Hall of Fame (2003), and ICC Cricket Hall of Fame (2009).
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.
Join the 2025 Planning Session here https://www.facebook.com/share/1C6AqzhGeY/
Check Me Out On:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ianhawkinscoaching
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianhawkinscoaching
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SportIsLife-IanHawkins
Theme Music Artist:
One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/
See https://www.captivate.fm/privacy-policy-for-listeners for privacy information.
