Episode 226

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Published on:

10th Dec 2025

#231 – Have England Lost Their Identity? The Bazball Blind Spot Exposed

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Episode Summary:


In this episode, the host dives deep into England’s early struggles in the Ashes series and makes a compelling case that the root issue isn’t talent, it’s identity. While Australia has rebuilt itself in the post–sandpaper era with a clear cultural direction under Pat Cummins, England appears stuck in a rigid “Bazball” ideology that’s no longer serving them in Australian conditions. The episode dissects how Australia’s openness, individual expression, and team cohesion contrast with England’s increasingly prescriptive, ultra-aggressive style, which seems to ignore the unique strengths and preferences of individual players.


Through examples such as Will Jacks’ standout performance, the host highlights how players outside the Bazball “bubble” show more adaptability and situational awareness. From poor preparation to questionable shot selection, including batting coach comments that stunned the cricket world, the narrative shows a team relying on hype over fundamentals. The conversation expands beyond cricket, tying identity back to individual performance, leadership, and alignment in any team environment. With insights from past guests like high-performance strategist Darren Holder, the episode underscores that knowing who you are, individually and collectively, is at the core of sustained success.


Listeners walk away not only with a sharper understanding of England’s tactical and cultural missteps but also with a broader reflection on how clarity, alignment, and self-awareness drive high performance in sport, business, and life.


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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About the Podcast

Sport Is Life
It's More Than Just A Game
The Sport Is Life podcast explores how sport can positively change your life. Join us as we delve into the powerful life lessons that sport teaches you, lessons that can be applied to every aspect of your life. Host Ian Hawkins shares wisdom and insights gained from a lifetime of experience as an athlete, husband, father, PE teacher, community volunteer, manager at Fox Sports and a performance coach to elite athletes, business owners, corporate leaders, and other coaches. Tune in to hear how sports can provide the tools you need to excel in your personal and professional life. From practical advice to heartfelt stories, the "Sport Is Life Podcast" is your guide to unlocking the potential within you through the power of sport.

Sport is more than just a game; Sport Is Life.

About your host

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Ian Hawkins

Ian Hawkins, host of "Sport Is Life," 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.