Episode 234

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Published on:

16th Dec 2025

#234 – Have the Poms Lost Their Way? Are the Tigers Next?: Week In Review

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Episode Summary:


In this week’s Sport Is Life weekend review, Ian Hawkins and Steve cover a wide-ranging discussion across cricket, rugby league, and sports culture, blending sharp analysis with relaxed, conversational storytelling. The episode opens with Ashes fallout, questioning whether England have lost their identity after seemingly abandoning Bazball mid-Test. With insights from 2005 Ashes hero Matthew Hoggard and a deep dive into Ben Stokes’ tactical contradictions, the hosts explore momentum, mindset, and how crucial toss decisions and Adelaide conditions could define the remainder of the series.


The conversation then shifts to the NRL, where stability or the lack of it, takes centre stage. The controversial Benji Marshall contract extension at the Wests Tigers is unpacked, highlighting the ongoing turmoil within the club’s front office and the tension between player support and boardroom chaos. The hosts also assess emerging talent, roster construction, and what the Tigers’ future could realistically look like amid constant upheaval.


Rounding out the episode is a lighter but passionate discussion on NRL SuperCoach 2026, including strategy, bargain picks, and the ever-growing obsession with fantasy sports, alongside reflections on the Perth Bears’ revival, sponsorship nostalgia, and long-term club building. It’s a classic Sport Is Life episode, equal parts analysis, banter, and big-picture thinking about how sport reflects leadership, decision-making, and identity.


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.