Day 48: The Record reviewed

It would be harsh to look into The Record too deeply. After all, it was a celebration of Australia's triumph in last years Women's T20 World Cup. Its title does focus partly on showing the attempt to break the world record for a women's sporting event.

Once the cricket kicks in though you are swept along on the ride that the Australian players take, it is interspersed with the opposing captains' views as they play their part in the tournament.

What becomes evident throughout the two episodes are just how likeable the Australian team are. You could say they are the opposite of their male counterparts, that would be too simplistic a thing to admit, but it has a ring of truth.

It might have been nice to hear the thoughts from more players, although, the players that were used summed up the mood and spirit of what the Australian side is all about. Beth Mooney was something of a surprise. She is one of those players like Rachael Haynes who do their talking on the field.

Overall I think there could have been a bit more depth, maybe with a narrator. Another episode would not have diminished the quality of the overall product.

It is easy to be critical, but it is also significant that these documentaries are being made. When you consider that after Katy Perry finished her post-match concert, some of the teams who competed in the tournament have hardly played any cricket.

It is a timely reminder of women's cricket power and let's hope it sparks some pride and encouragement for the future.

There was good news from India that they have found a new venue for their series with South Africa next month. There were some worries that it would not go ahead.  The five ODIs and three T20Is will take place in Bengaluru.

India's last international fixture was the T20 World Cup final that featured so much in The Record. Even in a global pandemic, it feels wrong that it has taken over a year to get a side the quality of India back on the field.

There are 50 days to go until the men's county championship starts, although more likely fewer by the time you read this. It is always a great time of the year for fans of domestic cricket. There are also 67 days until the women's domestic season starts with a county T20 competition. I cannot wait until either, and you can rest assured that I will be writing about them both.