The "Sydney Smash" Special: 100 Games for Greeny and the Genius of Steve Smith
The latest episode of Chin Music brings together cricket heavyweights Moises Henriques and Chris Green, to chat about everything from the recent Test match drama to the high-stakes Sydney Smash. Tune in to join a few mates talking shop in the Fanatics Clubhouse.
Test Talk: Brisbane and Beyond
The guys dive straight into the rain-affected third Test in Brisbane. Moises doesn't blame India for bowling first, despite Australia’s big score. He points out that while the stats might favor bowling, the real issue for India was a lack of support for Jasprit Bumrah.
"I'm sure if they had—and it is very difficult to have three bowlers of Bumrah's quality—but you know I think when you win the toss and you bowl first you definitely want your seamers to be making impact," Moises explains. "Unfortunately, it was only Bumrah that could really make an impact."
They also touch on the debate about four-day Tests. Moises is a traditionalist, worrying that shorter matches might lead to "spicier" wickets and turn the game into a "toss-off." Chris Green adds that for a spinner, the five-day format is crucial for bringing them into the game late.
The Rise of Sam Konstas
One name on everyone’s lips is 19-year-old sensation Sam Konstas. Moises and Chris are both massive fans, praising his self-belief and poise. Moises even suggests he should be in the mix for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour.
"I remember the first time I saw him bat at New South Wales training, I thought, 'Oh, this kid's just passing through here... he’s not going to be here for long,'" Moises recalls, noting Konstas's "quiet confidence" and ability to block out the hype.
Steve Smith’s Return to Form
Moises, a long-time teammate of Steve Smith, isn't surprised by Smith’s recent century. He describes Smith as a "tinker" who is constantly adjusting his technique mid-game.
"I think it’s a problem for players when they’re tinkering and they’re trying to find something because what they have at the moment isn’t good enough," Moises notes. "Smithy always believes that what he’s got is still good enough to score runs in Test cricket."
Previewing the Sydney Smash
The real tension in the room comes from the upcoming clash between Moises’s Sixers and Chris’s Thunder. It’s a milestone game for Chris Green—his 100th in the Big Bash.
Moises couldn't resist a friendly jab, saying it would be a "great honor" for Chris to play his 100th game "in a losing team." Chris, for his part, is banking on a big performance from David Warner to lead the Thunder to victory.
Career Reflections and "Bunnies"
The episode wraps up with some nostalgic stories. Moises credits veterans like Stuart Clark and Brad Haddin for making him feel he "belonged" when he first started. Chris Green also shares why he gave up his New South Wales contract to play in the CPL, citing the need to stay "on the map" for international selection.
In a funny moment, host Tom Gallop admits he was Chris Green’s "bunny" back in their school cricket days, suffering three golden ducks in a single season. Chris barely remembers it, which only adds to the sting!
Whether you’re into the technical side of the game or just love the banter, this episode is a great look at the personalities behind the pads.
Watch the full episode on Fanatics TV.
