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The Luke Alfred Show

Sports & Recreation Podcasts

Welcome to The Luke Alfred Show. I have 30 years of experience on the front lines of sports journalism, covering some of the biggest games in cricket, rugby, the Fifa World Cup, and even the Olympic Games. Come and join me, as we learn about the greatest sports stories you’ve never heard. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Buy your copy of my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Location:

South Africa

Description:

Welcome to The Luke Alfred Show. I have 30 years of experience on the front lines of sports journalism, covering some of the biggest games in cricket, rugby, the Fifa World Cup, and even the Olympic Games. Come and join me, as we learn about the greatest sports stories you’ve never heard. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Buy your copy of my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Language:

English

Contact:

0832011351


Episodes
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The Biggest Upset In Euros History

6/22/2024
Not Meant to Be There The 1992 Euros weren't the extravagant affairs they are today. Yugoslavia's disqualification due to war threw the tournament into disarray, with Denmark getting a last-minute call-up. Even their best player, Laudrup, skipped the Euros due to disagreements with the coach. Small is Beautiful Sweden hosted the Euros with a modest approach, nicknamed "Small is Beautiful." The mascot was a rabbit named Rabbit! Denmark started slow, drawing with England and losing to Sweden. But team bonding over mini-golf on the eve of their final group match sparked a turnaround. Underdogs Triumph Denmark, now playing aggressively, defeated France and emerged top of their group. They faced the mighty Netherlands in the semi-finals. The game went to penalties, and Denmark's hero, goalkeeper Schmeichel, saved a crucial kick. Victory Over Germany The final against Germany was a historic David vs Goliath clash. Denmark, playing with grit and determination, scored twice and held on for a stunning 2-0 victory. Coach Vogts' atrocious purple tracksuit became a bizarre memory of the match. A Moment in Time Denmark's win was a national celebration, a sweet victory against arch-rivals Germany. It's unlikely to be repeated in today's Euros, dominated by a few powerful nations with superior resources. Football Then and Now The 1992 Euros saw more speculative shooting and less emphasis on possession. Today's game is faster, more technical, and arguably more predictable. While Denmark's win is a reminder that underdogs can prevail, the current landscape of European football makes such fairytales rarer. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:25:13

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How South Africa Swimmers Stole America's Olympic Gold

6/8/2024
The Redemption Games: Ryk Neethling and the Athens Olympics 4x100m Relay This episode dives into the captivating story of Ryk Neethling and the South African 4x100m freestyle relay team at the 2004 Athens Olympics. It's a tale of redemption, teamwork, and overcoming adversity. Bruised by Sydney The 2000 Sydney Olympics were a disaster for Neethling. Ranked in the top three globally for several events, he left empty-handed. The weight of expectation, coupled with the dominance of the Australian team, crushed his spirit. He retreated from competitive swimming for nearly two years. Finding Solace in Water Back in South Africa, Neethling rediscovered his love for swimming. Coaching youngsters and participating in Masters classes reignited his passion. He realized swimming wasn't just about competition; it was his refuge. A Second Chance In 2001, Neethling decided to give competitive swimming another go. He transformed himself from a distance swimmer to a powerful sprinter. However, his journey wasn't smooth. He struggled with self-doubt and strained relationships. Building a Brotherhood Enter Roland Schoeman and Lyndon Ferns. Together, under the guidance of coaches Rick DeMont and Frank Busch at the University of Arizona, they formed a formidable team. DeMont, a former Olympic champion who lost his medal due to a doping controversy, instilled a sense of purpose and camaraderie. Barcelona Blues and a Turning Point A disappointing eighth-place finish at the 2003 World Championships in Barcelona was a wake-up call. Busch and DeMont challenged the team to invest in each other and dream big. They envisioned an Olympic medal. The Quest for the Fourth The team lacked a strong fourth member. After trials and tribulations, Darian Townsend emerged, completing the puzzle. Olympic Antics and American Anomalies The Athens Games weren't without drama. Issues with sponsorships and DeMont's accreditation caused friction. On a lighter note, DeMont used a hilarious anecdote about kudu bulls to motivate the team before the final. Hall's Absence, Ferns' Fury The biggest surprise was the American team's line-up. Trash-talking Gary Hall Jr. was surprisingly benched. Ferns, fueled by Hall's pre-race taunts, swam the race of his life. From Soutie to Hero Townsend, the "soutie" amidst the Afrikaans-speaking "boertjies," silenced doubters with a stellar performance. A Race for the Ages Neethling, anchoring the team, took the lead and held on for dear life in a nail-biting finish. South Africa not only won gold but also smashed the Olympic record set by Australia in Sydney. National Euphoria Back home, the victory sparked national jubilation. Neethling's family erupted in celebration, and impromptu dance parties broke out across South Africa. Redemption Complete The Athens triumph marked Neethling's personal and collective redemption. It proved that with belief, hard work, and a dash of luck, even the most bruised egos can rise to Olympic glory. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:31:13

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Can The Proteas Win The T20 World Cup?

6/1/2024
A Well-Deserved Selection The author praises the selection process, free from external pressures and focused on merit. Coach Rob Walter and Director of Cricket Enoch Nkwe are commended for picking a team they believe can win the World Cup. Reasons for Optimism The team is fit (except Kagiso Rabada's minor injury) and experienced, with players like Markram, Klaasen, Rabada, and Nortje. Form has been a key factor in selection, with Gerald Coetzee replacing Lungi Ngidi based on recent performance. The presence of all-rounder Marco Jansen provides batting depth. A clear batting order is established with Quinton de Kock and Reeza Hendricks opening, followed by Markram, Klaasen, Stubbs, Miller, and potentially Jansen. The bowling attack is well-rounded with Coetzee, Rabada, Nortje, Shamsi (maybe), and Fortuin/Baartman (based on form). Underlying Concerns The lack of black African representation in the squad is a concern (only Rabada qualifies). The author questions the effectiveness of Cricket South Africa's (CSA) transformation efforts despite significant investment. The focus on quotas and targets might have hindered genuine development in townships. The decline of township cricket initiatives like those under Ali Bacher's leadership is lamented. Hope for the Future Despite the transformation concerns, the author acknowledges the squad's talent and potential. Captain Markram's experience and Klaasen's skills inspire hope. Coach Walter's focus and CSA's desire to emulate the success of SA Rugby are seen as positive signs. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:22:50

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The Lowest Point Ever In Springbok Rugby: Lions Tour 1974

5/25/2024
A Foul-Mouthed Parrot and The British Lions 1974 Tour of South Africa. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating and often brutal story of the 1974 British Lions tour of South Africa. Buckle up for tales of: A swearing parrot named PietThe "Boks" (South African national team) Lions coach Willie John McBride's leadershipThe infamous "99" callThe Test series that wasn't televisedThe changing fortunes of the SpringboksDonate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:23:29

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The Artist of Anfield: The Jürgen Klopp Story

5/18/2024
A Charismatic Leader Transforms Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool I dive into the remarkable career of Jürgen Klopp, a manager who wasn't just a superb tactician, but never lost sight of the human touch. From Humble Beginnings to the Brink of Ruin We start with Borussia Dortmund, a club on the verge of financial collapse. Before Klopp's arrival, the team endured a string of uninspiring managers and disappointing results. Enter Klopp, the "Normal One" Despite limited success at Mainz 05, Klopp's potential was recognised by Dortmund's leadership. His infectious enthusiasm and "heavy metal" football, built on relentless pressing, were a perfect fit for the struggling club. Building a Contender Klopp instilled a never-say-die attitude in his players. He rebuilt Dortmund's reputation, transforming them into Bundesliga champions and Champions League finalists. Klopp the Savior At Liverpool, Klopp inherited a team lacking direction. He replicated his success story, forging a relentless unit that defied expectations. Unrivaled Happiness Klopp's reign at Liverpool culminated in a Champions League victory and a dominant Premier League title win. The camaraderie he fostered within the team played a key role in this period of sustained success. The Klopp Blueprint We explore Klopp's core principles, like the mandatory post-defeat socializing, that fostered team spirit and relentless effort. The Human Cost of Success The relentless pursuit of victory takes its toll. We see glimpses of Klopp's weariness under the constant media scrutiny. A Well-Deserved Break As Klopp prepares for his final game with Liverpool, the podcast acknowledges his need for a well-deserved rest. His legacy extends far beyond trophies, as he leaves behind a blueprint for success built on passion, hard work, and a belief in the beautiful game. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:24:02

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The Incredible Feats Of Vaudeville Strongmen

5/11/2024
Exploring the Unconventional: From Marrow-Tossing to Nail-Bending. In the vast landscape of sports journalism, there's often a gravitational pull towards the grandeur of major events and superstar athletes. Yet, there's a hidden world waiting to be discovered in the sidelines, in the quirky, the obscure, and the borderline absurd sports that defy conventional classification. Join me on a journey beyond the mainstream as we venture into the realms of nominal sports and pastimes that blur the lines between sport and spectacle. From the eccentricity of marrow-tossing to the peculiar thrill of gouda-rolling derbies in the Netherlands, we'll uncover the charm and idiosyncrasies of these unconventional pursuits. But beyond the surface amusement lies the heart of these stories, where we encounter individuals like John McGrath, a modern-day strongman with a story as compelling as any Olympic champion. Born and raised in rural Ireland, McGrath's path to strength and recognition was paved with challenges and determination. Through vivid storytelling, we delve into McGrath's upbringing in the hills above Waterford, where resilience was forged through adversity and hard work. From harvesting onions to rowing on the Blackwater, McGrath's journey is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for growth and transformation. As we follow McGrath's evolution from rower to strongman, we're introduced to the legacy of vaudeville legends like Joseph Greenstein, the "Mighty Atom," whose feats of strength captivated audiences in a bygone era. Through their tales, we glimpse the changing landscape of entertainment and the enduring appeal of extraordinary physical feats. The climax of our narrative unfolds on a stage in Newark, where McGrath, following in the footsteps of his idols, attempts a record-breaking feat of nail-bending. With each bend, he embodies the spirit of perseverance and dedication that defines the essence of sport, transcending the boundaries of tradition and expectation. In the end, what emerges is not just a story of athletic prowess, but a celebration of human ingenuity and the indomitable will to push beyond perceived limits. So join me as we celebrate the unconventional, the extraordinary, and the enduring spirit of those who dare to redefine what it means to be a champion, both on and off the field. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:23:37

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The First Man To Ever Run A 4 Minute Mile: The Story Of Roger Bannister

5/4/2024
Breaking Barriers: Roger Bannister and the Four-Minute Mile. Step back in time to May 6, 1954, when history was made on the Iffley Road track in Oxford. Join me as I delve into the captivating story of Roger Bannister's legendary assault on the four-minute mile barrier, a feat that captured the world's imagination and forever changed the landscape of athletics. I transport you to post-World War II Britain, a time of austerity and limited resources. Against this backdrop, I explore the societal and athletic challenges facing Roger Bannister as he embarked on his quest to break the elusive four-minute mile barrier. Discover Roger Bannister's journey from a junior houseman at St Mary's hospital to a pioneering athlete determined to push the boundaries of human achievement. Learn how Bannister's discovery of his own running talent and his relentless pursuit of excellence led him to the brink of sporting history. As the momentous day approached, I delve into Bannister's inner turmoil and the external pressures weighing on him. Explore the pivotal role of weather conditions, personal doubt, and the specter of failure as Bannister grappled with the decision to attempt the four-minute mile. Relive the electrifying atmosphere of the Iffley Road track as Roger Bannister, flanked by fellow athletes Chris Chattaway and Chris Brasher, embarked on his historic assault on the four-minute mile. Experience the tension, the excitement, and the sheer determination that propelled Bannister towards sporting immortality. Explore the far-reaching impact of Bannister's achievement, from his diplomatic goodwill tour of America to his enduring legacy in the annals of athletics. Reflect on the universal lessons of perseverance, courage, and the relentless pursuit of greatness embodied by Roger Bannister's remarkable journey. Join me as I celebrate the indomitable spirit of Roger Bannister and the timeless pursuit of breaking barriers, both on and off the track. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:24:10

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The United Rugby Championship Is Like A Netflix Drama

4/27/2024
United Rugby Championship: Season 3 - The Drama Heats Up! Forget Netflix, this is real-life drama unfolding! The United Rugby Championship's final stretch is packed with nail-biting contests as South African teams fight for a place in the playoffs. The Fallen Champions: The Stormers, victors of Season 1, haven't quite repeated their dominance. They're a powerful team at home, racking up points and tries at Loftus Versfeld. However, their away record is patchy, with losses to Edinburgh and Leinster The Resurgent Lions: These underdogs are the surprise of the season. Despite a shaky start with narrow defeats, they've found their rhythm, becoming the current "bonus-point kings." Their next four matches are all at home, a huge advantage. The Stormers' Struggle: They started strong but have become frustratingly inconsistent. Their high-risk, high-reward style can backfire, leading to losses and a dip in confidence. Key injuries haven't helped either. Coach John Dobson faces a tough decision: stick to his attacking philosophy or prioritize pragmatism? The Race for the Top Spots: With just four rounds left, a whopping 11 teams are fighting for only eight playoff spots! The top four secure home advantage, making the battle even fiercer. More than Just Rugby: The URC season unfolds against a backdrop of significant changes in South African rugby's financial landscape. Private equity is a major player now, with SA Rugby's deal with the Ackerley Investment Group nearing completion. Looking Beyond the URC: The future of domestic competitions like the SA Cup and Currie Cup remains uncertain. Lopsided results and player availability issues cast shadows on their relevance. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:23:01

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How I Fell In Love With Sport Part 2

4/20/2024
In this episode, I take us on a trip down memory lane, exploring my life as a South African boy, with a love for cricket, during the 1970s and early 1980s. We delve into the joy of playing barefoot on the Wanderers outfield, the thrill of watching heroes like Graeme Pollock and Kevin McKenzie in action, and the camaraderie of lunchtime games on the Wanderers outfield. I'll tell you about Ajax Amsterdam, and their iconic thick red stripe and exotic European allure. It explores the imaginative world created through pencil drawings of their legendary players. Back in South Africa, the focus returns to Wanderers cricket, with vivid descriptions of favourite cricketers and their nicknames - "Spook" Hanley, "Dassie" Biggs, and "Yogi" Ferreira. We learn about the bowling styles of Vince van der Bijl and Clive Rice, accompanied by the iconic commentary of Charles Fortune. Fortune's voice is painted as a cultural touchstone, shaping the way a generation of white South Africans perceived and experienced cricket.exclamation His commentary is described as both comforting and ultimately limited, reflecting a world in isolation. The episode is a bittersweet reflection on nostalgia, acknowledging the lost world of yesteryear while embracing the progress of the present. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:25:22

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The Inspiring History Of Women In The Boston Marathon

4/13/2024
Step back in time with me, Luke Alfred, as we trace the footsteps of relentless women who dared to disrupt the Boston Marathon's status quo. Discover how Bobbi Gibb and Kathrine Switzer's audacious strides ignited a revolution in women's sports, transforming a mere footrace into a symbol of gender equality. Gibb’s surreptitious dash from the bushes in '66, clad in men's clothing, and Switzer's groundbreaking, yet contentious, run a year later, marked by an infamous altercation with race official Jock Semple, were not mere acts of defiance but pivotal events that reshaped the sporting world. Witness the emancipation narrative that ensues, echoing the indomitable spirit of Patriots' Day and connecting the marathon's revolutionary past with its egalitarian present. Beyond the struggles and triumphs of these legendary women, we cast a spotlight on the mysterious JJ McDermott, the marathon's first victor whose life story is as elusive as it is fascinating. Plagued by rumors of racing with tuberculosis, McDermott's legacy is a blend of athletic prowess and enigma, with his death and final resting place remaining topics of speculation. Join me in celebrating these captivating tales from the Boston Marathon that not only exemplify the unyielding pursuit of equality but also serve as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for endurance and resilience. This is more than just a race; it's a narrative of heroes and history-makers that continue to inspire every runner that takes to the starting line. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:23:40

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A Horse Named Foinavon: The Greatest Upset In Grand National History

4/6/2024
This week we delve into the rich history and legendary moments of the Grand National steeplechase, and the remarkable victory of the horse Foinavon in 1967. From the historical significance of the race to the unexpected twists and turns, join us as we uncover the unforgettable story behind one of horseracing's most iconic moments. Episode Highlights: The Grand National: A Cultural Phenomenon:Red Rum: A Tale of Triumph and Resilience:The Unlikely Hero Foinavon's Historic Triumph:The Foinavon Fence, A Testament to Triumph:Reflections on Courage and Determination:Join me as we journey through the annals of horse-racing history and celebrate the enduring spirit of champions like Foinavon, whose triumphs transcend the boundaries of time and inspire us to reach for greatness. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:24:32

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The Lockdown Champs League: Remembering Bayern's Flawless 2020

3/30/2024
The 2019/20 Champions League season was a rollercoaster ride marked by unprecedented challenges, overshadowed by the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite its surreal nature, being played in front of no fans, and swift conclusion, this season left an indelible mark on football history. Episode Highlights: The Pandemic's Grip on Football:Bayern Munich's Dominance:The Rise of Lewandowski and Haaland:The Forgettable Final:Looking Ahead:Relive the unforgettable moments and untold stories of the 2019/20 Champions League season by tuning in to The Luke Alfred Show. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:23:46

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How The Springboks Inspired A Boom In SA Club Rugby

3/23/2024
One of the spinoffs of the Springboks winning the Rugby World Cup in 2023, is that club rugby in the country is booming. Quietly, without fuss, and without much wider public or media attention, the numbers are climbing. They have done so for the last four or five months. And it’s good that they’re doing so now, because we stand poised on the cusp of club rugby season. South African club rugby has a protean durability at the best of times, this is true. Estimates suggest, for example, that the country possesses 150 000 players at approximately 1500 clubs scattered across the land, making the South African club system second largest in the world behind France. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:23:30

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Why Cricket Has Lost It's Magic

3/16/2024
Who of us hasn’t driven past a cricket match glimpsed momentarily through a hedge, unable for some good reason to stop? Who of us hasn’t caught a train, the inter-city 9:15 to somewhere, and seen cricket thin-sliced through a speeding carriage window? Circumstances and countries might differ, but this is the cricket match we cannot, for whatever reason, stop for. It is the match that goes on without us and, because of this, it makes us momentarily sad. Were we to somehow stop the car we were in, or get out at the next station and find the match, we would soon be sucked into what we were watching. Cricket is, in this sense, magnetic. It draws you hither. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:23:32

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The Fan Who Infiltrated The Man United Team Photo: Karl Power

3/9/2024
Gary Neville also objected. He knew that Power wasn’t part of the United starting X1 and told Power so. Power told Neville that he was doing this all for Eric Cantona and Gary was to shut up, which seemed to buy him the time he needed to sneak into the photograph. Neville surely didn’t buy Power’s explanation, although he might have been confused in ways he couldn’t quite put a finger on. Power, you see, has a passing resemblance to Cantona and was wearing Cantona’s famous number 7 shirt. Power might almost have passed for “King Eric” except that Cantona hadn’t played for United for going on for four years by the time of the Bayern quarter-final. Perhaps, like Cole, Neville reasoned that this would all become irrelevant because whomever this Cantona lookalike was, he and his baggy shorts would soon be on his way, walking off the pitch and out of history. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:25:10

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Cricket's Most Infamous Ball Tampering Scandal: The Full Sandpaper-Gate Story

3/2/2024
It emerged on day four that the ball-tampering plan had been hatched by senior players in the dressing room at lunchtime on the third day. Smith lost the captaincy and Warner the vice-captaincy, both banned by the ICC for one Test. In Australia, the shame and anger were widespread. Even the Aussie prime minister, Malcolm Turnbull, felt compelled to comment. The tour ploughed headlong into the ground. As an afterthought, there was some cricket. Morné Morkel, who had missed the second Test, took five second-innings Australian wickets as they were bowled out for 107, losing the Test by 322 runs, so the Proteas went 2–1 up in the series after consecutive wins in Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. There was something of the public flogging to all this, particularly when Smith – who, subsequent to his ICC banning, was banned for a year by the Australian Cricket Board – broke down in tears at Sydney airport as he, Warner and Bancroft were sent home. Here was an inarticulate young man, full of everyday frailties, trying to make sense of where it had all gone wrong. Watching Smith’s collapse was not pleasant. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:19:51

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Are Bafana Bafana Finally Good Again?

2/24/2024
I don’t think I’m saying anything controversial in admitting that, like a good friend from university, Bafana Bafana and I have lost touch over the last 10 or 12 years. It hasn’t been an active thing on my part. I haven’t turned my back on Bafana, at least I don’t think I have. Rather, it’s been a passive withdrawal into other things. Keeping in touch requires effort. When occasionally we did get together, I realised we were running out of things to say. The failure to take a goal when it presented itself did become a conversational sticking point, I’ll admit. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:24:24

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James Small: The Springbok Who Died In A Strip Club

2/17/2024
There was something darkly comic about World Cup winning Springbok James Small, losing his life in a strip joint. Some of us might have lost other things – our virginity, our wallets, our self-respect, we might even have lost our mates, or our marriage in a strip joint – but Small wasn’t a small gestures kind of guy. He was all in. And there he was, at The Harem strip club in Bedfordview, a Johannesburg suburb, having his ticker call time on a life he seemed to lose long before he dropped dead. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:22:33

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Why South Africa Overachieves In Sport

2/10/2024
In the year between February 2023 and February 2024, for instance, six South African teams either won or reached World Cup finals, reached World Cup or continental semi-finals or hustled out of the group stages of World Cups to make the round of 16. In order of success, the teams are as follows: the Springboks, who won the Rugby World Cupfinal against arch-foes New Zealand in October, winning the final 12-11 in Paris. Six months before that our women cricketers reached the final of the T20 World Cup at Newlands, beating England in the semi-finals before losing to Meg Lanning’s Australia. Of the semi-finalists, there were three. The Proteas, after winning seven or their nine matches, including wins over England, New Zealand, Pakistan and Australia, in the round-robin phase of the men’s World Cup in India in October, lost to eventual winners, Australia in the semi-final. The SA under-19 men, reached the semi-finals of the under-19 World Cup on home turf, losing a close match against India at Willowmoore Park by two wickets. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:24:04

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Why Financial Fair Play Is Beginning To Bite

2/3/2024
City have been accused by the Premier League of 115 violations of Financial Fair Play regulations dating back 14 years. In the interests of time and brevity we can’t detail all 115 breaches here, but they can all be collapsed into the idea City have failed to provide the Premier League with information that “gives a true and fair view of their financial position”. In addition to these allegations, the Premier League have also accused City of not co-operating fully with their investigation, which began in 2018. Donate to The Luke Alfred Show on Patreon. Get my book: Vuvuzela Dawn: 25 Sporting Stories that Shaped a New Nation. Get full written episodes of the show a day early on Substack. Check out The Luke Alfred Show on YouTube and Facebook.

Duration:00:25:46