A Brief History of Cricket Down Under poster

The 1980s — The 80s

Season 1 · 2023 · 11 episodes

The series looks at Australian cricket during the 1980s, a period of change and rebuilding. It covers the rise of important players, major matches, rivalries and the events that helped shape Australia's future in international cricket.

1Fortress AustraliaThe intimidating Australian home environment of the 1980s; Australia's fast-bowling attack, hostile crowds and difficult wickets.
2ThrillersDramatic, close finishes from 1980s international cricket, including matches that went down to the final moments.
3Out of Left FieldUnusual and unexpected incidents from 1980s cricket — moments that seemed almost unbelievable after more than a century of international cricket.
4The Pace RaceThe explosion of fast bowling: Australia's older pace stars and the legendary West Indies four-man pace attack.
5One Of a KindExceptional personalities and players who became cricket icons through more than simply statistics.
6One Day RevolutionThe transformation of limited-overs cricket and the development of ODI cricket as a major form of the game.
7Master BlasterThe great run-scorers of the decade and the batsmen who dominated attacks.
8Gaining The EdgeReverse swing, slow bowling, bat technology and team culture — innovations that gave teams an advantage.
9RivalsThe increasingly competitive and professional nature of international cricket in the 1980s.
10The Leadership FactorThe captains and leadership styles that shaped teams during the decade.
11The Underarm BallAustralia vs New Zealand, MCG, 1 February 1981 — Trevor Chappell's infamous underarm delivery to Brian McKechnie.

Episodes