Cancelled Channel 10 show The Project has ignited controversy over a peculiar social media post urging Australians to refrain from discussing cricket for the remainder of the summer. This comes in the wake of Australia’s commanding 3-0 series victory over England in the Ashes, ensuring the coveted urn remains in Australian hands for the fifth consecutive series.
The post, shared on Saturday by The Project’s official social media accounts, featured an image with the text: “Now Australia has won the Ashes, can we not talk about cricket for the rest of the summer? Thanks in advance.” The caption read: “Time to Christmas without any small talk. Thanks x.” The reaction from fans and media personalities was swift and critical.
England’s Ashes Campaign and Public Reaction
England’s much-anticipated Ashes campaign ended in disappointment, with Australia securing a decisive win in Adelaide. Despite bold claims from England’s camp about their innovative “Bazball” approach and aspirations to revolutionize Test cricket, the team has become the subject of ridicule. Even outspoken UK media figure Piers Morgan acknowledged defeat, though he continues to voice grievances about being taunted by Australian fans in London.
Attention has now shifted to the upcoming Boxing Day Test, where Australia is expected to make several changes to their lineup. Pat Cummins will be rested, Nathan Lyon is sidelined with a hamstring injury, and Steve Smith is anticipated to return from a bout of vertigo.
The Project’s Controversial Post
The Project, which was axed by Channel 10 in June, has maintained an active presence on social media. However, their recent post about the Ashes has not been well-received. Prominent media figures and fans alike have criticized the post. Dan Anstey, host of the Today Show and Triple M, commented, “5-0 awaits, it’s what @piersmorgan requested.” The popular CricBlog account simply replied, “Um, no.”
Criticism continued with Caleb Bond remarking, “This is why the show was cancelled,” while ABC Sport’s official account cheekily referenced Steve Smith’s heated exchange with England bowler Jofra Archer, stating, “You sledge cricket talk when you’re not on the air champion.”
“England still has more life than your show btw,” remarked one fan.
Sports reporter Vince Rugari added, “You literally don’t exist,” while another critic questioned, “Genuinely how did you people think this tweet would be received? About as tone deaf as the rest of your show.”
The Project’s Legacy and Channel 10’s New Direction
The Project first aired in 2009, featuring hosts Charlie Pickering, Carrie Bickmore, and Dave Hughes. Over the years, Peter Helliar, Waleed Aly, and Lisa Wilkinson also joined the panel. The show, known for its blend of news and current affairs, was cancelled in June and replaced by 10 News+, a new program hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. Despite the change, the new show has struggled to capture audience interest.
For many Australians, the excitement surrounding the Ashes remains high, with the possibility of a 5-0 series sweep still on the table. This would mark the third Ashes whitewash this century. England has not won a Test in Australia since the 2010-11 series and has gone winless in their last 18 Tests Down Under.
Looking Ahead: Changes and Challenges
England’s captain Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum have expressed a strong desire to salvage something from the series. Meanwhile, Australia is preparing for the Boxing Day Test with several lineup changes. Cummins, who played a pivotal role in Adelaide by taking six key wickets, will miss the remainder of the Ashes. His participation in next year’s T20 World Cup also remains uncertain.
The T20 World Cup is set to commence a month after the fifth Test in Sydney, and Australia is already managing injuries among its fast bowlers. Josh Hazlewood, who performed exceptionally in the white-ball series against India, is racing to recover in time for the tournament. Jhye Richardson has joined the squad in Melbourne and is a strong contender to replace Cummins, marking his first Test appearance in four years. Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett are also potential replacements, while Todd Murphy is expected to step in for Lyon.
As the Ashes series continues, the focus remains on how both teams will adapt to these changes and the potential impact on future competitions.
