A successful screening of the Schapelle Corby documentary has assisted Nine win Week 26 (Week 18 of the Official Ratings) with 1.1% between Nine and Seven.
The figures were:
Nine 28.8%
Seven 27.7%
Ten 19.9%
ABC 17.5%
SBS 6.0%
Ten’s performance was disappointing as the network dipped below 20% as the ABC are becoming a real threat to the commercial network and rightly so. The quality of programming being produced by the ABC reflects their growing audience numbers.
Spicks and Specks was the third most popular show on Wednesday night, beaten by Seven News and Today Tonight. Spicks and Specks had 1.34 million viewers nationally continuing the ABC’s strong Wednesday night programming with The Gruen Transfer also in the Top 10 with 1.18 million viewers.
ABC News and The 7:30 Report’s figures are also on the increase returning in very strong performances for the public broadcaster.
Sea Patrol wrapped up for Nine last week in a dramatic second series final and a confirmation that there will be a third installment in 2009. The series has been a strong performer for Nine with 1.4 million viewers tuning in every week and they will be hoping that A Farmer Wants A Wife 2 can build on Sea Patrol’s platform, debuting tomorrow night up against the second series of City Homicide on Seven.
Also higher figures were recorded for The Footy Show (AFL) with the return of Sam Newman and the Ben Cousins exclusive plus Two and A Half Men, Domestic Blitz, Ramsay, Getaway, Fire 000, Search and Rescue and David Attenbrough return strong figures.
This week should be won by Nine with the State of Origin decider on Wednesday but there are a number of new programs being launched on Seven and Nine which could provide a few spoilers.
Tonight Seven launch Private Practice and Lipstick Jungle tackling CSI and Without A Trace while on Monday it’s Seven’s City Homicide versus Nine’s A Farmer Wants A Wife and Tuesday Nine are screening Two and A Half Men (Adults Only) against All Saints.
Hell’s Kitchen (Nine) has the series final against a resurgent Bones (Seven) with The Singing Bee set to replace Ramsay next week in what seems a peculiar scheduling decision.
This week will also not feature the axed, Million Dollar Wheel as Nine have ‘boned’ the 2008 version of Wheel instead screening an hour of Antiques Roadshow to hopefully deliver a better platform to Nine News and A Current Affair.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Friday, June 27, 2008
Will Iemma "Carr and Run"?
With the latest opinion poll showing voter dissatisfaction with the New South Wales Premier, has the time come for a change at the top of the NSW Labor Party?
Bob Carr left New South Wales high and dry wiping his hands clean before the sh*t hit the fan leaving Iemma to face the dilemma.
Transport, Education, Roads, Hospitals and Infrastructure... if it can go wrong in NSW it does go wrong.
Iemma has had a difficult baptism as Premier since his posting in August 2005. Carr left Iemma with all the personnel, corruption claims and Government incompetence that has left our State in a mess since the March 2007 election.
Labor has a maximum four year term but 15 months after being returned to office the Coalition, for the first time since State Labor Governance in 1992 has been ahead in the opinion polls.
The Leader of the Opposition, Barry O’Farrell has become NSW voters preferred premier capturing 38% of the News Poll survey while Iemma trails on 32%.
So what will Iemma do?
There appears to be no solution to our worsening roads as petrol increases and more people flock towards overcrowded trains and buses whilst the public ask where are the plans for the next instalment of busses and trains?
The buses in operation like the new Volvo bendy-busses have been deemed unsafe and are currently not road-worthy while new promised trains and carriages have been delayed.
Even the train ticketing systems needs an upgrade while the back-up systems on our roads and tunnels, notably the Spit Bridge incident this week and the failure of the M5’s backup electronic system are inexcusable.
Doctors, Nurses and new hospitals are needed. Teachers, education resources and new classrooms need investment all the while there appears to be no plans and no money to spend on necessities and even the Premier’s own party disagree on the sale of the State’s electricity sector.
So who are the personnel we have voted in to run our state?
Negligent councillors, paedophiles, corrupt councillors and people who abuse their position of power.
From Carl Scully’s sacking in 2006 over his handling of the Cronulla Riots to Milton Orkopoulos being arrested, charged and jailed for child sex offences.
With more current issues such as the Wollongong Council corruption scandal where councilors and devleopers were allegedly involved in the donating funds to the Labor Party which brought a number of Iemma Ministers into question most notably Ports Minister Joe Tripodi as well as Police Minister David Campbell, Housing Minister Matt Brown and Planning Minister Frank Sartor.
The credibility of the Iemma Governement and it’s Ministers has been questioned over and over again by the New South Wales public who have had enough.
John Della-Bosca and the ‘Iguana Affair’ is another issue the embattled Premier certianly did not need. Iemma has ‘stood aside’ Della-Bosca pending police investigations.
Iemma must sack him to restore some of his own and his Party’s credibility.
With a maximum time of two years and nine months left until the next election, the Coalition surely could not lose the election whilst the voters must suffer another two years and nine months of pain and suffering.
Can Labor do anyworse, go to new lows and find more dodgy ministers and more scandals to involve themselves in?
And what will Iemma do?
Bob Carr left New South Wales high and dry wiping his hands clean before the sh*t hit the fan leaving Iemma to face the dilemma.
Transport, Education, Roads, Hospitals and Infrastructure... if it can go wrong in NSW it does go wrong.
Iemma has had a difficult baptism as Premier since his posting in August 2005. Carr left Iemma with all the personnel, corruption claims and Government incompetence that has left our State in a mess since the March 2007 election.
Labor has a maximum four year term but 15 months after being returned to office the Coalition, for the first time since State Labor Governance in 1992 has been ahead in the opinion polls.
The Leader of the Opposition, Barry O’Farrell has become NSW voters preferred premier capturing 38% of the News Poll survey while Iemma trails on 32%.
So what will Iemma do?
There appears to be no solution to our worsening roads as petrol increases and more people flock towards overcrowded trains and buses whilst the public ask where are the plans for the next instalment of busses and trains?
The buses in operation like the new Volvo bendy-busses have been deemed unsafe and are currently not road-worthy while new promised trains and carriages have been delayed.
Even the train ticketing systems needs an upgrade while the back-up systems on our roads and tunnels, notably the Spit Bridge incident this week and the failure of the M5’s backup electronic system are inexcusable.
Doctors, Nurses and new hospitals are needed. Teachers, education resources and new classrooms need investment all the while there appears to be no plans and no money to spend on necessities and even the Premier’s own party disagree on the sale of the State’s electricity sector.
So who are the personnel we have voted in to run our state?
Negligent councillors, paedophiles, corrupt councillors and people who abuse their position of power.
From Carl Scully’s sacking in 2006 over his handling of the Cronulla Riots to Milton Orkopoulos being arrested, charged and jailed for child sex offences.
With more current issues such as the Wollongong Council corruption scandal where councilors and devleopers were allegedly involved in the donating funds to the Labor Party which brought a number of Iemma Ministers into question most notably Ports Minister Joe Tripodi as well as Police Minister David Campbell, Housing Minister Matt Brown and Planning Minister Frank Sartor.
The credibility of the Iemma Governement and it’s Ministers has been questioned over and over again by the New South Wales public who have had enough.
John Della-Bosca and the ‘Iguana Affair’ is another issue the embattled Premier certianly did not need. Iemma has ‘stood aside’ Della-Bosca pending police investigations.
Iemma must sack him to restore some of his own and his Party’s credibility.
With a maximum time of two years and nine months left until the next election, the Coalition surely could not lose the election whilst the voters must suffer another two years and nine months of pain and suffering.
Can Labor do anyworse, go to new lows and find more dodgy ministers and more scandals to involve themselves in?
And what will Iemma do?
I’m sure Bob Carr would have a few words of advice for Morris... dé ja vu perhaps?
Monday, June 23, 2008
No Bird's About It
The New South Wales State of Origin team maybe forced to choose a new halves combination for the deciding State of Origin clash on July 2 in Sydney.
With Origin 3 just over a week away, the Blues look like incumbent five-eighth Greg Bird will be ruled out with injury and fellow half Peter Wallace is battling a testicle problem.
Bird, who was man of the match in Game 1 along with debutant Wallace looked made as the New South Wales halves combination. After a poor showing in Game 2, both players positions could not be guaranteed for the third match but injury may force the selectors hand.
Braith Anasta must be the New South Wales Number 6 judging by his form this season. His half back partner, Mitchell Pearce wouldn’t look out of place next to Anasta but I don’t think the selectors will gamble on Pearce.
Todd Carney, Brett Kimmorley, Matt Orford, Brett Finch, Kurt Gidley and Ben Hornby are all possible contenders to fill a vacated Number 7 jersey if Wallace is ruled out.
It’d believed that Gidley is the front-runner for the half-back spot in the Blues overlooking the seasoned Kimmorley and Orford who would not look out of place in the sky blue.
Ben Hornby could be the surprise selection. He is a solid, no-nonsense player who has played half-back for his country. Hornby would be a safe option for the Blues and could partner Anasta’s creativity in the halves.
The selectors may also opt for a new prop or two with candidates including Mark O’Meley, Luke Bailey, Ben Cross, Brent Kite and Josh Perry.
The team will be announced tomorrow morning.
With Origin 3 just over a week away, the Blues look like incumbent five-eighth Greg Bird will be ruled out with injury and fellow half Peter Wallace is battling a testicle problem.
Bird, who was man of the match in Game 1 along with debutant Wallace looked made as the New South Wales halves combination. After a poor showing in Game 2, both players positions could not be guaranteed for the third match but injury may force the selectors hand.
Braith Anasta must be the New South Wales Number 6 judging by his form this season. His half back partner, Mitchell Pearce wouldn’t look out of place next to Anasta but I don’t think the selectors will gamble on Pearce.
Todd Carney, Brett Kimmorley, Matt Orford, Brett Finch, Kurt Gidley and Ben Hornby are all possible contenders to fill a vacated Number 7 jersey if Wallace is ruled out.
It’d believed that Gidley is the front-runner for the half-back spot in the Blues overlooking the seasoned Kimmorley and Orford who would not look out of place in the sky blue.
Ben Hornby could be the surprise selection. He is a solid, no-nonsense player who has played half-back for his country. Hornby would be a safe option for the Blues and could partner Anasta’s creativity in the halves.
The selectors may also opt for a new prop or two with candidates including Mark O’Meley, Luke Bailey, Ben Cross, Brent Kite and Josh Perry.
The team will be announced tomorrow morning.
To Schapelle is the Answer!
The Schapelle Corby special has won Sunday night for Nine with huge numbers tuning in to see the first part of the documentary last night.
About 1.7 million viewers watched the first part of the documentary with the conclusion tomorrow night, easily fending off the finale of Grey's Anatomy which managed 1.1 million viewers.
The timing for the special was made for Nine with Schapelle being hospitalised on Friday and some revelations that the baggage handler story was fabricated by Corby's own lawyers was a coup for the documentary and the network's news credibility.
60 Minutes again returned impressive figures with almost 1.8 million viewers while The Battle of the Choirs managed 1.35 million viewers and Big Brother: Live Eviction was a tickle over the million.
Domestic Blitz continues to do just that, Blitz the 6:30PM ratings with 1.5 million viewers which gave Nine a very healthy winning margain for Sunday night.
Nine 34.9
Seven 25.8
Ten 18.1
ABC 16.3
Oz Tam
Those figures are not very encouraging for Ten but a great start to the Week for Nine. Perhpas Schapelle could win the week for Nine.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
To Schapelle or not to Schapelle? That is the Question
Seven (28.2%) has won Week 17 of the Official Television Ratings (Week 25) as predicted by The OP_inion last week with 1.5% separating Seven and Nine (26/7%).
Ten sits on 20.7% and could be challenged by the ABC who posted a healthy 18.8% of the audience share for the week.
60 Minutes was the highest rating show of the week while Seven News and Today Tonight are the nightly strength for Seven plus with no State of Origin or Rugby Union this week ratings were affected.
For Seven, this meant the network could show The Vicar of Dibley on Saturday night which was the second most popular show last night with just over 1 million viewers.
This week should be closely contested with the season final of Sea Patrol on Nine tomorrow night which has had some very good ratings this year especially in the later stages of the season with 1.49 million viewers last week. I expect Nine to announce a third season for the drama.
Sea Patrol will also have the luxury of no Desperate Housewives because the season has been completed instead for one week only, Criminal Minds will fill the 8:30 slot tomorrow for Seven in what appears to be a concession because next week the second series of City Homicide debuts head-to-head with the second season of The Farmer Wants A Wife.
The OP_inion has questioned whether any of the commercial networks would screen Australian dramas head-to-head which has not been done for some time. City Homicide would cost more to produce than Farmer in what appears to be a good challenge for both networks.
Farmer would attract more of Desperate Housewives audience while City Homicide would appear to attract more of a Sea Patrol audience so maybe the viewers will follow suit or stay loyal to their network. It should be interesting, but that is next week.
So will it be the Schapelle Corby special that sinks or makes Nine swim this week? Four hours of Corby seems like a lot but anything is possible… somehow I don’t think the audience numbers will be there and the Grey’s Anatomy final will record higher numbers tonight.
Seven should win the week but the news maybe under threat from Celebrity Million Dollar Wheel, possibly a last ditch effort to continue production of what has been a disappointment so far for Nine.
Ten sits on 20.7% and could be challenged by the ABC who posted a healthy 18.8% of the audience share for the week.
60 Minutes was the highest rating show of the week while Seven News and Today Tonight are the nightly strength for Seven plus with no State of Origin or Rugby Union this week ratings were affected.
For Seven, this meant the network could show The Vicar of Dibley on Saturday night which was the second most popular show last night with just over 1 million viewers.
This week should be closely contested with the season final of Sea Patrol on Nine tomorrow night which has had some very good ratings this year especially in the later stages of the season with 1.49 million viewers last week. I expect Nine to announce a third season for the drama.
Sea Patrol will also have the luxury of no Desperate Housewives because the season has been completed instead for one week only, Criminal Minds will fill the 8:30 slot tomorrow for Seven in what appears to be a concession because next week the second series of City Homicide debuts head-to-head with the second season of The Farmer Wants A Wife.
The OP_inion has questioned whether any of the commercial networks would screen Australian dramas head-to-head which has not been done for some time. City Homicide would cost more to produce than Farmer in what appears to be a good challenge for both networks.
Farmer would attract more of Desperate Housewives audience while City Homicide would appear to attract more of a Sea Patrol audience so maybe the viewers will follow suit or stay loyal to their network. It should be interesting, but that is next week.
So will it be the Schapelle Corby special that sinks or makes Nine swim this week? Four hours of Corby seems like a lot but anything is possible… somehow I don’t think the audience numbers will be there and the Grey’s Anatomy final will record higher numbers tonight.
Seven should win the week but the news maybe under threat from Celebrity Million Dollar Wheel, possibly a last ditch effort to continue production of what has been a disappointment so far for Nine.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Aunti's Up but Triple M falls even further
Adam Spencer could very soon be Number 1 in Sydney Breakfast as he reached his highest ratings in Survey 4, commanding 12.2% of the Breakfast audience (+2%) while Breakfast King Alan Jones dropped to 13.8%. No longer is daylight the closest challenger of Jones but Spencer could realistically defeat Jones.
ABC 702 would be very happy with Spencer’s success after the Breakfast Show suffered after Angela Catterns retirement and then Julie McRossin’s sudden withdrawal left the ABC to gamble on Spencer who has re-invigorated the breakfast show.
Not for Spencer’s former Triple J co-host’s Wil Anderson’s station, Triple M which had a further drop in audience numbers. Despite Wil and Lehmo’s drive show picking up audience numbers, The Shebang dropped to 4.5% (again below 2CH) as Vega 95.3 close in on Triple M. The station overall fell to 5.8%.
2UE (6.6%) also shed 0.5% losing audience numbers across all slots expect weekends which remain unchanged and 2GB (11.6%) while still Number 1 in Sydney dropped 0.4% overall accept Afternoons and Drive increased their numbers. 702 (10.7% ) audience has grown by 1.7% propelling the station into Number 2 behind 2GB.
Nova (8.6%) remained unchanged as Merrick & Rosso & Kate Rithcie (8.7% ) increased slightly by 0.5% whilst rival 2DAYFM (10.2%) dropped 1.2% with Kyle and Jackie O (10.3%) losing 0.8%.
The Todd McKenny scandal increased Mix’s Breakfast ratings by 0.1% while Vega grew 0.7%. Meanwhile WSFM’s strong ratings performance last survey dipped slightly with the station shedding 1% to now read 7.5%.
So will any regular presenters be told that there is no need for them to front for work on Monday?
ABC 702 would be very happy with Spencer’s success after the Breakfast Show suffered after Angela Catterns retirement and then Julie McRossin’s sudden withdrawal left the ABC to gamble on Spencer who has re-invigorated the breakfast show.
Not for Spencer’s former Triple J co-host’s Wil Anderson’s station, Triple M which had a further drop in audience numbers. Despite Wil and Lehmo’s drive show picking up audience numbers, The Shebang dropped to 4.5% (again below 2CH) as Vega 95.3 close in on Triple M. The station overall fell to 5.8%.
2UE (6.6%) also shed 0.5% losing audience numbers across all slots expect weekends which remain unchanged and 2GB (11.6%) while still Number 1 in Sydney dropped 0.4% overall accept Afternoons and Drive increased their numbers. 702 (10.7% ) audience has grown by 1.7% propelling the station into Number 2 behind 2GB.
Nova (8.6%) remained unchanged as Merrick & Rosso & Kate Rithcie (8.7% ) increased slightly by 0.5% whilst rival 2DAYFM (10.2%) dropped 1.2% with Kyle and Jackie O (10.3%) losing 0.8%.
The Todd McKenny scandal increased Mix’s Breakfast ratings by 0.1% while Vega grew 0.7%. Meanwhile WSFM’s strong ratings performance last survey dipped slightly with the station shedding 1% to now read 7.5%.
So will any regular presenters be told that there is no need for them to front for work on Monday?
Monday, June 16, 2008
Kochie’s Choirs isn’t Singing Seven’s victory song
Battle of the Choirs debuted last night with almost 1.5 million viewers in the key 7:30PM Sunday Night slot but they were still 300 000 viewers behind the resurgent 60 Minutes.
Despite the challenge from Choirs, Sunday night was still Nine’s with Domestic Blitz, 60 Minutes, CSI and Without A Trace all winning their time slots.
The audience share was:
Nine 30.4%
Seven 27.9%
ABC 19.2%
Ten 18.5%
SBS 4.1%
OzTam
Choirs numbers are solid but Seven will be disappointed with that figure. The network would have expected the show to beat 60 Minutes and possibly hit the 2 million mark.
While 1.5 million is not a failure, it is also not a win and that figure will likely decrease next week.
Channel Ten’s figures are more of a worry sliding under 20%. Big Brother continues to bomb and is a liability for the network while Rove did not even get to 900 000 viewers.
Fast-track Australian Idol because that is the only show that may save Ten in 08.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Rugby: League wins the week for Nine while Union loses it for Seven
As expected Nine won Week 16 of the Official Ratings (Week 24 of the year) thanks largely to a high-rating State of Origin clash which returned 2.1 million viewers in the metropolitan markets.
While Rugby League won the week for Nine, it was the Rugby Union that lost Seven Saturday night which rates poorly in the markets that it is shown. A repeat of movie Richie Rich with just under one million viewers was all Nine needed last night for the network to secure the week.
The week's figures were
Nine 28.5%
Seven 26.7%
Ten 20.5%
ABC 18.3%
SBS 6.0%
OzTam
Tonight Seven launch The Battle of the Choirs hosted by David Koch and while I am not a fan of the concept for the show, it’s debut will probably, for some reason be successful. Finales of Grey’s Anatomy and Desperate Housewives will also draw viewers this week while Lipstick Jungle and Private Practice are to be launched this month – possibly taking the place of Anatomy and Housewives next week?
Nine have no new shows or surpises on the cards this week apart from another David Attenbrough installment (next week) which has been a surprise hit for the network.
This week will be interesting but I think it may go to Seven.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Why-a-gate?
How come the media has decided to call the John Della Bosca – Iguana restaurant affair, Iguana-gate?
Where does the ‘gate’ come from?
And now on 2UE news at midday Saturday they are calling the incident, Della-gate!
What’s with this ‘gate’ business?
Shouldn’t the incident just be called the Iguana-Della Bosca affair?
Maybe I have missed something but I don’t understand why the word ‘gate’ has to be applied to this incident.
Looking across the news should we start referring to everything as a ‘gate’ or just ‘incidents’?
Possibly Greg Bird getting arrested in Queensland after State of Origin II could be called ‘Bird-gate’ or maybe Hillary Clinton’s failure to win nomination to become US President could be called ‘Clinton-gate’.
Does that make any more sense?
Where does the ‘gate’ come from?
And now on 2UE news at midday Saturday they are calling the incident, Della-gate!
What’s with this ‘gate’ business?
Shouldn’t the incident just be called the Iguana-Della Bosca affair?
Maybe I have missed something but I don’t understand why the word ‘gate’ has to be applied to this incident.
Looking across the news should we start referring to everything as a ‘gate’ or just ‘incidents’?
Possibly Greg Bird getting arrested in Queensland after State of Origin II could be called ‘Bird-gate’ or maybe Hillary Clinton’s failure to win nomination to become US President could be called ‘Clinton-gate’.
Does that make any more sense?
Thursday, June 12, 2008
From Heroes to Zeroes in 80 Minutes
The New South Wales State of Origin side could not manage to score one point, yet alone look as if they were going to score in Game 2.
Convincingly thrashed, the Blues have three weeks to put the loss behind them and ensure they can win the series at home on July 2.
There was no attack from the side who convincingly beat Queensland in Game 1 with half back Peter Wallace getting no support from his forwards or his five-eighth Greg Bird.
Coach Craig Bellamy and the New South Wales selectors will be studying the videos from last night trying to find out where it all went wrong and who is to blame.
Mark Gasnier looked a shadow of his brilliance from Game 1, totally outclassed by his younger opponent, Greg Inglis. Gasnier must have not been 100% fit as he struggled to get into second gear making his defence look atrocious while he was never shown the ball in attack.
Convincingly thrashed, the Blues have three weeks to put the loss behind them and ensure they can win the series at home on July 2.
There was no attack from the side who convincingly beat Queensland in Game 1 with half back Peter Wallace getting no support from his forwards or his five-eighth Greg Bird.
Coach Craig Bellamy and the New South Wales selectors will be studying the videos from last night trying to find out where it all went wrong and who is to blame.
Mark Gasnier looked a shadow of his brilliance from Game 1, totally outclassed by his younger opponent, Greg Inglis. Gasnier must have not been 100% fit as he struggled to get into second gear making his defence look atrocious while he was never shown the ball in attack.
If he is not 100% fit for Game 3 then the selctors must choose from Canberra's Joel Monaghan and Cronulla's Ben Pomeroy who will be putting pressure on the Blues other centre Matt Cooper who went virtually unnoticed last night.
Gasnier’s wing partner Steve Turner was out of his depth at this level and showed that he needed to return to club football as he and Gasnier were found either napping or out of position in defence.
The forwards were the Blues biggest problem with the pack intimidated by a hungry and fired-up Queensland side. Willie Mason can talk the talk claiming that the Queensland supporters are "red-necks" which may have been the motivation that Queensland needed to blow big Willie and New South Wales off the park.
Mason was one of the few New South Wales forwards who played with some vigour as Greg Bird, Paul Gallen and Craig Fitzgibbon went virtually unnoticed.
Fire needs to be breathed into the New South Wales side if they are to hit back and win the series in Sydney.
If Luke O’Donnell was not suspended then he would be playing in Origin 3.
Luke Bailey must be added to the pack and Braith Anasta must be given the nod at five-eighth. Wallace’s position will come under the spotlight but if he has Anasta outside him the Blues will have more attacking opportunities with a real halves combination, not a make shift player in the 6.
Steve Price and Petero Civoniceva showed their class and experience not looking like the ‘senior citizens’ of the Queensland side which may indicate to New South Wales that the pack needs some leaders like Bailey and possibly Nathan Hindmarsh could be in the mix to be recalled.
Joel Clinton should be considered as he knows what is required and has the experience at this level plus the added bonus is he can add some mongrel to engine room which Gallen and Bird lacked last night.
The Blues have a lot of second-row talent and depth with Ben Creagh, Anthony Watmough and Glenn Stewart knocking on the door, the selectors have a considerable headache.
Persistance or wholesale changes?
The team couldn’t even score a point… I know what I’d be doing!
My NSW team, Game 3:
1.Brett Stewart
2.Jarryd Hayne
3.Mark Gasnier
4.Matt Cooper
5.Anthony Quinn
6.Braith Anasta
7.Peter Wallace
8.Luke Bailey
9.Danny Buderus
10.Joel Clinton
11.Nathan Hindmarsh
12.Willie Mason
13.Ryan Hoffman
14.Ben Cross
15.Ben Creagh
16.Kurt Gidley
17.Anthony Laffranchi
IN:
Hayne
Anasta
Bailey
Clinton
Hindmarsh
Cross
OUT
Steve Turner
Brett White
Greg Bird
Craig Fitzgibbon
Paul Gallen
Anthony Tupou
Gasnier’s wing partner Steve Turner was out of his depth at this level and showed that he needed to return to club football as he and Gasnier were found either napping or out of position in defence.
The forwards were the Blues biggest problem with the pack intimidated by a hungry and fired-up Queensland side. Willie Mason can talk the talk claiming that the Queensland supporters are "red-necks" which may have been the motivation that Queensland needed to blow big Willie and New South Wales off the park.
Mason was one of the few New South Wales forwards who played with some vigour as Greg Bird, Paul Gallen and Craig Fitzgibbon went virtually unnoticed.
Fire needs to be breathed into the New South Wales side if they are to hit back and win the series in Sydney.
If Luke O’Donnell was not suspended then he would be playing in Origin 3.
Luke Bailey must be added to the pack and Braith Anasta must be given the nod at five-eighth. Wallace’s position will come under the spotlight but if he has Anasta outside him the Blues will have more attacking opportunities with a real halves combination, not a make shift player in the 6.
Steve Price and Petero Civoniceva showed their class and experience not looking like the ‘senior citizens’ of the Queensland side which may indicate to New South Wales that the pack needs some leaders like Bailey and possibly Nathan Hindmarsh could be in the mix to be recalled.
Joel Clinton should be considered as he knows what is required and has the experience at this level plus the added bonus is he can add some mongrel to engine room which Gallen and Bird lacked last night.
The Blues have a lot of second-row talent and depth with Ben Creagh, Anthony Watmough and Glenn Stewart knocking on the door, the selectors have a considerable headache.
Persistance or wholesale changes?
The team couldn’t even score a point… I know what I’d be doing!
My NSW team, Game 3:
1.Brett Stewart
2.Jarryd Hayne
3.Mark Gasnier
4.Matt Cooper
5.Anthony Quinn
6.Braith Anasta
7.Peter Wallace
8.Luke Bailey
9.Danny Buderus
10.Joel Clinton
11.Nathan Hindmarsh
12.Willie Mason
13.Ryan Hoffman
14.Ben Cross
15.Ben Creagh
16.Kurt Gidley
17.Anthony Laffranchi
IN:
Hayne
Anasta
Bailey
Clinton
Hindmarsh
Cross
OUT
Steve Turner
Brett White
Greg Bird
Craig Fitzgibbon
Paul Gallen
Anthony Tupou
Whispers... Whispers...
George and Paul permanently for 2UE brekky?
Sydney Confidential reported this in the ‘murmurs’ section yesterday that current fill-in breakfast hosts on 2UE, George Moore and Paul B. Kidd maybe offered the weekday gig permanently if Mike and Sandy’s ratings don’t continue to head skywards.
Ugly Phil for Triple M?
The troubled Triple M is currently entertaining the idea of bringing back the former Hot 30 host and ex-husband of fellow Austereo star, Jackie O… Ugly Phil O’Neill. Having hosted Breakfast in London for a few years, could Phil be the next host on Triple M’s Breakfast?
Confidential thinks this may be an option and why not?
The Shebang have struggled to emulate their moderate Drive time success in Breakfast adding former Nova personality, Paul Murray to Marty Sheargold and Fifi Box. The show seems doomed with reports that the three members of The Shebang have issues and even some reports have suggested that either Sheargold or Murray have to go because of each other’s intense dislike for one and other.
If Ugly Phil were to be given the gig then he may bring with him a new team to rival 2 DAY FM.
Sydney Confidential reported this in the ‘murmurs’ section yesterday that current fill-in breakfast hosts on 2UE, George Moore and Paul B. Kidd maybe offered the weekday gig permanently if Mike and Sandy’s ratings don’t continue to head skywards.
Ugly Phil for Triple M?
The troubled Triple M is currently entertaining the idea of bringing back the former Hot 30 host and ex-husband of fellow Austereo star, Jackie O… Ugly Phil O’Neill. Having hosted Breakfast in London for a few years, could Phil be the next host on Triple M’s Breakfast?
Confidential thinks this may be an option and why not?
The Shebang have struggled to emulate their moderate Drive time success in Breakfast adding former Nova personality, Paul Murray to Marty Sheargold and Fifi Box. The show seems doomed with reports that the three members of The Shebang have issues and even some reports have suggested that either Sheargold or Murray have to go because of each other’s intense dislike for one and other.
If Ugly Phil were to be given the gig then he may bring with him a new team to rival 2 DAY FM.
So who could partner Phil?
Bianca Dye is back on radio after departing Nova 969 last year, she has accepted a breakfast role with the Gold Coast’s Hot Tomato which also features former Austrero talents, Paul Holmes and Simon Cranney.
Dye may compliment Phil well and could be a new duo that would refresh Triple M.
What to do with The Shebang?
They worked on Drive while Wil and Lehmo have also battled their way through their first year on air together struggling to challenge 2DAY’s Hamish & Andy.
I have mentioned it before but there is still one man not on radio that could deliver for any network… Tony Martin.
Bring Back Tony Martin.
Bianca Dye is back on radio after departing Nova 969 last year, she has accepted a breakfast role with the Gold Coast’s Hot Tomato which also features former Austrero talents, Paul Holmes and Simon Cranney.
Dye may compliment Phil well and could be a new duo that would refresh Triple M.
What to do with The Shebang?
They worked on Drive while Wil and Lehmo have also battled their way through their first year on air together struggling to challenge 2DAY’s Hamish & Andy.
I have mentioned it before but there is still one man not on radio that could deliver for any network… Tony Martin.
Bring Back Tony Martin.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Seven News thrashes Nine
Unless everyone has taken up the opportunity to watch the news on the internet, then Nine news is in trouble. Dropping the title ‘National’ has not boosted ratings as last night, Seven thrashed Nine by almost 600 000 viewers nationally.
Seven News accumulated 1.7 million viewers and was Australia’s most popular program last night while Nine News lagged in 11th position with a tickle under1.2 million viewers.
Nine lost every single market convincingly with Seven News having almost 200 000 more viewers in Sydney alone. Seven (510 000) versus Nine (307 000)
Seven News accumulated 1.7 million viewers and was Australia’s most popular program last night while Nine News lagged in 11th position with a tickle under1.2 million viewers.
Nine lost every single market convincingly with Seven News having almost 200 000 more viewers in Sydney alone. Seven (510 000) versus Nine (307 000)
Melbourne was slightly better for Nine who lost by only 60 000 viewers. Seven (424 000) versus Nine (362 000) while Brisbane saw Seven win by a similar margin.
Adelaide and Perth were also Seven's by 43 000 viewers and almost three times the audience in Perth where Seven flogged Nine 271 000 versus 100 000 viewers.
The news for fill-in A Current Affair host Eddie McGuire is not much better who had a sensational start to the week with Monday’s ratings some of Nine’s highest with ACA attracting 1.42 million viewers nationally which was marginally behind the winning Today Tonight, 1.47 million viewers.
Tuesday was a different story as Eddie’s honeymoon finished, ACA returned only 1.21 million viewers as apposed to Today Tonight who had 1.5 million viewers and like Seven News had the highest current affairs audience in every major capital city.
Million Dollar Wheel continues to struggle and could now realistically be facing the axe delivering only 561 000 viewers to the news and current affairs hour while Deal or No Deal provides Seven News and Today Tonight with 937 000 people.
So what is so different that makes Seven News more popular?
The lead-in? The reporters? The presenters? Peter Meakin?
Adelaide and Perth were also Seven's by 43 000 viewers and almost three times the audience in Perth where Seven flogged Nine 271 000 versus 100 000 viewers.
The news for fill-in A Current Affair host Eddie McGuire is not much better who had a sensational start to the week with Monday’s ratings some of Nine’s highest with ACA attracting 1.42 million viewers nationally which was marginally behind the winning Today Tonight, 1.47 million viewers.
Tuesday was a different story as Eddie’s honeymoon finished, ACA returned only 1.21 million viewers as apposed to Today Tonight who had 1.5 million viewers and like Seven News had the highest current affairs audience in every major capital city.
Million Dollar Wheel continues to struggle and could now realistically be facing the axe delivering only 561 000 viewers to the news and current affairs hour while Deal or No Deal provides Seven News and Today Tonight with 937 000 people.
So what is so different that makes Seven News more popular?
The lead-in? The reporters? The presenters? Peter Meakin?
And what will Nine do?
Monday, June 09, 2008
George and Paul on 2UE Breakfast
Weekend wizards George Moore and Paul B Kidd are this week hosting 2UE Breakfast while Mike Carlton and Sandy Aloisi take a break.
Having successfully formed the best and highest rating weekend radio program, the duo have finally been given an opportunity in the cut-throat weekday schedule on Breakfast.
And why wouldn’t they succeed if George and Paul are anything to go by another successful George and Paul combination, George Harrison and Sir. Paul McCartney of The Beatles.
George and Paul broadcast from 8-2pm every Saturday and Sunday filling their show with news, information, entertainment, trivia, quizzes, history, fun and laughter.
The stars have not been fully utilised by 2UE but a weekday opportunity is what maybe missing for the dwindling station. This stint on Breakfast may in fact be a trial for George and Paul who would be more than capable of performing for 2UE on any weekday shift.
It is not the only change 2UE has made whilst the regulars holiday over this next two weeks. Former Channel Nine personality and regular 2UE fill-in host, Steve Liebman is hosting the Morning Show and fellow former Nine personality, Don Burke is hosting the Afternoon program.
Prue MacSween is alleviating Stuart Bocking in Nights and John Kerr is taking weekday listeners into the new day for the next fortnight while Jim Ball takes a break.
Channel Ten newsreaders Deborah Knight and Bill Woods will fill in for George and Paul on weekends and Clinton Maynard will do John Kerr’s weekend overnight program with David Prior hosting the Sunday, New Day program this past weekend.
2UE showed some audience growth in the third ratings survey of the year (7.5%) up 1.3% after the station’s worrying start which saw figures go backwards with a new schedule introduced post the John Laws era.
Survey 4 will be released next Tuesday, June 17 while some regular presenters maybe holidaying, sipping a cocktail or two, they maybe told not to worry coming back. Fill-in presenters can sometimes surprise or cause management to re-think programming.
Having successfully formed the best and highest rating weekend radio program, the duo have finally been given an opportunity in the cut-throat weekday schedule on Breakfast.
And why wouldn’t they succeed if George and Paul are anything to go by another successful George and Paul combination, George Harrison and Sir. Paul McCartney of The Beatles.
George and Paul broadcast from 8-2pm every Saturday and Sunday filling their show with news, information, entertainment, trivia, quizzes, history, fun and laughter.
The stars have not been fully utilised by 2UE but a weekday opportunity is what maybe missing for the dwindling station. This stint on Breakfast may in fact be a trial for George and Paul who would be more than capable of performing for 2UE on any weekday shift.
It is not the only change 2UE has made whilst the regulars holiday over this next two weeks. Former Channel Nine personality and regular 2UE fill-in host, Steve Liebman is hosting the Morning Show and fellow former Nine personality, Don Burke is hosting the Afternoon program.
Prue MacSween is alleviating Stuart Bocking in Nights and John Kerr is taking weekday listeners into the new day for the next fortnight while Jim Ball takes a break.
Channel Ten newsreaders Deborah Knight and Bill Woods will fill in for George and Paul on weekends and Clinton Maynard will do John Kerr’s weekend overnight program with David Prior hosting the Sunday, New Day program this past weekend.
2UE showed some audience growth in the third ratings survey of the year (7.5%) up 1.3% after the station’s worrying start which saw figures go backwards with a new schedule introduced post the John Laws era.
Survey 4 will be released next Tuesday, June 17 while some regular presenters maybe holidaying, sipping a cocktail or two, they maybe told not to worry coming back. Fill-in presenters can sometimes surprise or cause management to re-think programming.
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Seven win one back
Channel Seven’s decision to drop The Rich List from its Saturday night schedule and replace the game show with repeats of The Vicar of Dibley has won the network the week.All the millions of dollars networks spend on developing and producing new concepts, Australian dramas, game shows, lifestyle, reality shows, factual documentaries and the like, when all you need is a repeat of a British comedy to win you the week.
If only it was that simple…
It came down to Friday and Saturday night in which Seven and Nine were once again neck and neck but a strong performance from Better Homes and Gardens and the Saturday’s with Seven News, The Vicar of Dibley and The Great Outdoors swung the 8th weekly victory to Seven.
The weekly figures were –
Seven 28.2%
Nine 27.7%
Ten 20.4%
ABC 18.1%
SBS 5.6%
OzTam
In the 15 weeks of ratings for 2008, Seven have now won their 8th week, Nine sit on 6 weeks with one week tied.
Nine are continually let down with their Friday night scheduele with four hours of live and delayed rugby league while the Southern States were subject to 1 v 100, The Closer and Close to Home.
The three programs failed in previous seasons, so why would they work for Nine now?
Australia’s Funniest Home Videos continually wins the 6:30PM slot but Nine’s movies are then a gamble from 7:30. If Nine could screen a similar British comedy, like the successful Doc Martin from the ABC then the week might be theirs.
Million Dollar Wheel has failed to make ground this week which must be hurting Nine’s news and current affairs hour with The Sunday Telegraph and Baby John Burgess launching an attack on host Tim Campbell and the current version of the show… sour grapes Baby John?
Burgess hosted Wheel of Fortune successfully during the 1990’s and publicly criticized Nine on his Melbourne breakfast show when they decided to bring the format back, without him. It would be bitter sweet for Burgess if Campbell and the game show fail.
To Week 16 which tonight sees Australia’s Most Popular show 60 Minutes airing which should give Nine and good lead into the week. The 2nd State of Origin airs on Wednesday night as well as Eddie McGuire sitting in the A Current Affair hot seat and the week is guaranteed to be Nine’s.
Channel Ten is more of a concern sliding to it’s lowest figure of 2008, 20.4% and without House this week the network may slide under the 20% mark which is a major concern to Ten.
Didn’t The Footy Show sum up the appointment of Big Brother 2008 with Kyle and Jackie O as hosts? …. Why Bother? 08
Nine are continually let down with their Friday night scheduele with four hours of live and delayed rugby league while the Southern States were subject to 1 v 100, The Closer and Close to Home.
The three programs failed in previous seasons, so why would they work for Nine now?
Australia’s Funniest Home Videos continually wins the 6:30PM slot but Nine’s movies are then a gamble from 7:30. If Nine could screen a similar British comedy, like the successful Doc Martin from the ABC then the week might be theirs.
Million Dollar Wheel has failed to make ground this week which must be hurting Nine’s news and current affairs hour with The Sunday Telegraph and Baby John Burgess launching an attack on host Tim Campbell and the current version of the show… sour grapes Baby John?
Burgess hosted Wheel of Fortune successfully during the 1990’s and publicly criticized Nine on his Melbourne breakfast show when they decided to bring the format back, without him. It would be bitter sweet for Burgess if Campbell and the game show fail.
To Week 16 which tonight sees Australia’s Most Popular show 60 Minutes airing which should give Nine and good lead into the week. The 2nd State of Origin airs on Wednesday night as well as Eddie McGuire sitting in the A Current Affair hot seat and the week is guaranteed to be Nine’s.
Channel Ten is more of a concern sliding to it’s lowest figure of 2008, 20.4% and without House this week the network may slide under the 20% mark which is a major concern to Ten.
Didn’t The Footy Show sum up the appointment of Big Brother 2008 with Kyle and Jackie O as hosts? …. Why Bother? 08
Friday, June 06, 2008
Eddie Everywhere… including hosting A Current Affair?
The hibernation of Eddie McGuire may be over with the former Chief Executive Officer set to return to LIVE television next week on Nine.
At 11:12PM tonight, Friday on TCN Nine, Sydney, during the commercial break of the Rugby League during the Warriors versus Rabbitohs clash there was ad for next week’s A Current Affair which includes a story about the real home videos of the Underbelly actors.
As A Current Affair ads finish they usually show the ACA logo with Tracy Grimshaw (or Leila McKinnon when she was filling in last week) but tonight’s commercial had a picture of Eddie McGuire.
Is this true, is McGuire hosting ACA next week?
At 11:12PM tonight, Friday on TCN Nine, Sydney, during the commercial break of the Rugby League during the Warriors versus Rabbitohs clash there was ad for next week’s A Current Affair which includes a story about the real home videos of the Underbelly actors.
As A Current Affair ads finish they usually show the ACA logo with Tracy Grimshaw (or Leila McKinnon when she was filling in last week) but tonight’s commercial had a picture of Eddie McGuire.
Is this true, is McGuire hosting ACA next week?
Grimshaw still has next week off with her move to Melbourne so perhaps Nine is trialing the new home of ACA which will now be broadcast from the Melbourne studio to accommodate Grimsahw’s move.
Could McGuire be ACA’s missing ingredient?
We’ll find out Monday, 6:30 on Nine.
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Nine News Now LIVE on Ninemsn at 6PM
Can't get home to watch the news at 6PM?
Now ninemsn.com.au are showing Nine News bulletins live at 6PM (AEST).
Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane viewers can now choose to watch Mark Ferguson or Peter Hitchener or Brisbane's duo: Bruce Paige and Heather Foord on the internet.
You can access all three states news bulletins in what must be a first for Australian television.
The chance to get more viewers and another way the advertising dollar goes that little bit further.
Nine News weeknights at 6PM on your TV or LIVE on the internet.
Now ninemsn.com.au are showing Nine News bulletins live at 6PM (AEST).
Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane viewers can now choose to watch Mark Ferguson or Peter Hitchener or Brisbane's duo: Bruce Paige and Heather Foord on the internet.
You can access all three states news bulletins in what must be a first for Australian television.
The chance to get more viewers and another way the advertising dollar goes that little bit further.
Nine News weeknights at 6PM on your TV or LIVE on the internet.
Kochie versus 60 Minutes
It’s the Battle of Sunday night’s…
In the Red corner we have the challenger, Seven who has struggled to dominate Sunday’s with the falling Gladiators, My Name is Earl, Most Shocking and Grey’s Anatomy (unlike the winning Where Are They Now? / Ugly Betty / Grey’s Anatomy line-up of 2007)….
Against the Champion in the Blue Corner, Nine with a resurgence from 60 Minutes, strong ratings from Domestic Blitz (and before that Royal Flying Doctor Service / Medical Emergency) and the dominant CSI.
Seven are pinning their hopes on David Koch who will attempt to unearth 60 Minutes in the key 7:30PM Sunday night slot. Kochie’s Battle of the Choirs will be screened from Sunday week, June 15.
Competiting choirs vying for $100 000 = riveting television... NOT
Will it work?
I don’t think so.
In the Red corner we have the challenger, Seven who has struggled to dominate Sunday’s with the falling Gladiators, My Name is Earl, Most Shocking and Grey’s Anatomy (unlike the winning Where Are They Now? / Ugly Betty / Grey’s Anatomy line-up of 2007)….
Against the Champion in the Blue Corner, Nine with a resurgence from 60 Minutes, strong ratings from Domestic Blitz (and before that Royal Flying Doctor Service / Medical Emergency) and the dominant CSI.
Seven are pinning their hopes on David Koch who will attempt to unearth 60 Minutes in the key 7:30PM Sunday night slot. Kochie’s Battle of the Choirs will be screened from Sunday week, June 15.
Competiting choirs vying for $100 000 = riveting television... NOT
Will it work?
I don’t think so.
Seven are on a time bomb with this one. 60 Minutes is back. Dancing With the Stars has been done and will be back, It Takes Two 2008 has been screened and figures were down, so why would choirs be any different?
Seven still have some ammunition within their armour in what has been a successful slot for Australian drama and/or comedy with Kath & Kim and Ugly Betty finding success in the 7:30 slot.
Seven still have some ammunition within their armour in what has been a successful slot for Australian drama and/or comedy with Kath & Kim and Ugly Betty finding success in the 7:30 slot.
Packed to the Rafters would appear as the perfect fit to their 7:30 Sunday slot. Maybe it is coming and maybe I am going to be proved wrong about Kochie’s Choirs but I don’t think the show will be as big a success as Seven are hoping.
The network has also announced a new reality TV series, Make Me A Supermodel which is cashing in on the success of Fox 8’s Australia’s Next Top Model. The Seven series, Make Me comes from the British format which is a smart purchase for the network to appeal to it’s younger demographic. Somewhat of a surprise that Seven has bought the right’s to what appears on the surface to be a Channel Ten-esque show but nevertheless a clever strategic move.
Seven have also got a lot of new episodes of City Homicide to screen which the network’s scheduele is screaming out for as audience numbers are on the slide with Criminal Minds and Bones being used as 8:30PM shows.
Grey’s finishes up very soon as does Desperate Housewives so expect to see the new spin-off of Grey’s, Private Practice to air in the Grey’s slot, 8:30PM Sunday while City Homicide may replace Desperate Housewives again in what would be an interesting and unique challenge.
Aussie drama versus Aussie drama with City Homicide (Seven, 8:30PM Monday) up against Sea Patrol (Nine, 8:30PM Monday). I cannot remember the last time networks put one Aussie drama against another... can you?
Seven may resist doing this as it has not been done for some time and the Aussie drama sector may wish to protect itself against putting two products against each other.
Which still leaves the debut of Packed to Rafters unknown at this stage while Nine remain tight-lipped about McLeod’s Daughters.
Kochie (The Battle of the Choirs) versus 60 Minutes starts next Sunday, June 15.
The network has also announced a new reality TV series, Make Me A Supermodel which is cashing in on the success of Fox 8’s Australia’s Next Top Model. The Seven series, Make Me comes from the British format which is a smart purchase for the network to appeal to it’s younger demographic. Somewhat of a surprise that Seven has bought the right’s to what appears on the surface to be a Channel Ten-esque show but nevertheless a clever strategic move.
Seven have also got a lot of new episodes of City Homicide to screen which the network’s scheduele is screaming out for as audience numbers are on the slide with Criminal Minds and Bones being used as 8:30PM shows.
Grey’s finishes up very soon as does Desperate Housewives so expect to see the new spin-off of Grey’s, Private Practice to air in the Grey’s slot, 8:30PM Sunday while City Homicide may replace Desperate Housewives again in what would be an interesting and unique challenge.
Aussie drama versus Aussie drama with City Homicide (Seven, 8:30PM Monday) up against Sea Patrol (Nine, 8:30PM Monday). I cannot remember the last time networks put one Aussie drama against another... can you?
Seven may resist doing this as it has not been done for some time and the Aussie drama sector may wish to protect itself against putting two products against each other.
Which still leaves the debut of Packed to Rafters unknown at this stage while Nine remain tight-lipped about McLeod’s Daughters.
Kochie (The Battle of the Choirs) versus 60 Minutes starts next Sunday, June 15.
Monday, June 02, 2008
All of a sudden… she ain’t what she use to be
The exodus of Australian cricketers continues as MacGill calls it a day
Stuart MacGill has continued the retirements of Australian cricketers announcing on the third day of the second test against the West Indies that he would be quitting the game at the conclusion of this test.
After finally seeing the back of the world’s greatest ever leg spinner, Shane Warne, MacGill struggled to appear from the shadows as age, dodgy knees and his wrist has finally given way.
MacGill’s grey hair showing the physical signs of wear and tare but his contribution to Australian cricket must not be overlooked.
If he hadn’t been in the same era as Warne, MacGill would have played over 100 tests and taken over 500 wickets at a competitive average.
Unfortunately for him, he bowled in an era where there was Warne but Stuart, we salute you. A developing television career awaits the wine specialist who has presented Uncorcked on the Lifestyle Channel but expect his media personality to evolve and grow within the lifestyle genre.
MacGill’s decision to quit the game comes only three months after the International retirements of Adam Gilchrist, Brad Hogg which were on top of the four retirements of the previous year; Glenn McGrath, Shane Warne, Justin Langer and Damien Martyn.
Add to this the experienced Darren Lehmann, Matthew Elliot, Jason Gillespe and Michael Kasprowicz have called it a day as the time has come for the new generation of Australian cricketers to step up to the plate.
Matthew Hayden’s future is also uncertain with Achilles issues that could see the batsmen forced into retirement.
With no standout spinner amongst the ranks, Australia will turn to the uncapped New South Welshman, Beau Casson who has struggled to hold a permanent spot in his state side or perhaps Australia may play four quicks.
Doug Bollinger and Ashley Noffke would not look out of place in the Baggy Green whilst Australian spin bowling stocks might be at there lowest level, the selectors may decide to pick another batsmen, David Hussey who can provide some right arm off-spinners.
Perhaps the selectors need to consider sharing the spin bowling duties amongst David Hussey, Michael Clarke and Andrew Symonds if there is not clear, specialist spinner deserving a spot in the Australian Test XI.
On the other hand, Casson will have the first opportunity to state his claim to the test side in a very new looking side that, heading into the third test will only feature six players from the side that won back the Ashes 18 months ago and by the time they head to England in 2009, the make up of the team could change again.
Australia face a tough summer against an aggressive South Africa who are on the rise and filled with a plethora of talent. They could dethrone the Australian side in what promises to be another competitive summer.
The Australian XI struggled to dominate against the Indians last Summer and were lucky to have won the series.
Spots are still up for grabs with only Ricky Ponting, Michael Clarke, Michael Hussey, Andrew Symonds, Brad Haddin, Brett Lee and Stuart Clark guaranteed their places in the test side.
The opening position is held by Hayden if fit and now Simon Katich will be putting pressure on Phil Jaques to retain his opening position.
Our bowling stocks as mentioned above are spinnerless while Mitchell Johnson is yet to cement his spot in the side as his bowling has been inconsistent.
The West Indies have provided a challenge and we have the Indians later this year in India followed by New Zealand and South Africa at home before heading to England in 2009 to defend the Ashes.
It’s a hard, difficult and challenging road ahead, the cricket landscape could be changing…
After finally seeing the back of the world’s greatest ever leg spinner, Shane Warne, MacGill struggled to appear from the shadows as age, dodgy knees and his wrist has finally given way.
MacGill’s grey hair showing the physical signs of wear and tare but his contribution to Australian cricket must not be overlooked.
If he hadn’t been in the same era as Warne, MacGill would have played over 100 tests and taken over 500 wickets at a competitive average.
Unfortunately for him, he bowled in an era where there was Warne but Stuart, we salute you. A developing television career awaits the wine specialist who has presented Uncorcked on the Lifestyle Channel but expect his media personality to evolve and grow within the lifestyle genre.
MacGill’s decision to quit the game comes only three months after the International retirements of Adam Gilchrist, Brad Hogg which were on top of the four retirements of the previous year; Glenn McGrath, Shane Warne, Justin Langer and Damien Martyn.
Add to this the experienced Darren Lehmann, Matthew Elliot, Jason Gillespe and Michael Kasprowicz have called it a day as the time has come for the new generation of Australian cricketers to step up to the plate.
Matthew Hayden’s future is also uncertain with Achilles issues that could see the batsmen forced into retirement.
With no standout spinner amongst the ranks, Australia will turn to the uncapped New South Welshman, Beau Casson who has struggled to hold a permanent spot in his state side or perhaps Australia may play four quicks.
Doug Bollinger and Ashley Noffke would not look out of place in the Baggy Green whilst Australian spin bowling stocks might be at there lowest level, the selectors may decide to pick another batsmen, David Hussey who can provide some right arm off-spinners.
Perhaps the selectors need to consider sharing the spin bowling duties amongst David Hussey, Michael Clarke and Andrew Symonds if there is not clear, specialist spinner deserving a spot in the Australian Test XI.
On the other hand, Casson will have the first opportunity to state his claim to the test side in a very new looking side that, heading into the third test will only feature six players from the side that won back the Ashes 18 months ago and by the time they head to England in 2009, the make up of the team could change again.
Australia face a tough summer against an aggressive South Africa who are on the rise and filled with a plethora of talent. They could dethrone the Australian side in what promises to be another competitive summer.
The Australian XI struggled to dominate against the Indians last Summer and were lucky to have won the series.
Spots are still up for grabs with only Ricky Ponting, Michael Clarke, Michael Hussey, Andrew Symonds, Brad Haddin, Brett Lee and Stuart Clark guaranteed their places in the test side.
The opening position is held by Hayden if fit and now Simon Katich will be putting pressure on Phil Jaques to retain his opening position.
Our bowling stocks as mentioned above are spinnerless while Mitchell Johnson is yet to cement his spot in the side as his bowling has been inconsistent.
The West Indies have provided a challenge and we have the Indians later this year in India followed by New Zealand and South Africa at home before heading to England in 2009 to defend the Ashes.
It’s a hard, difficult and challenging road ahead, the cricket landscape could be changing…
Sunday, June 01, 2008
One week separates Nine and Seven
Nine has won Week 14 by 0.2% with 60 Minutes taking the Number 1 most watched show. This trend will continue with another State of Origin contest in Week 16 which should see Nine take that week and this week, things would not appear to be changing too much.
The week came down to Saturday night with Seven screening The Rich List which is bombing in its new day and time slot capturing only 715 000 viewers. The previous season, in 2007 screened on Monday’s at 7:30PM consistently rating around the 1.2-1.4 million mark.
Are game show’s dead?
Million Dollar Wheel has not exactly shot out of the blocks with its first week figures looking like this:
Monday 26/5: 733 000
Tuesday 27/5: 607 000
Wednesday 28/5: 596 000
Thursday 29/5: 542 000
Friday 30/5: 607 000
Deal or No Deal on the other hand consistently beat Wheel with its figures:
Monday 26/5: 975 000
Tuesday 27/5: 904 000
Wednesday 28/5: 890 000
Thursday 29/5: 799 000
Friday 30/5: 815 000
Figures courtsey of MediaSpy
Million Dollar Wheel’s figures are not impressive or challengine Deal in it’s first week but the show must be given time to find an audience. I do think there are some flaws with the show that may prevent a successful reinvention.
The set looks tacky with bright neon lights and the debut show had an over zealous audience whose clapping and cheering was a distraction.
On the plus side, Tim Campbell is an energetic fresh faced host while Kelly Landry’s role is still being developed. Is a letter spinner actually needed, especially when the letters are not spun, rather ‘touched’?
In plain and simple terms one would imagine that Wheel should be more popular than Deal because it actually makes you think. Deal is just a game of luck, opening suitcases, basically gambling. Wheel encourages you to think about sayings, names, words, phrases and the like which makes for more viewer interaction.
The host’s role is important and like him or loathe him, Andrew O’Keefe is very professional. Witty, knowledgeable and funny – he is what gets Deal over the line but Campbell, given time will give O’Keefe a run for his money, as the entertainer.
Looking at the game show genre in further detail there seems to be a decline in the number of productions on air and in further development on commercial networks. At the moment, Ten does not have a game show on air, Nine is only screening Million Dollar Wheel of Fortune (plus old episodes of 1 v 100 in non Rugby League states), Seven is running Deal or No Deal and The Rich List.
Nine’s decision to currently ‘rest’ a two of its game show franchises, Millionaire and Temptation is further indication to the changing genre. The network is developing a new type of game show, Hole in the Wall, a popular Japanese concept that breaks from the traditional game shows that the networks have previously screened.
Thought provoking, challenging game shows are currently on the backburner with network’s and audiences preferring game shows that entertain or allow you to ‘tune out’.
The week came down to Saturday night with Seven screening The Rich List which is bombing in its new day and time slot capturing only 715 000 viewers. The previous season, in 2007 screened on Monday’s at 7:30PM consistently rating around the 1.2-1.4 million mark.
Are game show’s dead?
Million Dollar Wheel has not exactly shot out of the blocks with its first week figures looking like this:
Monday 26/5: 733 000
Tuesday 27/5: 607 000
Wednesday 28/5: 596 000
Thursday 29/5: 542 000
Friday 30/5: 607 000
Deal or No Deal on the other hand consistently beat Wheel with its figures:
Monday 26/5: 975 000
Tuesday 27/5: 904 000
Wednesday 28/5: 890 000
Thursday 29/5: 799 000
Friday 30/5: 815 000
Figures courtsey of MediaSpy
Million Dollar Wheel’s figures are not impressive or challengine Deal in it’s first week but the show must be given time to find an audience. I do think there are some flaws with the show that may prevent a successful reinvention.
The set looks tacky with bright neon lights and the debut show had an over zealous audience whose clapping and cheering was a distraction.
On the plus side, Tim Campbell is an energetic fresh faced host while Kelly Landry’s role is still being developed. Is a letter spinner actually needed, especially when the letters are not spun, rather ‘touched’?
In plain and simple terms one would imagine that Wheel should be more popular than Deal because it actually makes you think. Deal is just a game of luck, opening suitcases, basically gambling. Wheel encourages you to think about sayings, names, words, phrases and the like which makes for more viewer interaction.
The host’s role is important and like him or loathe him, Andrew O’Keefe is very professional. Witty, knowledgeable and funny – he is what gets Deal over the line but Campbell, given time will give O’Keefe a run for his money, as the entertainer.
Looking at the game show genre in further detail there seems to be a decline in the number of productions on air and in further development on commercial networks. At the moment, Ten does not have a game show on air, Nine is only screening Million Dollar Wheel of Fortune (plus old episodes of 1 v 100 in non Rugby League states), Seven is running Deal or No Deal and The Rich List.
Nine’s decision to currently ‘rest’ a two of its game show franchises, Millionaire and Temptation is further indication to the changing genre. The network is developing a new type of game show, Hole in the Wall, a popular Japanese concept that breaks from the traditional game shows that the networks have previously screened.
Thought provoking, challenging game shows are currently on the backburner with network’s and audiences preferring game shows that entertain or allow you to ‘tune out’.
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