Pat Cummins - Love, Loss & Life

They say that by the time he retires, Pat Cummins could be one of Australia’s most successful cricket captains. And if 2023 is anything to go by, "they" might be right. Pat captained the team winning The ODI World Cup, The ICC World Test Championship and retaining The Ashes. And individually, he was not only named The ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year, but also signed a record-breaking contract to play in India in the IPL this year. So yeah, Pat wins a lot.

But this episode isn't just about cricket. Because as Pat talks about with Hugh, Ryan and Josh, he's lost a lot as well - especially in his personal life. Most notably, Pat tragically lost his mother Maria to cancer last year (2023), which he opens up about here, sharing how important life is outside of cricket - an approach that's trickled through to the entire team.

If you love cricket (maybe even as much as Hugh & Josh), or just want to hear how someone deals with struggles while at the top of their game, this is a special episode.

00:00 - Hugh's Vasectomy Saga
13:14 - Who is Pat Cummins
20:05 - Pat's Backyard Cricket
28:13 - Stoicism, Pat's Mum's Illness & Passing
37:37 - Not Letting Work Consume You
41:11 - Losing a Parent
42:31 - The Greatest Moment In Sport
47:26 - Death of Philip Hughes
52:16 - The Joy of Sporting Clubs
58:26 - How Do You Want To Fail
1:04:09 - The Courage To Not Know
1:09:12 - Fatherhood and Grief
1:16:48 - Pat's Positivity & Where It Comes From
1:19:44 - Reflecting on How We Want to Fail

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast...

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ZmSCzs...

Instagram: @theimperfectspodcast

The Imperfects is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.