Almanac Cricket – The all-time Australian men’s MCG XI: dodging the snorefest

It’s one thing to get the runs on the board on a flat deck, quite another when the game is in the balance. Dave Brown looks at the best men’s performances at the MCG over the years

Almanac Cricket History – Australia v New Zealand Tests at the MCG

Would you believe that Australia and New Zealand have played only three Tests at the MCG? True story! Ian Hauser looks back over the clashes at the ‘G’.

Australia v New Zealand: Second Test blog

The Boxing Day Test is upon us. Discussion of pitch, bouncers, and weather predominates. But what do the followers of the Almanac make of affairs?

A Superb Christmas Song

Christmas time! What better time than to bring out your favourite Christmas songs for their yearly airing. Mickey Randall writes about his favourites.

Chris Paul – the most underrated acquisition of the NBA off season

Mark Miller explores the background to the signing of elder statesman, injury prone Chris Paul to the Oklahoma City Thunder team in the NBA.

The Video James Corner: Good Game

In his final segment for 2019, James Bosco reviews some of the events, issues and happenings that have occurred in the world of esports during the year.

The local cricket rodeo – a short story on a batting collapse

Wickets have tumbled, a batting collapse, a cock-a-hoop fielding side, and you walk to the crease nerves a flutter to face the next ball. Sean Mortell sets the scenario emphatically.

Has the Big Bash lost its bash?

Grumpy Old Man Citrus Bob Utber is not happy! Why? The Big Bash of course! Check out his story.

Almanac Summer Solstice Fiction: When Little Yellow told Frankie of an Even Longer Day

Frankie the Fluff thought she knew that today was The Longest Day. Then she told her best friend, Little Yellow. [Some summer Almanac Fiction – Ed].

Santa, where the bloody hell are you?

Where’s Santa when you want him? Taking it easy of course! A Merry Christmas from Kate Birrell. [Fantastic Kate! Your art work is an integral part of the Footy Almanac. Many thanks from the Eds.]

Santa’s not so little helper, Superman and Friends and a Fitzroy win for the ages

The delicate question of how Santa manages to deliver all the toys to every child on Christmas Eve is one Shane Reid recently had to contend with. When asked by his daughter it provoked past memories for Shane at the same age.

Desert Island Food – Fuel for the body

We’ve fed the soul, we’ve fed the mind, now it’s time to feed the body. Nominate a meal miraculously produced for your indulgence marooned on a desert island.

The Tigers Almanac 2019 Launch at the North Fitzroy Arms Hotel

Some fabulous photos of Almanackers at the launch of The Tigers Almanac 2019.

Eulogy – My Grandfather

Anna Pavlou has written a wonderful and loving tribute to her grandfather, a man who showed by example how to live a full and meaningful life. [We’re thinking of your family Anna, Nick and Dermie (James), at this time. James tells me your Papou (his Uncle Europe) was remembered in fine fashion at yesterday’s funeral and wake. JTH]

Levi’s Duds – Years.

Swish has a quick yarn about jeans.

‘When did you fall in love with footy?’ – Alastair Clarkson’s speech at the Peter Crimmins Medal presentation

Courtesy of Tony Wilson’s ‘Speakola’ website, The Almanac presents Alistair Clarkson’s speech ‘When did you fall in love with footy?’ given at the Peter Crimmins Medal presentation in October.

Almanac Art: Kate Birrell’s original artwork for The Tigers Almanac 2019 is up for auction

Kate Birrell’s original artwork for The Tigers Almanac 2019 is up for auction. Bids close on Friday 20 December.

A Lifetime Passion For Motor Sport – by KB Hill

It sounds as if Jeff Whitten has oil running through his veins! KB Hill traces the motor-racing adventures of the Whitten of Wangaratta.

The Video James Corner: Growing pains

James Bosco presents his regular esports segment, this week he examines the issues surrounding maintaining a presence with mainstream representatives in the sport.

Is player movement to blame for NBA ratings collapse?

Mark Miller continues his regular segment on basketball and this week considers some of the issues surrounding the reduced TV ratings of the NBA.