What a surprise today. After lunch I wandered down the drive for an unknown cricket adventure. Coaching, nets practice or umpiring........I had no idea as I'd been working with Katrina all morning and not spoken to the Head of cricket. It turns out the 1sts have an annual event against some of England's County legends............. Lucky, I'm wearing my top cricket uniform.
Who are they?
One of the members described them as the 'poor mans MCC'...looking at the cars and the fact they play mid-week, I don't think they are too poor.
Found this on a website:
The primary objective of the 40 or XL Club is to take cricket to schools with high-class players being an example to youth both in standards of play and general behaviour. In earlier days former county and minor county players were the basis of most sides. Age is no obstacle to ability.
As a wandering club, the Forty Club does not own a ground, but enjoys a membership of around 4000 nationwide plus a growing number overseas.
I did not have a camera, but picture this:
71 year old opening bowler, off 12 paces bowling 6 on the trot, he told me it was 11 on Saturday. As I took his vest, after 3 balls of his 3rd, I asked if he was now warmed up. "Could never bowl fast until the sweat was running down ma back", he replied. Got copious out swing, good pace and I couldn't bear to raise my arms and wide him! By the 5th over he was hot and the comb -over was now a long sweaty mane down his back! Awesome stuff.
Many of these guys still play County cricket, over 60s.........Our boys sneaked in, in a great contest after a batting display which saw the 40 club play glances and cuts galore and turn any 3 into a definite two. Inspirational stuff.........and I have been invited to play as an overseas guest!
NB The flag in the picture is in readiness for the NZ take over at the Mansion. Our lounge leads off to the final 50 steps to the tower and flag pole. A win against the English should see it raised........will that be our last day here?
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