Yesterday was the start of the 2024 season, and true to form most of the games where affected by precipitation, and quite a lot in some areas. The groundsmen and women will have been kept on their toes.
This would, in years gone by, have been the time of year to have my hair 're oranged', clean out the flasks and wash the blanky ( essential for cricket any time of year). However in the past few years my hair has gone from 'Ronald McDonald orange to Nordic white, and the flask collection has dwindled, good news though, blanky is still full of life!!!!
I was at work yesterday, and was tuning in 'on't wireless'. As commentary turned to Trent Bridge, it was wonderful to hear Dave Bracegirdle, I remember fondly his days in the box with our Cally, always fun. However it was one of his guests that really piqued my interest. Only the great Jack Russell.
Well I had to just down tools ( keyboard) and listen.
And for nearly an hour I was just enthralled by Jack and his love of the game. He really is a great ambassador for the sport.
In the blink of an eye it was over and he was on his way back to his easel to complete a painting of Trent Bridge.
What a fabulous way to break you into the new season.
Dave Bracegirdle also gave the great Harry Latchman a mention. I was lucky enough to spend a few days at Trent Bridge with Harry ( and Mike Harris) last season, and met up with Paul Johnson. I also sat next to Duncan Fearnley for lunch. My excitement at this, led Harry to comment, that Brad Pitt wouldn't have even come close. ( which is very true, but Duncan might have come second to Lenny Kravitz).
Sadly the news that Duncan passed away just before the start of the season, makes this memory extra special.
And so day 2 is here, its grey skies here in the North East of Blighty, but fingers crossed there is more cricket today.
Happy season one and all.
