FAO: Sisters of Fate

What a day!!! I arrived in work to be greeted by an e-mail reminding us all that the work sports and social club indoor cricket sessions were starting today – which I’d completely forgotten about! Luckily enough I’d my gear in the boot and a pair of runners in the back of the car, so despite not being ideally prepared I was set to go.

I needn’t have worried much anyway, there were only 8 of us there and it was certainly very informal. Great fun too. We all bowled 3 overs a piece and batted about the same (depending on when we lost wickets). Me and one other guy were the only ones that actually play club cricket, the rest being beginners or just interested parties.

In some ways it was very interesting to see how I measured up against this class of player. This time last year I’d say that this was exactly the level I was at, so it was good to see that all the practice is actually making a difference, as I scored about 10 runs and only went for about 4 (with none being extras and plenty beating the bat and just missing the stumps).

Then later, it being Thursday, and Thursday being Netday – we’d another indoor cricket game instead of normal practice in order to get closer to the right frame of mind for the games this weekend. It wasn’t ideal for fielding, as everyone was forced to be too close to the bat, but it was good to get in some practice for the little things, like calling for runs; backing up the stumps; and getting the ball into the keepers gloves (instead of pinging every bloody ball at his ankles in some crazy attempt to run out a batsman that’s already home!!! >:| ).

I think I surprised a few people with my bowling. Two overs coming in off a short run-up, the line and length were nigh-on perfect until the last two balls (full-toss followed by overcompensated long hop :/ ). Again, there were plenty going through the batsman, one of which seamed into him from outside off to hit middle stump. If I can bowl like that for the 4ths I reckon this is going to be a good season :)

Batting could still use some work - the only reason I was never out was that my edges went into the gaps. Although I was told that it didn't look that bad - I'm doing the right things, and with practice I'll get better at them. My calling and backing up were OK at least - as was my actual running. I reckon I'll do OK at 10 or 11 if it's not too much a pressure situation. And if it is, I'll so my best and you never know - it might all come good.

There is now just over 24 hours until the first game and my place has been guaranteed. Of course, Murphy’s Law dictates that it’s going to be sunny until 13.15 tomorrow and then hailstones for about, oh ... however long it takes for the captains to call off the game – followed of course by more sunshine. Or the other team won’t be able to field a side – it being a much earlier start to the season that usual.

I am of course remaining optimistic – and the Sisters of Fate, when they read this blog (they’re big fans you know) will do their utmost to ensure that the game happens smoothly – with a win for us of course ;) (Though I’ll take a loss if it’s reasonably close, as it means I get to play cricket again)

I was also approached by the captains of the 1st and 2nd teams last night to see if I was available for a late call up on Sunday or Saturday evening – as they weren’t 100% sure of their numbers. So there’s a good chance of a 2nd game this weekend too :D