Another season

I really believe that Cricket is like no other sport. It is infuriating but inspiring, depressing but uplifting, in fact totally dominated by ups and downs

Even before you get the smell of a freshly mown wicket in your nostrils and step on to the field of play in that first match your mind has filled with wild imaginings

 Will you get that magic ton?  Perhaps a 10-wicket haul?  A magic leg side stumping? A catch to match anything the IPL serves up? Whatever your discipline its all up for grabs!

Before that, you need to take look at the remains of your unwashed kit and, this means a new pleasure awaits. Yes- you need new clothing and kit. A new bat -gosh that dear? Lovely leather batting gloves with a smart blue piping – yes please. Oh, of course, the flannels, shirt and sweater(s) to match the piping.  Put it on the credit card and tell her later – yes that’s the way to go!!

For me such thoughts are but distant memories but to all embarking on a new season – Good luck!!

US Masters

Well I'm glad its over for Another year but it does make compulsive viewing and the course is something else

                       

For McIlroy a chance of the grand slam gone with a 4th round in which he just lost it. I don't know anything about the technicalities of golf but his mental ability to concentrate appeared to disappear and he suddenly started to rush his shots.

However these fine sportspeople  amaze me with their ability to drive over 300 yds, hit an iron around 220, and then play delicate putts. The practice and dedication  put in to achieve this can only be imagined and admired.

Although they tell me that the golf and cricket swings do not help each other I am certain that the mental toughness and practice regimes of these internationals is something that cricketers should aspire to.