|
Team at 2003 Sixes
Simon Foxcroft (36): An attorney
by calling, he has no problem upholding the low esteem in which his profession
is held. Simon passes for a wicket keeper, and what he lacks in skill
he compensates for by appealing often and vociferously. In his best season
(1993), he managed two stumpings (lifting the bails with his cap), 25
dropped catches, but only 79 byes. Although he is unlikely to improve
on these statistics, he remains eternally optimistic and consequently
has been appointed Captain on a strictly temporary basis.
Steve Heiberg (43): A struggling accountant not
withstanding exorbitant fees. He also struggles at cricket, being a very
slow bowler of no merit whatsoever. Rotund, but virile, shaving three
times a day. Active only at night, sleeps while fielding. A recent divorcee,
addicted to strong drink, Steve is keen to meet Thai ladies to share in
his many vices.
Terry Eksteen (61): A geriatric
with few redeeming features. Age has withered him, likewise alcohol abuse.
Nevertheless, he remains the only upright member of the party whose integrity
is beyond doubt. Notwithstanding these sterling characteristics, women
inexplicably find him unappetising. Plays cricket from memory only, but
is obvious management material.
Ted Fillary (59): Semi-retired
financial manipulator. Ted attended Oxford University (so he claims) and
boasts he once faced Wes Hall and Charlie Griffiths. The decline in his
cricket career can be traced to this encounter. Ted is now a very slow
bowler, specialising in the 'wrong-un' which most batsmen recognise as
the right one to lift over the fence. He also props up the tail and always
bats with a runner. Being a social animal by conviction makes the Far
East an irresistible attraction to Ted. Current marital status is uncertain,
and is likely to remain so.
Keith Patterson (45): Keith is
only on tour because the board of his retail company unanimously decided
he needed a break - preferably an indefinite one. As one of the younger
team members, he can be expected to play every game and in anticipation
has lost 20kgs cycling around his garden. Keith regards himself as a spin
bowler and frequently recalls his proudest figures of 2 for 93 off 5 overs
in a memorable under 13 match against the local girls' school. He doesn't
speak much about his batting prowess, which is probably just as well.
Keith surprisingly is still married which says a lot for his wife.
Ray Blatherwick (42): Currently
a leading pool salesman Ray is often out of his depth on the cricket field.
Two knee replacements and a liver condition have restricted his mobility
as an opening bat, resulting in numerous runouts. Comfortable threes become
dangerous ones or dismissals. Consequently, Ray has few friends among
his teammates but is popular with the opposition who buy him refreshments.
Unable to bowl or field with distinction Ray's social activities are confined
to drinking coke (doctor's orders) and thinking of the girls he could
catch if he were quicker. He believes that his chances will improve in
Thailand
Chris Verster (27) Young and enthusiastic. Chris
might not remain so when his new wife realizes that the Chiangmai honeymoon
includes the cricket sixes as a special wedding gift. Time will tell.
Chris is still a useful cricketer and has hit a few runs with his favourite
shot - the cow corner slog. As a teacher (what is the profession coming
to?) he is likely to learn a few things on tour. One being that the youngest
packs and carries thee kit, the other is helping the older members home
after a hard night in the pub.
|