Have we anything to declare? 

On journey to ground, my slide rule was out, and I was working out all permutations for result.  Was able to calculate that scoring at 3.5-4 runs an over we could potentially set a 220-250 target in 40-45 overs, which could set up an interesting match. 

However, I arrived at ground with Strauss just out and Billy the Kid following, with more significantly a run rate of less than 3.   Ace and Ed J were happy to block and it became immediately obvious a draw was only result.  Oh well, first day of summer weather and a chance to catch up with folks and enjoying the sun

 Hung, Drawn and Quartered 

During lunch interval after turgid 1st session, wanted to watch Chelski v Man Ure match . So I went in Middlesex room. Rugby was showing with no one watching and 2 attempts were made to change channels. The stewards swiftly change back rebuking individuals. There was a sign saying members have voted that football should not be shown on these screens. I don't remember ever voting for this absurd rule.   I bought my blue and pink quartered shirt. This I paraded down the catwalk at Turkey quarter.  This was swiftly removed as sun shone and the cross wind from Loverboy’s direction faded. 

Loyal Supporter 

Glam had a fan called Pip who sat with Turkey’s. He had been to all four days travelling from Cardiff each day. He also went to Oxford Uni game. He was a touch eccentric. I asked him to send my regards to Gladys. Yes we were struggling for humour today. 

The Contents of my lunch box? 

With little of interest to report from my lunch box and the cricket meandering on, I was looking for inspiration for my report. None of the Turkeys were prepared to do a streak and the players were reluctant to press on at any stage.

Is there a Cricket Match? 

After 3pm, a Jeff Stelling from Sky Sports oracle was updating us with footie scores from around the country.  Numerous of scores were significant in the promotion and relegation race and cheers were heard as Knocker nudged a meaningless single.

 Final word on cricket 

Given the criticism I received allowing day 1 report to go up without properly acknowledging the key performance, I will mention main events. Joyce was comfortable up to 86. He was “ caught “ at slip having appeared to hit the ball down.   When given out Ed seemed to stay there an age and gave the umpire a nasty look on his way out.  Wondering if he will be reported for dissent 

Knocker scored a composed 63 not out that sadly did not interest anyone.    With his first innings 96 and tidy performance behind stumps a good game for Nashy

Gloom and Doom 

With a draw and defeat against weaker teams and growing injury list, it looks like being a long tough season ahead.   

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