Tuesday, June 11, 2013

States Member Cricket Match 2013

Friday 7th June 2013 saw a remarkable event. A cricket match between the States politicians of Jersey and Guernsey. A memorable Muratti hosted by Investec and Jimmy Perchard (Umpire) who let us play in his back garden.

Jersey, officially the sunniest place in Britain, hosted the event. So far the annals had recorded the 5 previous wins to Guernsey. This time we were on home ground.

Under a bright sun, on a beautifully trimmed lush green field, the battle lines were drawn.

After brief greetings, handshakes and hugs, with bellies full of bacon baps and hot tea, both teams donned their whites and strode out from the clubhouse shade, to make their own kind of history.

Heads up, Guernsey won the coin toss and controversially opted to bat first. 114 runs all out.

Michel Le Troquer, belying his years, had bowled and caught a beautiful catch. The bowlers had done their bit now the batsmen were called to order. And so it went.

Two teams of youngsters from both Islands played a minor skirmish that Guernsey won with style, hoisting the cup aloft, and carrying it away with them.

Steve Luce and Geoff Southern, provided a master class in batting, and raised the bar and expectations accordingly.

Steve Pallet tucked himself in, becoming 'Man of the Match", whilst Alan Maclean and Lyndon Farnham proved it's not the winning that counts.

Finally Ian Le Marquand buckled down and grew in confidence and style as the afternoon wore on. 

Finally with only six batsmen called to the crease the sound of leather on willow ceased and the prize was claimed. Victory for Jersey. A thoroughly lovely day.  

I hope these photo's capture the day.