Category: 2006

Vienna 2006
Summary

Kiwi – 7.00am All Black dawn raid – Chunder recipient – met Emalie – said goodbye to Emalie (what a “women”) – Mandatory Sunday afternoon tour vanish
Des – “But, we’ve got a return ticket” – Restless sleeper – Then slept better knowing he’d found those 2 lost runs – Enjoyed Bermuda Triangle
Brendan – Met him in a Gay Bar – Raincoats – Lance Cairns
Ryan – Deja Vu (Christie) – Way out of line for 4 hrs and 3 mins out of the 4 hr and 12 min train trip back – Built up “Hooters” to no avail – Rip van Winkel
Palfers – Raybands – Tasmanian Wombat – Hey, Teacher, leave those kids alone…
Finchy – Happens on tour, stays on tour, right lads?! – met the “Kaiser” – Tour debutante (got a taste for it)
Glig – Solo “Empire” – did wonders for Russian/Aust relations – Sideshow bob – Big, Bigger, Biggest
Phil – Lord Luccum – Lovin it at hostel bar – Eagle eye
Van Daddy – Crowd killer – Drank too much at the BBQ, let himself down in front of loved ones – Was on track for 150 when he picked out the one boy on the leg side fence
Matt Daddy – Tummy shiner – Took a catch it/wear it screamer at fly slip – Hankies
Brydon (Cousin of..) – claimed to be a Kiwi (Jury out..) – redemption in the field – Quiet first tour
Greg – Questionable choice of shirt (Killing the Dragon) – Hand buckets – Tired to hit his first ball into the Danube, when specifically told to do the opposite

– wakening on Saturday morning so pissed I was seeing double when I looked across to your bed
– having Darren Gough take us on a bike tour in Wachau
– Gligs face in the bar when he saw “big, bigger and Gligorich style”
– Kiwi`s face when he saw Amalie
– Kiwi`s face when she told him she had a boyfriend in Sweden
– whingeing Aussies on the bike tour
– impressing the Viennese with the club stats for an hour or so
– visiting bars where they sell genuine Budweiser from Budvar.
– glig leading us into a gay bar
– the unforgettable visit to Hooters
– embarassment as Finch and Saling shouted and whistled out of the 1516 brewery window at ladies

– Ryan and his eagerness to get home to do the “really hot” yankie bird, and her disappointment at not seeing him in the bar the following night

– Top organisation from the Kiwi, yet Amalie didn’t reward him for his efforts

– Glig managing to pull 2 cuties in the centre of Wien on Friday night, only to blow it by saying they looked 13!

– Wayne’s pull shot for 50 which has been immortalised by Greg forever

– Glig telling the Russian waitress to f**k off after dinner on Friday

– The way in which the game was played (almost forgot we were there for a cricket match!)

– Vodka Redbull, mmmmmm

Not a summary
Like with many previous MCC Tours, the long over-due return to Wien began in earnest at Munich’s Central Station. All the signs were good with tour virgin Finch even turning up on time. The party swelled to what must be a record 16-strong with families Parry & Van D ensuring high numbers. Only Greg & Andrea opting for autobahn over deutsche bahn (someone had to lug the kit bag across the alps!)

With everyone safely on board and Joshua starting to get high on gummi-bears (nice one Ryan!) Munich fast became a distant memory. Somewhere, from beyond the grave, Falco could be heard warming up… Vienna was indeed calling!
The beer was flowing and Glig had done an early doors runner to the buffet car having brought too little booze (has he not learned form experience???), everyone seemed to be enjoying the somewhat cramped but comfy 6-seater cars. Kiwi had impressed early doors with his management, but many (including Kiwi himself) were sure this would not last.

Josh was not the only one as high as a kite as the border fast approached. It seems Ryan had supplied Van D junior with so many sweets to take the heat off of him. Glig, declaring that anyone who travels on a train with him will be searched, panicked Ryan into taking certain substances in order to destroy the evidence. Mixed well with the beer, eh Ryan?

Arguably, the highlight of the journey was making the acquaintance of ex-junkie “Ralph” (real name unknown, all will be clear as you read on). After Linz the train filled up beyond capacity so many travellers were left to sit in the aisles whilst those of us who were fortunate enough to have reserved seats (thanks again Kiwi, best 2,50€ ever spent) could sit (or in Ryan’s case recover) in comfort. Ralph parked himself outside of our cabin next to a group of Italians who were armed with enough beer to keep even Brendan quiet (well, it would have if they’d have shared with him – not a happy bunny). As receptive as our boys are Kiwi, Palfers, Glig and Brendan started chatting to the man of no known name and he in turn parked himself in a vacant chair in the carriage. Your truly was not an eye witness to what happened next, but by all accounts, Ralph was so Brahms and List that he put his cig out in his beer and then took a swig, mmmm, nice! As he registered what he’d done, he proceeded to spit out the said cig end and the beer all over Kiwi. Suddenly, there were a lot of vacant seats in the compartment.

If anyone’s wondering what was going on in the other two carriages its hard to say. Wayne was fairly quiet in his as he was out numbered by the opposite sex, 4-1 as Joshua was being entertained by Ryan (guess they were on the same wavelength) and two non-German, non-English, non-any known language to us speaking girls had snaffled the two free seats. In the middle compartment Des, Phil & familie Parry were simply enjoying one another’s company.
Upon arrival at Wien Westbahnhof only Ryan was showing signs of any fatigue. Even Joshua had come down from his sugar-rush and the party of 16 split into 3 groups – half of which headed for the world renowned Wombats Hostel. Wien had recently seen a larger, more modern Wombat spring up just an Alex Gale’s throw from the station. The 8 hostellers marched on by, another 10 minutes, to the original and certainly I’d say best Wombats Hostel where once again Kiwi showed why he should be made club tour president. 2 en-suite rooms with 2 bunk beds was just what the doctor (not you Parry) ordered.

A quick shower and it was down to the bar to check out the local brew and of course the not so local delicacies, which had descended on Wombats from all over the globe. It looked slim pickins on the first night, but Ryan thought it was a case of déjà vu and could not believe his luck/misfortune* (*delete as applicable) when who should he see in the bar, but Christie – his fellow American and conquest of only a few nights before. See Ryan, this is why you talk to women as well as the other stuff!!! It didn’t matter as Sailing had promised us Hooters and even a guaranteed rematch could not deter him, so off we went in search of the world famous “restaurant”.

A quick taxi ride downtown and there we were… standing outside of the world famous, er, well, not Hooters. Apparently, it had moved almost overnight to another part of town, so the 8 hungry soles were forced to make do with regular Austrian Fayre in the 1516 Brewery. Ryan was soon chomping at the bit, wanting to cut the night short and get back to his personal hooters girl. He (and Finch) started wolf whistling out of the window at a hen party across the road. It really was time to liven the night up. The food came, so did the wine. It was tested, discussed (MCC wine connoisseur Brendan on the scene) & sent back for being corked. As if that didn’t piss off our Russian waitress enough, I am sure Glig doing his bit for Ozzie-Rusky relations by telling her to f**k off when the bill came, sealed it!

For those of you thinking this is fast turning into the Ryan Sailing show you will be pleased to know that was him for the night. Never seen anyone so eager to get back to a hostel! Palfers joined our hero and the remaining 6 went in search of the Bermuda Triangle…

The hip and happening part of Vienna around Schwedenplz was, as you’d expect heaving on a Friday night. Once Des and Phil had found a perch from where they could see Wien’s talent in all its glory the vodka redbull’s started flowing. Glig, seeing his mission in life was to talk to ever single “Wienerin”, seemed to have cracked onto a rather fine pair and with wing-man Brendan on hand to take the bullet (though neither could be described as anything short of hot) things looked promising. With Puds, Finch, Kiwi and the Richter moving in to see more of the boys in action, Glig managed to blow it in the blink of an eye. “How old are you…? 13”. If looks could kill, Glig’s number would have been up. They could not exit fast enough. As if things could not get any worse, the troops were lead into a gay bar by either Glig or the Richter himself (depending which source you believe).

Glig did redeem himself somewhat when, outside, he managed to get two girls play a little tonsil tennis with each other, as Brendan and Finchie looking on in amazement.

With one more bar visited and several litres of vodka Redbull consumed in the company of a few ladies from the Neuperlach area of Munich, the troops headed off knowing that the game was only around the corner and some serious shuteye was needed. Well, all knew that except Glig who went solo in Wien til the wee hours…

What felt like minutes after heads hit pillows, Kiwi instigated the dawn raid down to the Irish pub to see NZ v Aus in the tri-nations. Palfers, Ryan, Brendan were his wingmen. I guess Ryan (being a non Ozzie/Kiwi) went along simply to escape his bed and Christie’s clutches. Surprisingly, after he left she didn’t feel like staying with Des and Puds and exited too.
One really could not have wished for a nicer day as the late summer sun beamed down on the luscious green pitch that was home to Vienna Cricket Club. From the minute we were greeted by the Richter’s opposite number, Siv, to the time we staggered away from the after match bbq and booze up, everything went perfectly. The opposition were even impressed by the MCC historical stats!

Toss was duly won by captain Parry (could teach Mark a thing or two, eh?) and even with all the team turning up well before start, batting was the only thing on the Doctors mind.

The scorecard can tell you the story of the game, but if you want to see Wayne’s superb 50 summed up in more than words (crowd killer was the best we could come up with), take a look at Greg’s homepage. One awesome pull shot for 6 brought up the half-century in style. He was looking untroubled until, in his 60s, he found the lone fielder sweeping cow corner.

Everyone chipped in with runs, wickets or catches in what was a true team performance. Runner up to Wayne in shot of the match went to Greg for his attempt to pull the first ball he faced into the Danube after being told to play himself in. Still, at least his choice of pre-match shirt (“Killing the Dragon”) will ensure there will be more to remember from Holmes that day (I bet there is no photo of that on your webpage!)

A tummy shiner and a screaming catch at fly slip for Dr Parry; Juggling from Brydon (have we mentioned the other tour debutant yet?); Glig’s subdued celebration at running 20 metres to hang onto a bute at fine-leg; Brendan thinking he was Lance Cairns with an array of 4’s & 6’s at the end of the innings, and Ryan being run out for a duck on his last tour (who would do a thing like that to you, Ryan?) were just some of the many highlights of a game which summed up the day as a whole. It’s a shame that such spirit and fair play is rarely witnessed in Munich cricket.

The feast of a BBQ meant that everyone went away happy and, with the amount of alcohol provided by our hosts, Wayne could let his hair and family down with the amount of beer consumed.
For most of us it seemed like a week since we’d had a good nights sleep. With that in mind Ryan decided to “have a little snooze” which took him right through to checkout time on the Sunday. The rest of the hostellers decided that the pyjama party in the bar was as far as they’d get tonight. It turned out to be a corker of a night, especially for Des as not only had he found the 2 missing runs (and was therefore able to sleep that night) but was content at the bar having found out they had genuine Budweiser from Budvar. Puds joined him and with his eagle eye scouring the talent, he was his usual quiet happy self.

Even though the pyjama party was quite full, there was a distinct lack of talent for our tired heroes. Enter Emalie & the “Kaiser”… The minute the 2 Swedish beauties entered it was clear that Kiwi’s and Finchie’s night would not be an ordinary one. I can still hear Kiwi’s words echoing through the halls of Wombats… “Emalie, what a woman”. His world came crashing down at the moment he found out she had a bloke back in Sverige and was happy with him. All that groundwork and nothing more than an email address to show for it. Oh well, there is always next years tours! As for Finch, well, we all know golden rule #1… What goes on tour stays on tour (right, Ryan?)

Compared to what had gone on prior, Sunday was pretty uneventful, for those who didn’t go on the wine tour at least. I hear that the highlight there was not the amount of wine consumed in the 7-hour trip, but that fact that Darren Gough was the tour leader.

We bode farewell to Wombat’s (no doubt will be the preferred choice for Wien 07) and the party split into smaller groups. Phil “Lord Lucan” Puddicombe did his usual early morning disappearing act and was not seen again until it was time to board the train.

In keeping with tradition, Kiwi also slipped away from the pack, no doubt to hook up with some eastern European honey. Seems to be his trademark on tour by all accounts.
Amazingly, all 16 of the train tour party converged on Wien Westbahnhof in good time and the return home to Bayern began. With a change in Salzburg the first part of the journey saw Glig disappear to the bar, pull a bird, snog her in full view of the other patrons and only reappear as we pulled into Salzburg. Ryan and Brendan shared their wine samples with the rest and they were soon crying into their empty bottles and Ryan went to join Glig in the buffet car.

Josh seemed to have the most energy (had Ryan given him more gummi-bears?) while most of the party tried to get some sleep for the first time all weekend. A somewhat subdued end to the weekend, but Ryan managed to annoy most passengers for all bar about 5 minutes of the journey. He certainly won’t be forgotten easily and his presence on the 2007 tours will be sorely missed!

If any of you are still awake, I have to say that it’s by far the best tour I have ever been on and I hope it was worth the 5 week wait for the report. Here’s to a successful 2007-touring season. I cannot wait! Your no-longer tour virgin, Ian Finch

Match Details MCC vs LEAGUE MICC 13 MAY (HOME)

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
VD ct 12
LOVELL b 15
PALFREY b 20
ASIM ct 53
SEMBIAN lbw 27
SEAR ct 2
MCINTOSH * 21
ALGAR ro 0
PRAMOD ro 1
MCGREE * 11
GLIG dnb
TOTAL 40 Overs 185 for 9

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
SEAR 8 0 22 2
GLIG 8 1 22 1
PRAMOD 8 3 27 5
MCGREE 7 0 29 0
MCINTOSH 7.1 0 34 2
ALGAR 1 0 9 0

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won opening 2006 league game in a good contest by 37 runs.

Comments on the Match

MCC opened their 2006 league campaign with a good home win versus old rivals Munich International. Lovell hasnt won a toss since 2003 so it was no real surprise when he lost once more to the more experienced rival skipper Nath. Being asked to bat was still something of a surprise despite a few looming weather worries. Lovell and Van Damage opened up like the old days for the MCC in perfect batting conditions. The new ball did a bit early but all the top three including Palfrey got themselves in but failed to go on. Asim and Sembi steadied the ship with some good running between the wickets and took the score to 87-3 at the 20over break. After the interval a possible moment of controversy with Sembi run out (without prior warning) by the bowler in his follow thru. He was thankfully called back in the spirit of the game. Sembi finally perished lbw for 27 prompting the annual MCC pack of cards collapse. Sear skied one and then Asim who had cruised effortlessly to 53, holed out on the fence after blazing one to deep midoff. There then quickly followed two unseemly run outs of Algar and Pramod and the innings was in danger of unravelling. VC Mcgree then joined Jamaica’s Mikey Mcintosh as MCC looked to bat out the overs and regroup. This was done with aplomb with some good batting. Mikey finished on an unbeaten 21 and his partner a very quiet 11 as the home side took tea on 185 off their allocation. It possibly should have been more but beggars cant be…. A quiet opening spell but then the fireworks soon started. Glig took a fine catch off Sear to break the opening partnership at deep third man off a skier. Glig slowly settled into his nagging line and length and broke the other opener’s morale – snaffled into Lovells waterbed at 1st slip. The visitors slowly took a time out to rebuild the innings and moved to 76-2 at the 20over break still very much in the game with wickets in hand. Pramod then turned the game in MCC’s favour with a triple wicket over shortly after the interval. Another skier was grabbed by Glig this time at short fine leg despite a massive call from wk Asim. Lovell then took another nice grab at slip to remove Malik 2nd ball. The classic over was complete with Pramod completely bamboozling the left hander and bowling him behind his legs. Shortly after Asim took a nice wicketkeepers catch standing up to Pramod. At 91-6 the away sides’s innings was in tatters. Inder tried to regroup with some lusty blows to cow corner but found no real support. Good late spells by Sear and Mcintosh, ably supported by the Quiet Man meant that the boundaries completely dried up and it became too much of an ask for MICC. The final blow was delivered by Mikey who completed an elementary caught and bowled by running 40 yards to deep cover to take the catch off his own bowling. The evening was completed with a few celebratory ales in the moonlight of the Chinese Tower.

MCC Man of The Match

PRAMOD 5-27 NEVER STOPPED THINKING

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Match Details MCC vs CCB MAY 20 in English Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
PALFREY ct 43
LOVELL * 49
ASIM ct 0
APPAVU lbw 0
SEAR ct 1
PRAMOD lbw 5
MCINTOSH lbw 0
PARRY ct 26
MCGREE ro 15
SCOTT ct 0
GLIGOROV lbw 0
TOTAL 37.5 Overs 196 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W

Summary of Match Result

NO RESULT MATCH ABANDONED PERSISTENT PROLONGED P!SSIN POST TEA RAIN

Comments on the Match

After losing the toss MCC were kindly invited to take first use of the pitch in very overcast and muggy conditions. The new ball did a bit early but the opposition seamers were unable to consistently control their line and gave away too many extras. Ultimately sundries were to prove MCC most prolific scorer. Lovell and Palfrey made hay while this prolifigacy lasted and cruised to 90 odd after just 13 overs. When Palfers departed for 43 (hitting a pie to deep square’s throat) the wheels came off the MCC drinks buggy. Asim, Sembian and Dan all soon followed as the opposition got on a bit of a roll. Pramod hung around for a bit before he was sent packing LBW to be very sharply joined by Waldroi Mcintosh in the LBW hatch. At the 20 over interval MCC were 119-6 with work to do. Dr Parry then joined the captain who had by this stage decided to shut up shop and go into Boycott/Tavare mould. At the other end Matt scored freely and departed when well set for a brisque 26. VC Quiet steadied the rocking MCC ship further with a nice 15 before being run out to a direct hit. And then a rather tame to the MCC innings with bowlers Scott and Glig failing to trouble the scorers. MCC had failed to bat out the overs ending up with 196. A strange day at the office with Lovell carrying his bat for 49 only to be outdone by extras on 51. Tea was then taken (courtesy of Mcgree) and then the rain slowly started. The only bright spots were Tony’s water melon and Sembians shades. Come 4.30pm it had become persistent and the game was called off with the opposition innings not started. Pods.

MCC Man of The Match

Lovell

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Match Details MCC vs CCB SATURDAY JUNE 4 in English Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
PALFREY B 45
LOVELL B 0
SEMBIAN CT 17
MIKEY B 2
ANGUS LBW 12
MITCHAM CT 5
PRAMOD LBW 6
BLADES LBW 0
DUNNE B 1
SOBEK NO 2
GLIGOROV CT 0
TOTAL 34ish Overs 115 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
GLIGOROV 8 0 34 2
BLADES 8 2 9 2
MIKEY 8 3 16 1
PRAMOD 7 2 15 3
SEMBIAN 4 0 13 0
PALFREY 2 0 8 0
DUNNE 0.3 0 0 1

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won a thrilla in the hirschanga by 15 runs.

Comments on the Match

Lovell worm rooter own goal. 0 Palfrey swing. I feel a disturbance in the wood, young skywalker. Appavu top edge fence. McIntosh unfortunate boot deflection. Furlonger that’s plumb, boss. Mitcham gloveio poppovic, walkage. Acharya that really was plumb, boss. Blades golly gosh that’s plumb as well, boss. Dunne peach. Sobek cover drive, apparently. Stats. Glig caught behind. CCB sent the MCC Fringe in to bat on Saturday. A couple of hours later, when we were all out for 115, it was looking like a pretty good decision. Mark Palfrey saved the innings with yet another impressive knock before an impolite swinging delivery rearranged his furniture without asking when he was on 45. Talented Sembian scored a sneaky 17 and holed out in the deep before anyone realised he had arrived at the crease. Palfrey’s only other support came in the form of league debutant Angus Furlonger: an excellent English fellow with a penchant for cans. The finger has not been kind to Lamby this year, and it was thus that he departed, following a somewhat harsh decision from the umpire and after having worked the ball skilfully for 12. The regular readership probably won’t be all too surprised to hear that, after being 98-4 from the first 20 overs, we then collapsed. Like a big collapsing thing. CCB bowled reasonably well (the anticipated shower of wides was not forthcoming) and they were no doubt pleased to have restricted us to a total that could only be described as small. Plop. Then we all had a sandwich. A least I think everyone had one. Mine was with cheese and cucumber. It was magnificent. Having kicked on for an early blob, Captain of Positive Thinking Mark Lovell had spent most of his afternoon pottering around the boundary rope listing to New Order on my headphones. It was now left to him to rally the troops in a way that only he can. It was a quiet MCC dressing room and the skipper offered some optimistic and encouraging words, urging the bowlers to minimise wides and for a young fielding team, lacking in star performers, to ‘show some character’ in ushering the shop steward in early against a batting side with more potential to fold than a Pennymarkt ironing board. Tony Blades is back, sports fans. Though tactfully left unspoken at half time, it was clear to all concerned that early carnage was the only thing that could get MCC back into the game. This was dually provided in the form of two undeniable LBW’s from Blades and a textbook destumpification by the clinical Jason Gligarov that ripped the dangerous CCB top order apart. Tony finished with figures of 2-9 from his 8 overs in a display of tightness not experienced since [sentence truncated for legal reasons]. An obvious stumping would have furnished Bladesy with a third, were it not for the diminutive, betracksuitpanted chap at square leg who seemed at a loss as to why he was being screamed at by two fired-up Queenslanders. Pramod, Mikey and Sembian all bowled tightly to keep the pressure on, and a couple more wickets saw the visitors reeling at 40-5 after their first 20 overs. CCB regrouped after the break however, and grafted their way slowly but surely towards the meagre total. Wickets from a composed and relentless Pramod and an unplayable yorker from Mikey kept the MCC in front, despite a couple of loose deliveries and dropped catches which added pressure and lined up a tense finish. Knowing that 10 wickets were the only remedy for the MCC batting disaster, Lovelli was forced to risk the introduction of new bowlers late in proceedings. Mark Palfrey showed his experience with a miserly two over spell at the death, a performance rivalled only by his batting and his teas. Still no wicket though. Just as the tension had reached breaking point, Brendan Dunne got hold of the red for the first time. With the opposition 8 down and only a handful of runs to get, big Clive’s first ball resulted in a mix-up during which both batsmen decided it might be fun to run in the same direction. Call me old fashioned, but this tactic is almost never advisable in a pressure situation. Luke Sobek was left with absolutely no alternative but to hurl the pill at the non-strikers end from his position at deep mid off, a distance of at least 400 metres. He made no mistake, and the CCB’s top scorer was on his way back to the dugout. Two balls later and a Dunne slower ball caught the leading edge and disappeared into the low lying cloud cover: to height of at least 400 metres. Sir Garfy Sobek sauntered his way over to the scene, steadied himself under the swirling projectile and, about two or three minutes later, topped off a flawless day in the field by swallowing a superb, match-winning catch. ‘Ave it. A cracking result on a day when the MCC proved its spirit, depth and character. A day on which league hopes were kept alive through hard work, concentration and coolness under pressure. A day on which I had a very tasty sandwich, and Dunny proved that he could “close it”. A day that saw Sobers head butt Brendan without really meaning to (or so he says) in the post-match celebration. All this topped of by a night that no one can remember. Brilliant. Stay tuned cricket freaks, 2006 is just getting started.

MCC Man of The Match

Palfrey could possibly deserve it after scoring 40pc of a paltry ohne palfrey mcc is facked boss total so we will give to Bunty Blades who’s back in a guest starring role as the 2006 Fletcher Christian. Great bowling when we needed it most.

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Match Details MCC vs SSC SAT MAY 27 in Eng Garden

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
NO ONE HAD THE CHANCE BAT TO
DUE TO P!SSPOOR FACT IN
VERY POOR METEOROLIGICAL PODS
OVERHEAD MOIST
INCLEMENT FRANKLY AND
UNPLEASANT THE FOR
TIME OF YEAR
CONDITIONS RSP
MATCH ABANDONED DESPITE PODS
WINNING TOSS FACK RAVI
NICE TEAS SCOTT FROM
TOTAL PODS Overs NIX for NADA

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
GLIGOROV 7 0 20 3
SCOTT 6 0 23 0
GALE 5 0 22 0
PRAMOD 8 1 23 1
BLADES 6 0 31 2
MCINTOSH 8 1 20 2

Summary of Match Result

Match abandoned. Moist. Pods. RSP.

Comments on the Match

Deja vu my friends. Just a week on from the CCB p1ssdown washout at the Hirschanger the fates provided similar fare against SSC Sri Lankans – only this time MCC had the opportunity to have a twirl of the arm. Lovell won the toss and perhaps swayed by the particularly w@nk 4cast decided to have a pop at the SSC top order with the new ball. MCC bowled well in spells but with way too many leg side wides, especially from the new ball bowlers. Despite spraying it around a tad Glig ripped the guts out of the top order with 3 sticks. Mikey and Pramod bowled miserly before Blades on his comeback league game kept things sewn up at the death. SSC finishing with 140 off their allocation of 40overs. A good fielding performance was capped by Bob Mitcham behind the stumps who snaffled 3 catches and a swift stumpage. Quality keeping indeed. Zone. Tea then followed and the MCC openers Lovell and VD even had the temerity to get padded up for the afray. However their party was shat on from a mediocre height as the rain steadily increased in tempo. Even reknowned rainmongers Waldroi and Scott had to admit defeat and indeed that in the end it was probably wise to call the whole thing off and do it again at a theatre of cricket sometime soon. Match abandoned.RSP. PODS.

MCC Man of The Match

Glig, gimp, tatts, arc. best ever league returnage. much improvage. well bowling despite not being able to see through his excessive melbournian locks. wheres the gyppo gillespie pat rafter headband?

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Match Details MCC vs MICC CUP SAT JUNE 17

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
VD lbw allege 26
LOVELL played on 9
PALFREY top edge 33
ASIM cow 4
SEMBIAN cow 8
MIKEY ct fence 38
BOB MITCHAM lbw 5
BLADES fly slip 5
PRAMOD * 7
SCOTT flail 8
GLIG unlucky 3
TOTAL 39.3 Overs 161 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Scott 8 2 27 4
Glig 8 1 33 0
Pramod 8 2 18 2
Blades 3 0 16 0
Palfrey 1 0 3 0
Mikey 5 0 25 0
Asim 6.1 0 37 3

Summary of Match Result

MCC LOST CUP OPENER BY FOUR RUNS

Comments on the Match

MCC lost a tempestuous round robin cup match v MIC by a paltry four runs on Saturday. In scorching hot conditions Lovell surprisingly lost the toss and MCC were invited to have a graze in the field. Scott took a wkt in his first over with Bob Mitcham taking a neat catch to remove the opener for a blob. The other opener blazed away in manic fashion for about 20mins before deciding he had enough for the moment and wanted to go off for a lie down in the shade. This duly occured but not until the usual pointless bickering and gesturing. It was about this time that the captain knew he it was going to be a cunt of a day. There then followed a period of MCC domination with Scott running thru the top order on his way to four wkts in a fine display of Geordiesque fast bowling. Glig also bowled steadily until being undone on a 7 ball over. MCC bowled no wides in the first twenty overs – a bit of a turnaround from previous affairs. MCC contained the visitors to 70-4 at the break. Waleed was dropped soon after the break off Blades which was probably the turning point in the game. Thereafter he blazed away to 75 well made runs supported by the now fit and well opener. Pramod removed the cowboy caught by Lovell at slip and was miserly with 2-18 off his 8 overs. Asim chipped in with 3 late wickets as MIC were bowled out for 165 in the 40th over. Another couple of catches for wk Mitcham in a tidy display – although he does have to work on appealing and communication skills when the gumshield is in place. A spicy curry tea courtesy Pramoder and then VD and Lovell strode to the wkt. Storm clouds began to gather especially with the legside trap set and with a minimum of 2 balls per over flying way down leg side the ‘neutral’ umpire decided flagrantly applying the wide rule so vigorously enforced so far this season. Nonetheless MCC batted on unmoved and reached 35 for no loss when the rain came. A 20minute break ensued and the game was turned on its head when VD was adjudged lbw from around the wicket with the ball slanting down leg. Not nice. He did a nice impersonation of Chris Broad on his way back to the hatch. Lovell soon followed playing on (again). Asim holed out to deep cow as MCC continued to falter but were well up with the run rate. At the 20over break Sembian was there with the Palfreyman with MCC 81-3 and well in it. The usual collapse after the break of course with Palfrey top edging and Sembian holing out to deep cow. Bob and Mikey settled things down and managed to regroup before Bob was adjudged lbw. Mikey then decided to chance his arm as MCC slipped behind the run rate. It was Collis King at his best. Walders made 38 before being juggled successfully on the fence. Blades hit a four before finding fly slip. Scott hit a few lusty blows before he was bowled after one too many haymakers. This left Pramod and Glig as the last wkt partnership with 13 to win and about 3 overs to go. They both nudged well to bring it down to just 4 to win. Glig then smashed one unfortunately straight to deep mid off. Another yard either side and the game was ours. It wasnt meant to be. This leaves MCC to play Pak Orient in a must win game to stay in the cup. Thanks to Matt for scoring.

MCC Man of The Match

PAUL SCOTT FOUND HIS LINE DESPITE ONLY ONE JUMPER

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Match Details MCC vs

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
TOTAL Overs for

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W

Summary of Match Result

Comments on the Match

MCC Man of The Match

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Match Details MCC vs PAK ORIENT CC 9 JULY HASBEENBURGLED

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
VD ro 17
LOVELL ct 11
SEMBIAN ro 11
ASIM ct 0
WALDROI ct 0
MCGREE ct 4
PRAMOD b 3
BLADES no 7
MITCHAM b 2
PRYKE b 2
SCOTT ct 0
TOTAL 26.3 Overs 89 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
SCOTT 7 2 24 1
MCGREE 8 0 30 4
PRAMOD 1 0 19 0
WALDROI 2.4 1 9 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC LOST A LOW SCORING MATCH MATCH BY FOUR WKTS.

Comments on the Match

Thinking that a score of over 200 was the benchmark Lovell won a toss and decided to bat in sultry Lahore conditions. Mcc got off to a bright start with VD and Lovell coping with the variable bounce adding 30odd before MCC run machine VD was sadly run out. At 48-1 off 7 overs Lovell had regrouped with Sembian at the other end before the skipper was adjudged caught at short cover much to his surprise. A hat trick by Mr Butt then ensued of all too bizarre proportions with Asim and Mikey both spooning catches. Sembian was then run out. Mcgree spooned another one to Mansoor at cover who by this time could hardly contain his glee. Pramod was bowled by a worm burner. Bob and Sutcliffe were castled farming before Scott completed the golden trio to round off a fantastic batting display. Mcc all out for 89 in 26.3overs with BBBlades unbeaten on seven. There was nothing much to play for but pride after the curry, poppadoms and singh lager at half time. Scott and Mcgree both bowled brilliantly and reduced the league champions to 50-5 before some lusty late blows by the lower order sealed the game and eventually a 4 wkt defeat for the MCC. Pods.

MCC Man of The Match

Mcgree. Quiet man. Sav.

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Match Details MCC vs SSC JULY 29 IN ENGLISH GARDEN

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
SEMBIAN B 7
LOVELL * 65
MORGAN B 36
PRAMOD ST 2
MIKEY CT 9
SEAR * 25
BLADES DNB
SALING DNB
GLIGOROV DNB
PARRY DNB
VD DNB
TOTAL 31 Overs 161 for 4

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
GLIGOROV 8 2 29 1
SEAR 8 1 48 0
BLADES 8 1 23 2
PRAMOD 8 0 33 2
MIKEY 8 0 21 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC WON CONVINCINGLY BY 6 WKTS WITH STACKS OF OVERS TO SPARE.

Comments on the Match

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a cricket captain in possession of a good team, must be in want of a 12th man. Was Mikey going to turn up? Would van Damage be allowed to play? Where was Cpt Morgan? More importantly, where were the teas? With these questions obviously playing on his mind, Lovell went out for the coin toss and promptly lost. So under leaden skies and sporadic drizzle, the MCC took to the field against Serendip. It would be unfair to single out any bowler as all bowled superbly with a ball which rapidly turned into a bar of soap. They were tight—as tight as the butt cheeks of a jailed man with dysentery. The average bowling figures would be something like 8-1-30-1. Unfortunately, the bowlers were not ably supported. Although there were 3 run outs and the Serendip batsmen were scared witless by the bullet arm of Saling, 7 catches went down. The ex-treasurer had tears in his eyes when he thought of the fines that would have been levied in previous years. Lovell played like a goalkeeper at first slip and put two over the bar; the crocodile returned after a year’s hibernation; and a number of swirlers went to ground in the deep. Still, apart from a late flurry, Serendip were well contained and made a mere 158-7 off their allotment. It has to be said that the MCC reply was a model of professionalism and proficiency. Under bright sunshine, they found plenty of gaps for singles and dispatched the bad balls to the fence. The two Captains were particularly productive: Lovell’s timing was majestic—one prod went for six over cover—and he was 65*, while Morgan rode his luck and his new bat to a quickfire 36. It then just took Dan the Man a handful of balls to hit 26* and the game was all over in the 32nd over. So to the 12th man drama. Saling was down for the dubious honour/honor. Mikey showed. Morgan was made to sit out 12 overs for his late arrival. Parry injured his hand. Wayno decided it would be pointless to bat since he would be triggered immediately under orders from he-who-must-not-be-named. In the end it was decreed by the umpire, after the equivalent of a G8 summit, that Dunne was the least likely to cry and so he was 12th man.

MCC Man of The Match

LOVELL 65*.

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Match Details MCC vs CUP POCC AWAY AUGUST 5

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
VD CT 124
LOVELL CT 25
SEMBI LBW 7
MCINTOSH * 18
SEAR B 6
DUNNE RO 5
PARRY * 1
BLADES DNB
GLIGOROV DNB
SALING DNB
SCOTT DNB
TOTAL 40 Overs 231 for 5

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
SCOTT 6 0 43 1
GLIGOROV 8 0 46 2
BLADES 7 0 45 3
MCINTOSH 7.3 0 22 4
SEAR 6 1 26 0

Summary of Match Result

MCC WON BY 43 RUNS

Comments on the Match

POCC vs MCC It should have p1ssed down all day according to several well regarded weather forecasting services. They all agreed on the same moist forecast (for a change) so it was quite a pleasant surprise that the ultimate cup round robin match was completed with only one brief rain interlude around the first drinks break. And what a good job it was completed, for the MCC actually managed to win a game at the Hexen Kessel that is POCC’s home ground in Hasenbergl. Surrounded by high rise flats, graffitied schools and nasty little youths starting fires, MCC played out quite a dramatic win that saw the full range of emotions on display, so much so in fact that the game itself almost didn’t happen. A controversial umpiring decision, i.e. to ask the umpire in question to umpire an MCC game in the first place, didn’t go down too well with a few of the MCC hardcore and sparks were already flying at 1145am. We’ll leave this incident for another report, however. It probably deserves one of its very own, accessible to a select audience only though I daresay. Despite the argy bargy and despite having his neutrality being called into question, it must be said that the umpire could not be faulted for his performance during either innings. With a scheduled start of 1200, the home team were struggling for numbers and the toss therefore awarded to the MCC by default. Now usually POCC win the toss and bat first. Usually they score 250 odd and then skittle us out for between 80 and 140. Usually we all go home in a bad mood. Usually wasn’t on the agenda today – the MCC would bat first. And so it was that 9 of us relaxed on the sidelines for the next 2 1/2 hours as Lovell and Van Dalsum tore apart the POCC’s bowling. That’s a lie actually. Van Dalsum tore apart the bowling. Lovell was attempting to grow a moustache or something. After 9 overs we were 55 without loss, after 20 we were still without loss and we’d passed the 100 mark. Lovell, dreaming of Chris Tavare throughout, managed approximately 20 of this total. Somewhat uncharacteristic in truth. Van Dalsum accounted for 70 odd and wides the remainder. Our banned Kiwi was in a rich vein of form, fully filling his boots after the wicket keeper spilled him early doors. By the time he had departed, he’d scored a magnificent 124 having carted all comers to various corners of the ground with ferocious regularity, forcing several stoppages in play as the dejected POCC team scurried about searching for the ball. It was a pleasing sight. A great innings, one that we’d all been waiting for, one we all knew was due, and one which was needed today more than any other. It should be noted that “Tonight, Matthew, I am going to be Chris Tavare” had progressed onto 25 by this point. With a platform to build on that we had so sorely missed in previous encounters with these opponents, all that remained was for the rest to chip in and deliver a respectable and defendable total. Eventually, following a cameo from Mcintosh (21*) and brief knocks from Appavu, Parry, Dunne and Sear, the MCC closed their 40 overs on 231. For all the Tavare jibes he received on the sidelines, without the captain’s knock it could have been a different story. It was a sterling effort from the captain, keeping the pressure on the POCC bowlers and allowing Van Dalsum to blaze away as they struggled to find a way through. Don’t ever let batting à la Tavare be underestimated. For a change, the bowlers had something to defend. Scott opened the bowling with Gligorov and before you knew it the POCC were on 40 odd after 4 overs. Scott can be considered unlucky having the opener dropped early on. Gligorov’s answer was yet to come – he was relieved by Blades early on having gone for more than a few on the postage stamp ground that is Hasenbergl – we’ve all been tonked around there. Scott continued and served up some beauties, beating the bat on numerous occasions. Any runs that were scored off Scott were generally streaky cuts and edges. He was bowling well when out of the blue he decided to even things up on the wide front and proceeded to bowl a longish over, being called for 5 wides. Blades meanwhile struck first as the opposition captain having hit a few lusty blows in the first few overs then skied one to leg gully which captain Lovell did well to get under and hold on to running around from 1st slip. The breakthrough was needed – POCC has been scoring at a worryingly rapid rate. Scott obviously determined not to repeat his 2 for 1 effort the over before, struck in the next over with one that kept low. Bowl straight on this pitch and she’ll help you. With the home team now down 2 wickets and with a slightly weakened batting line up to come, the MCC sensed victory. The captain then proceeded to mix up the bowling, sensing that it was the slower stuff off which our opponents were giving most chances. He was right too. Gligorov returned and took two wickets and gave away as many runs in his last 6 overs as he had done in his first two, Blades got another and the POCC were reeling. There was some resistance from their middle order, but Mcintosh took care of them finishing them off with a fine spell of 4 for 22. Sear was unlucky having three dropped chances and a good lbw shout turned down, but it didn’t matter. The MCC bowlers did what so often the POCC do to us – skittled them out as they chased. Commendable performance in the field by Sailing and Parry, the former whom was in his last match for the club before suffering the unfortunate fate of having to go home. Been a pleasure knowing you and playing with you Ryan. Perhaps we’ll organise a big fuck off MCC tour to Michigan and that buddy of yours could get us a game staged at the little stadium you know? You’ll be long remembered at this club – Des’s stats will see to that even if the rest of us have forgotten you this time next year. Kidding man, kidding. Who’d have thunk it? Bring on the semi.

MCC Man of The Match

VD. TOUGH DECISION THOUGH.

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Match Details MCC vs LUFTHANSA 13 AUG LEAGUE AWAY

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
WAYNE NO 15
SEMBI NO 19
BLADES DNB
GLIGOROV DNB
MIKEY DNB
PARRY DNB
PALFREY DNB
ANGUS DNB
PRYKE DNB
LOVELL DNB
MCGREE DNB
TOTAL 6 Overs 41 for 0

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
GLIGOROV 8 2 18 4
MIKEY 8 2 17 3
MCGREE 0.3 0 2 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC WON BY 10 WKTS TO CLINCH LEAGUE TITLE

Comments on the Match

MCC vs Luftwaffe After driving half way across the Bavarian hills to finally reach the bloody ground near the Flugplatz, the championship clincher was to be played on a pitch seemingly sewn together with coconut skins. Superb. The surroundings were completed by a massive inyerface cornfield shadowing the entire length of one side of the pitch. It was also enhanced by a baseball pitch complete with dug out style metal fence cages, which proved to be the away dressing room. Was the “Field of Dreams” type movie setting and the fact that we were behind cages like charged up chimps/tigers going to have an impact on the day’s game? You betcha! Step forward our very own Kevin Costner – Jason Gligorov – and take a bow son. Jason was amongst it nice and early as he bowled the opener who played like a fairy. This was backed up by the fact that his name was Shirley. Now if his face was literally a couple of inches the other way, then our Kevin could have ended up somewhere near the cornfields as Dushantha absolutely müllered one straight back at Jason who held on to an absolute brute of a catch. Oscar number two for Kevin. Mikey Mac wasn’t to be outshone at the other end and bowled magnificently well with good pace and control. The MCC superstars had the Luftwaffe reeling as Angus held onto a catch at gully off Mikey`s bowling at the second attempt. The danger batsman “Milan” was quickly sent back to the shed as Palfrey held onto a superb diving catch at point to give a pumped up Glig Oscar number 3. The Luftwaffe slowly resembled a Bomber Harris hit squadron as they were plummeting to a crash landing with no chance to eject. Mikey bowled another one of their boys with a decent delivery which was too quick, too straight and simply just too damn good for their batsman to play. The MCC really did think they were in Hollywood as we looked on in disbelief as one of their lads was seen dancing down the track a la Fred Astaire with his team on 30 odd for 5. Oscar number four for our Kevin was just around the conrner as Fred was promptly clean bowled. Mikey grabbed another clean bowled wicket and Paul Mac grabbed his first and also the last wicket of the game with another clean bowled wicket. It turned out that the Lufftwaffe only had 9 players so perhaps credit to Bomber Harris who might have cherry picked off a couple of them as they were making their way to report to the ground. So an excellent bowling performance from the Kevin, Mikey and Paul Mac put the MCC firmly in control of the match as we had to chase a sizzling 41 to win. Sembi and Wayne were charged with getting the team off to a good start. Both played some lovely shots and we sensed the championship was in the bag, when at 30 without loss, Tony was given the “green” light by the skipper to rack a filthy one up on the boundary. Sembi and Wayne saw the boys home just in time as the rain, which had been forcasted, slowly arrived and emptied it down for the rest of the day. Well done lads to everyone and lets make sure we go and win the cup. MCC – god gave us soul and rock and roll.

MCC Man of The Match

GLIGOROV

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Match Details MCC vs WIESBADEN GERMAN Q/F IN FRANFURT SEP 10

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
PALFREY B 0
SEMBI CT 4
HOOLIGAN B 33
MCGREE CT 27
MIKEY CT 0
ANGUS CT 11
LOVELL * 3
BLADES * 4
GLIGOROV DNB
SCOTT DNB
PRYKE DNB
TOTAL 32.1 Overs 137 for 6

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
SCOTT 6 2 20 2
GLIGOROV 2 0 23 0
PALFREY 8 2 25 3
MCGREE 6.5 2 21 5
MIKEY 6 1 27 0
PRYKE 3 1 11 0
BLADES 1 0 5 0

Summary of Match Result

MCC WIN BY 4 WKTS TO REACH SEMIS.

Comments on the Match

Match Report – Wiesbaden Now before I get this match report under way let me be totally clear about one thing. This was a very serious German Cup quarter final match against Wiesbaden (champions of Hessen no less) and as such all participants were fully focused on the game. Naturally in bed at a ridiculously early hour in order to get a proper nights rest before the big game. As everyone was obviously in a deep sleep dreaming of cup glory absolutely none of the following could have occurred. For example • No one frequented an Irish bar and took onboard local and imported beverages served in pint form. • No one made any inappropriate/lewd comments about, or tried to socialise with any female karaoke participants in the aforementioned bar that no one went to. • No one took the p1ss out of the 7 foot tall girl with clown size feet. • No one decided to go to a strip bar in order to judge the quality of the Frankfurt entertainment/nightlife. • No one was seen inserting dollar bills and other currency into the underwear or between the breasts of said entertainment. • No one went ‘out of curiosity’ to an Eros centre and struggled to escape after being cornered by a rather top heavy lady of the night. • No one returned to the hostel at 4:30am and proceeded to keep the shrubbery (which had inexplicably found its way into the room) in check by carrying out some controlled burning. • No one returned from the Eros centre particularly late in the evening boasting the proud figures of ‘2 for 35’. • No one almost made both captains late for the game by deciding to spend the early hours of Sunday morning exercising in a video kabine. Like I said this trip to Frankfurt was all about the cricket and for the first time ever an MCC tour passed without incident. Onto the game itself. As is the norm, our skipper Lovell did his usual stand up job at the toss of calling tails when the coin clearly had at least two heads on it. A well rested MCC team were therefore sent to graze in the field for what promised to be a very long 50 overs. The nice dry outfield and bouncy Astroturf pitch (they were obviously far too classy an outfit for a coconut mat or flix pitch) promised a hatful of runs. The previous nights excessive sleep clearly showed early doors as Scott and Glig went for 37 off the first 5 and Captain Morgan hobbled off the pitch with hamstring troubles (whether it was due to poor fitness levels or the slight of being named 12th man is up for debate). At this point Houlahan arrived and he seemed to inspire the troops as Scott bowled two wicket maidens on the bounce to remove both openers in a fine spell of hostile bowling and Palfrey (on as first change) got in on the action to get the third wicket of the day. Mikey Waldroi took a great catch to further turn the tide. An under par start had been set to rights and confidence was clearly increasing. A tiring Scott was replaced by McGree who opened up with a wicket maiden leaving Wiesbaden in the uncomfortable position of 70-4 at the first drinks break. Second drinks break was scheduled for 34 overs and unfortunately for Wiesbaden they didn’t make it that far as except for a couple of batsmen who dug in, many seemed to forget that the game was 50 overs and decided to go too big too early. Good bowling from all of the MCC bowlers led to a regular fall of wickets but it was McGree 5-21 and Palfrey who ended with 3-25 who took the spoils. Wiesbaden were dismissed for what seemed a paltry 136 and MCC had put in a fine effort in the field with only a couple of moments of comedy when the wicketkeeper and slip cordon decided to impersonate a pinball machine. Whilst tucking in to our bread and curry rumours spread of the demon Scottish fast bowler who was about to confront our batsman. People looked concerned when after just two balls Palfrey had his stumps uprooted and trudged off saying that “I was lucky to have survived the first ball” and “it’s swinging a long way”. Houlahan went in and looked assured in defence (when not facing Bruce) and also played some nice shots. At the other end Sembi looked a little out of sorts and soon departed trying to cart ‘’a fella with a dubious action’’ over long on just after having complained about his bowling action. He was right though and there was a lot of chucking taking place which when acted upon by the umpire didn’t go down too well with the opposition. Meantime Houlahan (33 off 100) had been joined by McGree (27 off 73) in the key partnership of the day, going was a little slow but totally necessary as Bruce was doing far too much with the ball to get the edge. Just ask Mikey about that one as just after Houlahan was bowled he departed to an alleged air shot capably snaffled by the keeper. No matter how long he stood rooted to the crease the umpire just wouldn’t change his mind and suddenly things were looking a little shaky at 93-4. Big Gus came in and hit the shot of the day rifling the bowler straight down the ground to the delight of the crowd. Lovell saw off Bruce’s final fling and by the time MOM ‘Paul here’ McGree had departed we were just shy of victory at 129-6. Blades came in and hit the winning boundary (almost making his trip worthwhile) and the guys celebrated by jumping back in the cars and driving 4 hours home. It was a great 4 wicket win which booked our place in the last four and earned us a trip to Hamburg for the semis against the reigning champions. Man of the match was as clear as day as McGree stood out with both bat and ball, a fine performance.

MCC Man of The Match

PAUL HERE MCGREE

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Match Details MCC vs GERMAN CLUB SEMI V HSV IN HAMBURG

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
MCGREE CT 24
LOVELL CT 0
MIKEY CT 66
SEMBI RO 5
PALFREY B 35
HOULAHAN CT 22
SEAR B 29
ANGUS RO 6
PRYKE B 0
SCOTT NO 3
GLIGOROV NO 8
TOTAL 50 Overs 234 for 9

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
SCOTT 2.5 0 25 0
PRYKE 5 0 28 0
MIKEY 7 1 31 1
MCGREE 5 1 34 0
SEAR 5 0 37 0
GLIG 6 0 42 1
TODD 2 0 25 0

Summary of Match Result

MCC LOST BY 8 WKTS

Comments on the Match

Arriving at Mümmelsmannsberg by taxi early Sunday morning reminded me somewhat distinctively of Hamburg’s version of Hasenbergl. A short stroll through the local farm paddocks lead us onto the playing field, a large playing surface, cut relatively well, with a newly laid astro type turf to match. Player ID’s were swapped and accounted for, and we were ready for a 10.45 kabine toss. HSV called correctly and asked MCC to make first use of the pads. Lovell and McGree took first rights; Lovell fell disappointingly early doors playing his favourite cover drive, and went to a good diving catch. McGree and Mikey put on 81 in quick time, McGree batting with cautious authority while Mikey taking the long handle at any given opportunity. Shades of Collis King. McGree fell for 24 and Sembi was run out allegedly for 5 meaning the Palfreyman joined Mikey. Palfrey looked to take his time, building his picket fence, while Mikey continued his good run. He finally fell for a top-notch 66, however, we all felt a 100 beckoned – he was seeing it that well at the end. Palfrey in combo with the Hooligan started to find the fence, one stunning flick off his legs for 6, an exquisite highlight. Houzza increased the tempo with some flashing square cuts before falling ct behind for 22 in the same fashion as the Quiet Man and Waldroi. Dan Sear BDM (29) then joined Palfers and it was at this point of the innings where boundaries were coming at will. Sear decided running was nothing short of pointless, and agriculture was more the way forward. Palfrey eventually fell for a well compiled 35. The middle order had built a useful platform and ensured we batted the full 50 overs. And then after some minor hiccups down to the last over of the MCC innings, Glig was – to be fair – slightly pinged during his spell in the middle but with one ball to go he defiantly and nonchalantly ignored his wounds to put his foot down the track and walloped the opening bowler into the wide pastures over the rope for 6. MCC: 234/9 off 50. A lunchtime curry did the job for the masses, settling the stomachs just nicely, many thanks to HSV. The HSV innings started with a hiss and roar, the MCC were introduced from ball one to one Mr Zaheer Malik. One could easily be forgiven for thinking he didn’t actually have an opening partner – the opening partnership worth 128, with the “other bloke” making a very scratchy 14. Malik quickly took Scott out of the attack, Mikey and Pryke did then “steady” the situation to a certain degree. However, Malik was obviously giving us somewhat of a false dawn, as he then simply played an incredible innings of timing, placement and power. Most of his shots were pure cricketing shots, the odd mishit and a rare tonk. He took Sear, McGree and Palfrey in particular to the cricketing sword. Glig finally trapped Malik LBW for 137 off no more than about 70 balls – a good catch by Houzza on the boundary rope off Mikey. At this stage the chase was a mere walk in the park, the damage had already been done. While Malik was batting he had a Mr N.N. Kahn for company, Kahn then took up what Malik had started, taking a liking to Glig and Houzza, 4’s and 6’s were a dime a dozen, and as the scorer it was getting ridiculously hard to keep up. MCC were finally put out of their misery in the 34th over, when Scott was planted for 2 sixes over deep long on. HSV: 238/2 off 33.5 overs. The MCC lads left the field knowing is just wasn’t meant to be, not our day. Full credit to Zaheer Malik, stole the show, and can be justifiably named the MOM. Yours in match scoring. Kiwi

MCC Man of The Match

MIKEY NIGHT TRAIN MCINTOSH

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Prague 2006
The dud czech tour to Praha took a turn for the worse even before the troops had set off on their chosen mission. Jumpers Scott, senior fast bowler (and oh how he would have loved the wicket), bailed a few days early leaving the team one short and critically with only four recognised bowlers. Reports that his absence was due to Lovell trying to recruiting him as some sort of babysitter for tour virgins Gus and Cpt Morgan remain unconfirmed. Lets be honest though that’s the sort of responsibility that would make anyone think twice.

The squad embarked to Prague in two seperate factions.

The cheapskates who chose to accompany Kiwi on something resembling the Bombay Cattle Express in conditions which were far too tropical and very moist to say the least. The other faction consisting of just the Quiet man and his other half had decided to travel in more style and were probably at this point relaxing at a nice air conditioned airport en route Ostblock.

Fears of dehydration and overheating led to (cold re(fresh)ments being consumed at a fast early pace which led to a worrying shortage long before the German border had been breached. An inspired decision to relocate to the (MCC) buffet wagon saw Gus’ eyes light up at the prospect of Pavels cold fresh Czech brew. In our new less cramped environs things began to perk up as Houzza fresh from his English suburban greenhouse produced some of his favourite potted plants to share amongst anyone willing. Knut frowned and bought another beer.

Some brave souls (possibly fuelled by alcohol and other substances) took the naïve decision to sample the buffet menu where they were treated to such delights as ‘grandma’s potato soup’. Not one for the faint hearted and certainly not an experience to be repeated, hey Bob? Lovo and Houzza settled for a friendly game of backgammon (Houzza really had thought of everything) which very quickly turned in to a not so friendly game of backgammon when Lovo (a backgammon veteran of 1 week) accused Houzza of at best not knowing the rules and at worst cheating.

By now Saling had resorted to his pod seemingly bored with the inane banter of his companions. Cpt Morgan was still nursing his beers after making the schoolboy mistake of going large the night before. Basics. And Gus was getting disturbed by his cold fresh cans becoming progressively luke warm then just simply, warm, and was seen simply muttering ‘stored in the freezer Pavel, like b@llocks they were. Thankfully Praha was on the horizon.

So it was that a somewhat jaded bunch arrived at Praha Hbf wanting to get to the hostel and get amongst all Prague has to offer. A long wait for taxis and extortionate prices. Eventually we arrived at the hostel to discover that there was an issue with our bookings, nothing was going right. It turned out to be a storm in a tea cup and soon all were ready for a big night out in Prague, well all that is apart from the more serious and elderly of the touring party i.e. Sembi stayed in and Knut had an early one (maybe he was suffering from partaking in Houzza magic cigarettes).

Kiwi being an experienced traveller and familiar as he is with the back streets of Prague promised to lead the remaining thirsty ramblers to the ‘best’ club in Praha. A mecca for tourists and locals alike, 5 floors of pumping tunes and some of the best liquor to be had in the whole of the Czech Republic. Needless to say everyone was sold on the idea so the short walk there from Wenceslas square began.

Needless to say the walk was not a short one and plenty of entertainment was had on the way. Seeing that everyone was pouring out of banks with pockets bulging full of Czech Kroner the doormen of a number of exotic establishments tried to drag us in to their dens. As we turned each of them down and strolled on a number of interesting propositions were offered, the favourites being.

Free sh@g for the stag.
Shag one get one free, and
You can put your fingers in for free. (personal favourite)
Tempting though the offers were, the party trudged onwards towards the promised club, stopping occasionally for both food and liquid refreshment to replenish energy levels. Some even found time to dance with a young Czech girl (Houzza and Kiwi), Kiwi looked to be trying hard but got nowhere and gave up when her friend arrived and she lost interest. Little did they know that Lovo had already turned down the option of dancing with the girl, standards boys, standards.

After a lengthy tour of the Old town and a two hour, 8 mile (at least) walk from Wenceslas square we eventually ended up on the river with the promised land of good music and hot women standing before us. All credit to Kiwi he had (eventually) delivered in his mission and the club (from the outside at least) appeared to be fairly good. Inside was a different story as it appeared that some of the building work and most of the decorating had yet to be finished. Captain Morgan was unimpressed and after almost dying after downing a particularly lethal absinth stomped off in to the distance to make his own way back. Others stayed, some taking to the dance floor where no doubt Saling and Gus were trying to work their magic on what turned out to be mostly a bunch of American tourists and some taking to the comfy seats. Houzza especially seemed to enjoy chatting to an Irish guy, we know you’re married with kids but there are no excuses for chatting up someone of the same sex! Sometime after 5am time was called on the drinking session and a few hours of relaxation was taken prior to the big game.

Next morning after hurried breakfasts and limited amounts of sleep the team reconvened in front of the hostel for team photos. Saling had found someone to share his ipod with, a big breasted girl called Laura, apparently a girl from the dorm (more comments about her later). Sembi after having spent all morning studying tram and tube timetables had plotted our best route to the ground which was ideally located about an hour or so away from the hostel and three or four changes of public transport away.

On route we managed to see some strange goings on outside the church as we paused to allow Knut and Big Gus 15 minutes to walk around looking for a bank he should have found the night before. Outside the church there seemed to be some sort of cult dancing and general prancing going on to the strains of some bizarre musical accompaniment. All that seemed to be missing was a chicken to sacrifice. Meanwhile on the other side of the road our attention was drawn to some sort of altercation/kerfuffle between a gentlemen who was seemingly not happy about some woman trying to steal his jacket and run off down the road and a number of other interested parties. Subject was tracked down and some blokes exchanged slaps, all very odd but apparently par for the course for Prague.

Our arrival at the ground (after picking up McGree and other half Sav (nice girl – the quiet one punching well above his weight) en route) was poorly timed as it allowed us to chip in with the setting up of seating and tables. The game soon got under way on what turned out to be a new strip hence the erratic bounce and need for all measures of protective gear. Highlights of the MCC batting performance were Sembi, Lovo and a brief but entertaining knock from Houzza, other batsman spent more time wearing the ball than hitting it. Knut managed to take his career tally to 102 runs and enthusiastically raised his bat to the delirious crowd.

There was one highlight off the pitch when a very outgoing lady together with her photographer boyfriend decided that the backdrop of a cricket match was the perfect opportunity for a few semi naked holiday snaps. A few minutes rest were taken by the players to enjoy the spectacle and regain their composure, a rare occurrence of porn shoot stopping play. The pair returned some time later and immediately Gus together with the captain of life were in hot pursuit and eager to teach the lady a good forward defensive. Some would say that they were less interested in her ability to play cricket and more interested in getting their own photographic evidence of her qualities, the jury is still out on this one.

Between innings Saling put in one of the performances of the tour by taking on the tropical heat and bravely spending the next half an hour or so overseeing the barbecue. A fine spread was put on and after overindulging the MCC cricketers wobbled back on to the pitch for the second half. Sembi, Houlahan and Mcgree all bowled tidily but Captain Morgan decided to produce his own style of buffet, maybe he should have gone to the nearby pub between innings to sample some cold fresh in order to relax. Unfortunately our lack of bowling options were exposed towards the end of the innings and despite a decent performance where wickets were picked up regularly we slipped to a one wicket defeat. See match report for more details.

Having got the match out of the way it was time for the fun to begin and an hospitable Prague CC took us to the local boozer to help us on our way. After spending about 3 hours trying to get our glasses empty at the same time (a very complicated task it proved to be) we eventually left for the hostel to freshen up and ‘get amongst it in a big way’.

Returning to the hotel shock set in as first Knut and then Captain Morgan discovered that certain items had been stolen (probably dirty little cleaners). Unamused the Cpt demanded free accommodation and promptly got it, Knut being a more mellow fellow and less disturbed with the loss of his trusty towel settled for a slight reduction. Apart from that it must be said the hostel was top notch and credit to Kiwi for making a good call.

Sembi once again spent the evening on his tod having failed to meet at said drinking establishment. He was also uncontactable on his phone and his sheepish grin the next day led to speculation that he may have experienced some of the more exotic of the local delights. Whatever happened he was not seen again that day.

After a civilised meal (which even McGree (shadow) made it to before heading in his own direction) the remaining troops together with some female Texan additions to the party headed off in search of more clubbing and drinking. Club was a step up from the night before and the upstairs bar which acted as a perving pavilion above the dance floor seemed to be enjoyed by all. A few drinks later and Gus smelling something in the air was off to buy some new plants for his garden, Bob, Saling and Lovell were also off after spotting the Texans we had arrived with. Bob and Saling it must be said were well in there but some girly pact to all leave together meant that they were never destined to fulfil their missions until they found someone for the fat bird. Lovo was offered 1000 Croner but turned it down (eventually he admitted that 2000 Croner would have been enough) so in the end Saling and Bob were disappointed. The girls did leave (together), the fat one being overheard asking for an ”all you can eat” buffet, it’s shocking when a girl lets herself slide!

As people finally called in quits for the night the three left standing (or wobbling to be precise) were Gus, Houlahan and Lovell who were intent on going big and BIGGER. So off they went on their mission staggering from one joint to another, Gus rolling reefers one handed. They had an interesting tour of Prague, smoking on various islands in the river, stopping briefly in campsites, catching buses to the middle of nowhere and ordering more cold fresh from a café for breakfast just because the girl who was working there was cute.

Some people woke up to an unexpected sight when they were faced with Laura (Saling’ ipod partner of the previous day) lying flat on her back in all her glory after a big night. It seems that she might be half brasilian and apparently she will be coming to Munich soon so if you check in to Euro Youth soon enough you may also get to see more of her than you bargained for. (Glig?)

When everyone was preparing to check out the next morning (Knut was typically German and efficient being the only one to check out before midday) it was evident that the three tourists mentioned above were still out there on the streets no doubt improving the reputation of MCC touring parties. When they finally got back Gus disappeared straight to his chariot whereas Houzza and Lovo refused to admit defeat and went straight out on Bobs tour of Prague.

Whilst Sembi once again reverted to his Lonely Planet style of sight seeing and set off early doors, Kiwi took the opportunity to ditch everyone else in search of some girl he once used to know intimately (Jana – hottie (should never have let her go)). Everyone else headed off on Bobs tour and had a trip round the Botanic gardens and a wander by the river. The previous nights exersions were getting the better of Lovell and Houlahan so they took a nap outside a café for a couple of hours whilst the sights of Prague were explored.

All too soon the Bombay express needed to be boarded for the return journey to Kraut land and mindful of how long and painful the journey was going to be the tour virgins went off in search of anything that could pass the time. They returned with most of the cold fresh that the train station had to offer and a selection of top Czech top shelf reading material.

Gus was all over the reading material and chose to disappear with it for a considerable period of time, returning to brag about what he had just been up to. Sembi got drunk (quickly) and sat in the next cabin to letch at two young ladies before returning to set Kiwi the challenge of trying to pull them. Kiwi failed to accept the challenge and Sembi got bored and switched on his ‘Best of Bollywood’ album and settled in for a long and rudely loud nap. Not even throwing Bobs assortment of seeds at him managed to disturb the rhythm of his snoring.

Gus, refuelled by an afternoon kip and his bathroom activities led a sing along which very much ruffled the feathers of the skipper who was sulking at the back of the cabin and looked very much in need of an asprin and a pair of matchsticks to keep his eyes propped open. He wasn’t going to let a small annoyance like the skipper get in his way though and the singing continued unabated almost all the way home. All the other masses of passengers may have been upset too but who cares we were p1ssed and on tour. At least they got to learn about a load of new songs that had never heard of before all of which had the word ‘Can’ in the title.

Reach out and touch CANS
CANS, CANS, CANS (looking for a good time)
How can we sleep if our CANS are burning
Your own personal CAN
Strawberry CANS forever
I predict a CAN
I wanna hold your CANS
Whats CANS got to do with it?
Hey CANS
Get up CAN up
If you’re going to CAN francisco
I would do anything for CANS but I wont do that.
And that in a nutshell was that, a good time was had by all, everyone put in some good work off the cricket field, Prague is still recovering from the trip and a couple of touring cherries were popped.

FRIENDLY MATCHES 2006

Match Details MCC vs MICC AWAY APRIL 16 – 35over match

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
GILES lbw sobek 0
PALFREY ** 95
PARRY b 1
LOVELL lbw golden 0
FURLONGER ct 5
SOBEK b 0
MCGREE ct 13
NAV SHARMA ct 4
BLADES ct 20
SALING ** 0
GLIG DNB DNB
TOTAL 34.1 Overs 164 for 8

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
NAV SHARMA 6 0 32 2
GLIG 7 1 22 1
BLADES 5.4 0 35 1
MCGREE 7 0 23 1
PARRY 7 1 29 1
PALFREY 2 0 13 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC WON BY TWO WKTS IN FINAL OVER OF GAME +++NOTES FROM THE CHAIRMAN+++ Catches: N. Sharma, Saling, Furlonger (2), Gligorov Run-out: Parry/N. Sharma – Christmas fine for being involved in a runout McGree – Christmas fine, retrospectively demanding four runs to be taken off his figures claiming they were byes

Comments on the Match

MCC opened the season on a blisteringly hot Aprilese day at the theatre of cricket at Westpark … so hot in fact that rehabilitated skipper, Lovell, got burnt during the course of the day – having failed to apply factor 65. Basics. Before that, of course, he lost the obligatory toss with the testimonial man, Rajendra Nath. Invited to graze in the paddock for 2 hours, MCC took to the field with debutants Angus Lamby Furlonger donning the gloves and semi-debutant Mark Palfrey of Tasmania, starting for Munich in earnest after guesting in the grappafest of Trentino late last season. Nav removed cowboy Salman with a nice c & b and was also involved in a nice run out with the good doctor Parry. Glig bowled well considering he was spotted outside Temple Bar butchering a kebab a mere 5 hours before kick off. Bunty Blades, making his reappearance after shoulder surgery, slowly built up some rhythm and finished up the innings in good style. McGree was quiet until exploding into life with a late wkt. Doc Quizmaster was the pick of the bowlers from my vantage point at deep cow – tying up a few of their set batsmen. Some good fielding too with Knotty Furlonger and late switch Saling taking good catches behind the stumps. Glig took his second ever catch in history at squarish leg. All in all a fair bowling performance with naturally too many wides down the leg side. MICC closing on 160. Scorer McIntosh, ably supported by the Chairman, marvelled over the Antiguan temperatures after a quick passing shower at tea time. After some of Mr Badly’s home-made cake and muffins, the treasurer GILO opened up with the Palfreyman. Despite the amazing array of kit on display in the MCC kit bag, Palfrey couldn’t find matching left-hand batting gloves so opened with a fetching gardening glove instead. Sobek soon sent GILO back to the hatch lbw despite playing an immaculate high elbow fwd defensive. Skidded thru was the call from the large crowd assembled by the hatch. A brave decision by young Sobers considering his late payment of subs to the treasurer just a week prior. Sobers was duly relieved of officiating duties by Blades. Parry came and went refusing to adhere to his five rules of batting for longer than 10 minutes at a time. This brought skipper Lovell to the crease. He was soon sent very quickly back where he had come from, adjudged lbw by Bunty Blades, who decided to test the Lovell turning potential very early in the season. That’s plumb, boss. Furlonger and Palfrey steadied the rocking ship, though Angus looked more like Chris Tavare rather than Alan Lamb. More flamboyance to be expected as the season unfolds. Sobers did a Hershelle Gibbs and left a very very straight ball to join the skipper in the primary club. The gimpish Aussie in the crowd remarked how the English contingent had overdone themselves this week and had contributed a vast total of five runs to the MCC batting cause. A marvellous effort that, Richie. At 33-5, MCC were up sh1t creek with a broken paddle as the quiet man joined Palfrey. They took the score up to 60 odd before McGree sent a pie straight down point’s gullet. Nav looked at ease supporting Palfers before sending one high to cow. This brought Bunty to the crease having escaped the wrath of the skipper. A delightful cameo of 20 with Palfrey going big at the other end and suddenly the game had opened up with MCC now favourites, chasing down less than a run a ball. Blades succumbed late doors bringing Babe Ruth Saling to the crease to join the Tasmanian devil. Another six to Palfrey and the game was in the bag with 5 balls to spare. A chanceless innings of 95 not out, a fine effort. A good game and an even better start to the season. This Saturday MCC travel to Lahore Hasbeenburgled to take on league champions PAK ORIENT (11 am start).

MCC Man of The Match

PALFREY NO FURTHER QUESTIONS FINE DONNAGE OF GARDENING GLOVES

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Match Details MCC vs PAK ORIENT SAT APR 22, 40over match

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
PALFREY ct 23
LOVELL b 1
PARRY b 3
SEMBIAN lbw 6
MIKEY b 7
SEAR b 13
BLADES b 18
MITCHAM b 9
DUNNE b 3
SOBEK st 0
SALING * 0
TOTAL 22.3 Overs 105 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
PALFREY 8 0 42 1
SEAR 8 0 39 1
MIKEY 8 0 47 2
BLADES 5 0 47 0
DUNNE 3 0 20 1
SEMBIAN 3 1 8 3
SOBEK 3 0 21 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC LOST BY LOTS TO A BETTER SIDE ON THE DAY. MOVE ON.

Comments on the Match

Six long and eventful days have passed since the euphoria of the last over victory against MIC – Shabash. The MCC arrived in a most delightful des res part of Munich, Hasbeenburgled, to tackle current league champions Pak Orient. The visiting party arrived promptly at the ground for the scheduled 11am start – except for MC Mikey McIntosh who was cruising around in his pimp mobile looking for prospects for future revenue. He continued this ultimately fruitless search for talent after the game – delaying his arrival for the post match drinks till well after the first Maß had been downed and the follow up ordered at the legendary Ghost Train. As is MCC tradition nowadays peppermint tea was being taken as Captain of life, Lovell, proceeded to lose another toss and they were put into the field for another session of leather chasing in searing April heat. A quick pep talk from Sir Henry detailing the amount of pies to be served up per over and the strict buffet bar opening hours was not enough to prevent Pak Orient from posting a huge score of 260+. Khaleed Butt plundering a good ton before he was finally snared off the bowling of Sear caught behind by MCC pin up Bob ‘do you like it straight up or with a twist’ Mitcham. The MCC perhaps did not take make the most of their chances which would ultimately prove costly. A notable example was when a straight driven loopy skier saw Mikey and Sembian discuss who would catch the ball as they ran parallel to each other. A deep and meaningful discussion that was still continuing in the Ghost Train many hours later. The ball as you can imagine plummeted in between their feet mid conversation. Another lollipop looped up later in the innings off the luckless Blades as Palfrey slipped at a crucial time. A look and no expletive from Blades who did not wish to be fined his match fee x2. A fine catch was taken early in the innings as Captain of Life snared a chance in the slips to remove Man Sore off the slippery bowling of Mikey. He finished with 2-47 off 8 as Sear would made no mistake with the huge Garry Owen that came his way at deep cow. With the exception of Sembian 3-8 off 3 overs, ditching spin for medium pace this season, all the MCC bowlers were tapped to some extent. Swashbuckler Sear looked good in taking 1-39 off 8 having left the blackberry at home to concentrate on cricket rather than his early morning punts on the equine species. Palfrey mixed quicker pace with latter well flighted slower ball leggy type spells. He claimed the prized scalp of Waqar who was stumped impressively by ladies man Mitcham. Waqar giving himself out as the square leg umpire froze at having to give the star player out and possibly missing the remainder of the season due to his reckless actions. The remaining bowlers all suffered as the Pakistani long handle applied some serious shabash spanking. Special mention to Golden Sobers who took 1-21 off 3 having a rare bowl and dislodging some furniture as cowboy number 7 tried to cart him over mid wicket only to hear the dreaded death rattle. Sobers can count himself fortunate to play after originally being selected as 12th man. He was called up at the eleventh hour for Gilo. Doug realised that Sobers was likely to umpire and not wanting to risk being triggered second ball again and seeing another afternoon going to waste, took the safer option of being on call for work. Mitcham behind the stumps for the first time this year took two catches and stumpings a piece. Although, he did spill one off Sembian denying a hat-trick ball in the process. Sembi’s afternoon was not to improve as he later met the same fate as Gilo last week and fell to the dreaded digit of Sobers LBW. The innings ended with them having lots on the board and the sloth Dunne redeeming himself for some earlier incompetent fielding by running out the last PO wicket in the final over – or was it stumped?? A fielding masterclass from the effervescent Jonty Rhodes Saling awaits when training resumes in the coming weeks. The MCC came in for refreshments and were ready for the challenge ahead. Palfrey and Captain of Life were to open the batting. The skippers departing words were ‘What we mustn’t do is loooooooose to them’. Lose to them we did. The Captain soon returned after playing across the line to a very very straight one. Palfrey, who looked in good nick, followed top edging a pull for an easy catch behind the stumps. Sembian came to the crease and was soon dispatched LBW Sobers. It is unlikely that Gilo and Sembian will appear on the same team sheet again as Sobers this season for obvious reasons. Is Sobers the new Nichols? Quizshow host Parry decided he was not up to the task of rescuing the MCC as a low one crept under the bat and dislodged the furniture. Mikey followed in a similar fashion glad that he could get back to his car and finish the tour of Hasbeenburgled that he had started that very morning. Sear and Blades were now at the crease but that soon became Mitcham and Blades. Sear deciding that after leaving a couple, defending a couple and clubbing a couple, that the match was lost and that he would sooner get home to watch the 17.30 at Leicester than see out the remaining overs. 20 overs elapsed and liquid refreshments. Then MCC went back out to the slaughter. Bob making a gritty 9. Blades followed after the third coming of Man Sore who was once again helped to quickly mop up the MCC tail after the short break. Dunne, after being encouraged to get forward decided to neither come nor go and was bowled thru the gate. A lost cause now but the chance to improve the averages for Sobek and Saling. Sobers soon came dashing down the wicket to shake the bowlers hand and fell stumped. Especially unfortunate for Saling who was stranded after looking in good form the previous over. A right mauling for the MCC but there were some positives to come out of the game. A new flicks pitch will arrrive at Pak Orient in time for the competitive fixtures. A new umpire was found to represent the MCC in league matches, it is Sobers’ aim to reduce these games to 20/20 as the fee would work out at a better hourly rate. A big thanks to Des for scoring without a scorebook and supplying the refreshments. Shabash

MCC Man of The Match

DES BRADLEY FOR BRINGING HOME MADE ROLLS AND MR KIPLING CAKES.

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Match Details MCC vs SERENDIP SSC MAY 7

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
MCGREE b 34
PRAMOD lbw 18
SEMBIAN * 20
KHANNA * 11
FURLONGER dnb
MITCHAM dnb
PRYKE dnb
BLADES dnb
MCGREE dnb
SCOTT dnb
GLIG/HAMMO dnb
TOTAL 24.1 Overs 107 for 2

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
SCOTT 6 0 18 0
GLIG 5 0 19 0
BLADES 3 0 10 1
MCGREE 4 1 9 2
PRAMOD 3 0 14 1
SEMBIAN 3 0 6 3
PRYKE 3.1 0 20 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC won this away friendly by 8 wkts. NB: also bowled hammo 2-0-7-1.

Comments on the Match

Munich won the toss and decided to have a bowl in lovely conditions. Knowing that the Forschungsbrauerei was only a cat’s cock away – the lads set about their task with aplomb and gusto. Scottie and Glig took the new ball. Scottie absolutely steamed in like the Antarctic express and bowled nasty despite a sore side. He was well backed up at the other end by Gliggy who teased the batsmen with a devilish line. Both made the opener’s work hard and bowled with menace and intent. As the pressure mounted the SSC went for a suicidal single. An excellent pick up and throw from Stevie and some nice composure from Gliggy in “eventually” taking off the bails saw the MCC strike nice and early. Clearly not content with one piece of decent fielding, shortly afterwards, Stevie “Collingwood” Pryke was at it again. This time swooping in like an eagle looking for a field mouse dinner, he picked up the ball and delivered a mid air throw direct at the stumps. With the timbers splattered the dreaded finger was raised and the SSC were apple crumbling. Magnificent. The tone for the standard of fielding was set and others followed suit. Blades fired one down, which the batsman looked to slap over mid on, and Gliggy took a fine catch going backwards. Not once did any of the fielders doubt that Gliggy would hold on (cough). The stand in skipper was next to take advantage when Pramod running backwards, took a fine catch on the moo corner boundary. Bobby also kept well and took a fine stumping and was unlucky with another stumping effort. Not sure what everyone had for breakfast but the amazing fielding continued. We are clearly reaping the benefit of all the fine fielding practice we have been doing lately. Blades took a beauty on the turn whilst running with a ball that came over his head and into the sun from the bowling of Pramod. Sembian bowled well and got his just rewards with some wickets – Hammo cashed in with a well taken catch at square leg. Sembi followed this up with an Lbw before Angus leapt like a salmon and held onto a snorter at slip. With the SSC reeling, the skipper sent on the secret weapon (Hammo) to bamboozle the opponents and frighten the shit out of Harry who was keeping at the time with a “couple” of leg side deliveries. Hammo, showing lovely shape, let rip with a couple of firecracker’s and clean bowled one of their tail enders. Stevie wrapped up procedures with a well flighted delivery, which hit the middle stump. SSC were all out for 106 after a stonking all round fielding performance. We’ve set the fielding standard so let’s keep it that way! With 40 overs to get the runs, Pramod and Maysie saw off the quick openers and were being outscored by extras at the start of the innings. With their eye now in and having taken the shine off the new ball, they stepped up the pace and Maysie hit a stylish 34 before being bowled. Sembi was next in and batted well with Pramod who spent some invaluable early season time at the crease. Pramod was eventually out for a well crafted 18. Harry’s eyes lit up with the buffet bowling on offer and he set about tucking in and carting the ball to all corners. A solid start by the openers and some decent hitting by Sembi and Harry ensured a comfortable victory by 8 wickets and an extra mass for the boys in the sunshine at the Forschungsbrauerei.

MCC Man of The Match

MCGREE won the toss, 34 and 2 wkts.

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Match Details MCC vs THE ARC SATURDAY MAY 6

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
PARRY 72 Skittleage
LOVELL 27 Gligged
ASIM 74 Furniture
PRAMOD 10 Not Out
SEAR 15 Not Out
SEMBIAN DNB
NAV SHARMA DNB
BLADES DNB
DUNNE DNB
SALING DNB
HOLMES DNB
TOTAL 30 Overs 211 for 3

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
SEAR 3 2 6 2
DUNNE 4 3 4 4
SEMBIAN 3 0 14 0
NAV SHARMA 3 0 15 2
BLADES 3 0 8 1
HOLMES .4 0 2 1
SALING 2 0 13 1

Summary of Match Result

MCC WON BY 137 RUNS

Comments on the Match

THE CHAIRMANS OPENING THOUGHTS The first game at the Hirschanger (MCC home ground in the aptly named English Garden) to play the Arc for the Noah’s Jar. Another beautiful day, sunshine, 20degrees and a barrel of ale kindly donated by Glig and Harry from the Arc. Once it was tapped the Arc team guarded it rather like bees around a honey pot…but it still tasted rather good. The MCC team was too strong for the Arc regulars but, with the first league game against the MICC approaching, it was important for the potential league team players to spend some time in the middle. On the MCC batting front Dr Matt surprised everyone (including his wife) by passing the 49 run hurdle for the very first time since joining the MCC. He was so worried about this magical score that once on 44 he calmly struck a six, before finally falling exhausted for a well made 72. It was almost a hari-kari end to his innings, but he didnt quite impale himself on a stump. Another fine innings was from Asim top scoring with 74, celebrating a welcome return as if he’d never been away. Lovell is still confused about which game he is playing and for the second time this season kicked the ball onto his stumps. We all look forward to the end of the footie season so our captain can sort himself out mentally. On the bowling front Dunne had one particularly awful over and finished up with figures of 4-3-4-4. Bunty Blades was pleased to take one wicket for only 8 runs in 3 overs for his average was fast approaching his IQ. Saling grabbed ( I almost wrote groped) his first wicket of the season and, as every year, Greg Holmes tops the bowling stats.

MCC Man of The Match

Dr Matt Parry exemplary five rules of batting.

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Match Details MCC vs MICC SUNDAY MAY 21 WESTPARK

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
BOB MITCHAM b 5
BUCKETS PUDDS ro 12
WALDROI MIKEY b 55
HARRY b 0
RYAN ct 0
PRYKEY ct 2
LOVELLI b 61
MORGAN b 12
DUNNE ro 0
FINCH * 4
WEATHERALL lbw 0
TOTAL 38 Overs 166 for 10

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
DUNNE 8 1 37 1
MORGAN 4 0 26 0
MIKEY 8 2 24 1
PRYKEY 7 2 30 1
FINCH 5 0 26 1
HARRY 2.4 0 12 1

Summary of Match Result

Mcc lost by 5 wkts.

Comments on the Match

The MCC troops appeared bright and happy to a somewhat miserable cold and wet theatre of cricket that is Westpark. There was some serious doubt as to whether the game would go ahead at all. Wisely though Lovell had ensured his mobile was switched off during the temple hours of darkness pre match to avoid (well meant but annoying) weather related enquiries. However, on match day The Kapitän des Lebens seemed unusually keen – much keener in fact than most of his team mates to get the game underway – making a real transformation of outlook from the days of Mönchengladbach, So a starting time was arranged with a Nath-less MiC team, skippered by Rafiq. Captain Lovell allegedly won his first toss since Steve Waugh retired, and the MCC batted first. Just like as from a miracle, the clouds parted just moments before the scheduled start and much of the game was played in bright Bavarian blazing sunshine. Bob Mitcham and Puddicombe got the proceedings underway. A solid start for the right and left jab combo until Pudds pulled a muscle in his leg (calf). Bob still forced the poor man to run quick singles and it must have been a relief for him when Bob was bowled by a pearler. Relief turned to dismay when Bob stayed on the field to run for him. Not content with getting out just once, he ran poor Phil out with the first ball that he ran for him for a well made 12. A lot of beer needs to be bought to even out that score. The good start was not built on by the MCC, however, and a succession of quick wickets, including Hazza and Saling for a combined total of slightly less than 1 and Pryke for only 2 – unfortunately for him getting caught by the worst fielder in Munich cricket. It left them struggling at 5-35 before Waldroi Mikey Macintosh (55) and captain of life Lovo got together, both hitting half centuries before Mikey (suffering from post temple of doomitis) decided to finally give into tiredness and got himself bowled. Captain Morgan made a quick fire dozen and Dunne, desperately keen to get off the mark ran himself out without scoring. Lovo (61) was finally dismissed by Greg Holmes’ long lost brother, whilst Hazza finally got his revenge on Dave Buggerall for all the times he’d been fired, sending him on his way LBW. Thus ensued the obligatory late order collapse with the innings finishing at a somewhat modest 166 all out in the 38th over, leaving Finch stranded on 4 but with all the best Penny Markt bargains long since bagged over the weekend. Dunne and Captain Morgan took the new ball, but despite troubling the batsmen on occasions were unfortunately unable to make the early inroads required. A wicket to Dunne helped and there was some good fielding from several players, with stand-out Saling (who affected a run out and took 2 catches). There was some good tight bowling from Pryke and Finch, who picked up a wicket each (and were both unlucky to have LBW appeals turned down), who kept the MCC in the game along with Waldroi, who picked up a wicket, enticing an edge to Bob and bowled a very tight second spell. Ultimately it was Greg Holmes’ clone who took the game away at the end for the MiC with some lusty blows. Hazza got a consolation disco wicket, but MiC won quite comfortably in the end by 5 wickets.

MCC Man of The Match

Waldroi Mikey Mcintosh

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Match Details MCC vs PRAGUE TOUR DE CANS JULY 15 AWAY

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
SEMBIAN ct 47
SALING b 4
HOOLIGAN b 18
BOSTOCK ct 6
LOVELL ro 38
FURLONGER b 8
MORGAN ct 5
MCGREE no 8
HAENELT no 2
MITCHAM DNB
TOTAL 35 Overs 163 for 7

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
MORGAN 7 0 46 3
SEMBIAN 7 1 16 1
HOOLIGAN 7 0 34 3
MCGREE 7 0 18 2
SALING 2 0 24 0
FURLONGER 2.2 0 17 0

Summary of Match Result

MCC LOST BY ONE WKT

Comments on the Match

MCC’s first ever tour visit to Prague ended in a nail biting defeat by 1wkt. Playing with 10men due to a late bailage MCC won the toss and elected to take first use of the juicyfacilities. A solid start to the innings with Sembi smoothly showing Septic Saling the way. Shot of the day though for the yank spanking a lovely boundary off his legs behind backward square. No need to run them. He was bowled next over through the gate. Houlsa joined sembi as MCC rattled along. It was something of a surprise when H was bowled through the gate for 18. Kiwi, making his seasonal debut came in at four and looked to sell his farm very dearly. It was about this time that the track started to play some very bizarre tricks and batting became more of a struggle before the innings break. Sembi came off at the innings break to check the scorebook and departed after the interval without adding to his tally of 47 well made runs. Angus joined Kiwi and both had to wear a few as the ball popped. Kiwi having decided to don a lid departed the next over wafting. Lovell joined the cans man who was being pinged at both ends and was ultimately hit on the scone. Having called for the helmet he was bowled next ball. Captain Morgan joined the captain of life and set about rebuilding the innings. Morgan decided against a lid but still looked relatively at ease before spooning one to bring the quiet man to the crease. He kept Lovell company until after they had run a FIVE in the penultimate over. Lovell was run out for a battling 38 in the last over while still trying to get his breath back. Knut scored his 102nd run for the club as the MCC set a challenging total for the home side. After a lovely BBQ at half time courtesy the Prague boys MCC took to the field with bloated bellys. Morgan picked up 3 wickets with his liquorice all s(h)orts while Sembi bowled tight at the other end. Houlsa and Mcgree made other inroads as spin kept the home side in check and had them well on the ropes. Saling took a great catch at cover off a Morgan pie. Kiwi took a nice skier with a confident call. Mcc possibly a bowler short though and with a Prague (dubai) ringer coming in at no11 we didnt quite have the firepower to force the victory. A good game though played in the right spirit despite the vaguaries of the pitch. Thanks to the Prague boys for their hospitality.

MCC Man of The Match

Sembian continues his rich can of form.

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Match Details MCC vs CCB WIDE FEST HOME SATURDAY JULY 22

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
SALING CT 1
LOVELL CT 57
PARRY CT 6
HOLMES B 0
MIKEY B 35
SEAR B 12
BLADES CT 3
MORGAN NO 15
DUNNE NO 22
WEATHERALL DNB
HAMMO DNB
TOTAL 29.1 Overs 193 for 7

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
SEAR 6 0 17 0
DUNNE 2 0 23 0
MIKEY 6 0 26 3
BLADES 6 0 35 0
PARRY 3 0 26 2
MORGAN 6 0 33 2
HAMMO 1 0 21 0

Summary of Match Result

MCC WON BY 3 WKTS WITH 5 BALLS TO SPARE.

Comments on the Match

A scorching day at Munich’s home of cricket the Hirschanger, toss lost, MCC sent into the field to sweat. Some good sharp bowling from Dan without any luck, great spell of 3 step Jamaican rum from Mikey and some good bowling at the end from Captain Morgan. Great diving catch by Blades in close, a catch to Dunne, which according to Blades is the first catch he has ever seen him take in Munich (games, trainings, warm ups etc. included) Under Munich’s interesting definition of umpiring, a rather large addition to the score as usual was extras, putting in a well earned 50. Some loose stuff down leg but also some very interesting calls on good balls outside off stump, the ability to not be able to cut the ball does not make it a wide (something that Lovell and Weatherall tried to inform the opposition about)! Some very close LBW’s not given, standards…. One guy walked so respect to him. So, after 30 overs CCB put on 7/191, setting 6.37 runs an over for the MCC to win. Saling and Lovell opened. Lovell batted most of the game in Lahore style heat notching up a well earned 57 and a hell of lot more if you include the extras. Lovell had one life of sorts when he chopped a ball on from Pradnike on 47, unfortunately for CCB massive front foot no-ball so Lovell had a bit more time at the crease. Also seemed to really upset Pradnike, which was a highlight for many observers. MCC needed someone to hang around with Lovell, which Mikey happily did. Some cracking shots from Mikey – one ball taken from outside off and dispatched to the leg side boundary was a real highlight. Unfortunately we lost Lovell and then Mikey in the same over as they tried to bump up the run rate. Sear and Blades were at the crease; as usual some big swinging from Dan added a few quick runs. Unfortunately both were out leaving Captain Morgan and Dunne at the crease – MCC’s chances not looking too bright with a fat lady spotted frantically loosening up from the pavilion end with circa 11 an over required late doors. In what can only be described as a freak – Dunne and Morgan decided to throw their cans to the wind and somehow got the required runs with 5 balls to spare. 8th wicket partnership added 38 runs off 11 balls. Dunne scored a quick fire 22 off 7 balls with some hefty heaves to the cow area – including a mighty big SIX. Captain Morgan scored 15 off 8, scoring 12 off 4 balls whilst at the crease with Dunne. MCC had snatched victory from the cans of defeat and the cricketing gods were seen selling their prayer mats later that evening in the Chinese Tower. Glig, junior medium pacer, reliably informs that Cpt Morgan and Dunne are now MCC Superstars…

MCC Man of The Match

DUNNE-MORGAN-ALLIANZ SNATCHING VICTORY AT DEATH

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Match Details MCC vs NEWCASTLE RUGBY STAG MEDICS AUGUST 26

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
SALING CT 11
BLADES CT 30
PARRY CT 30
MCINTOSH RETD 103
LOVELL CT 92
FINCH * 7
HOLMES * 1
KHANNA DNB
SOBEK DNB
GLIG DNB
GALE DNB
TOTAL 40 Overs 303 for 5

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
SOBEK 3 0 12 1
FINCH 3 0 12 2
GALE 2 0 6 1
HOLMES 3.5 0 13 4
KHANNA 2 0 11 1
BLADES 2 0 7 0
GLIG 3 0 9 0

Summary of Match Result

MCC WON BY A FEW.

Comments on the Match

A lovely sunny Munich August day began slowly, as testimonial boy Saling turned up early with the captain, clearly trying to curry favour to ensure an early batting spot. Mikey and Bladesy were also there in good time to greet the visitors “Newcastle Medical Rugby Old Boys Stag with strange Drinking Habits”. Gradually a few MCC players started to leisurely amble in. 10 mins before starting time, Tony Blades was starting to steam at the ears as Finch and then Holmes and Khanna arrived in a rush, along with Sobek, Glig (minus balls) and Gale. Des sharpened up his pencils as Saling and Blades padded up and wandered out to face the Geordie bowling attack. A steady partnership ensued until Saling lobbed one up like a baseball player on cheap steroids. Blades and Parry batted on quickly, until they both downed tools and politely left the crease for Lovell and McIntosh to give it the ultra long handle. The captain and Waldroi blasted a 200 run partnership, McIntosh working his way to a quick century, which included 4 sixes in a row, and many big hits with his Brian Lara bat. He gallantly retired after his century, and Mark L. gave away his wicket trying to get his, and let Finch and Holmes drive the total over 300 to what may be a club record. Bowling to defend such a huge total left the captain with many options, including that of sending the likes of Saling, Holmes, Sobek, Khanna and himself in to bowl, and not being beaten around too much as a result. In fact yours truly was at one stage on a hat trick (but sadly not completed) along with Finch, Khanna, Sobek, Gale and Saling sharing out the wickets. The opposition managed to avoid a complete collapse, fighting their way to more than 80 runs for 11 wickets. Still, this must be one of our biggest victories in a while, if not ever, and the second biggest partnership with Lovell and McIntosh’s effort. Visiting team’s Man of the Match award went to McIntosh for his awesome demolition of their bowling attack. Immediately following the match, they issued fines to the worst offenders, including the visiting groom for getting out twice to the same ‘also bowled’ bowler. A good day to be playing cricket in the English garden, which was topped off by a cold Hofbräu in the Chinese Tower, and a big farewell party for Ryan Saling, Ian Mitcham and Matt Parry. I also will be signing off soon, following Dr Parry to the home of cricket. Your honest reporter, Greg Holmes

MCC Man of The Match

MIKEY WALDROI WADDERS MCINTOSH

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Match Details MCC vs Munich Roos October 7

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Algar no 119
Bostock lbw 2
Wilson st 31
Dunne b 0
Gligorov ct 14
Lepani b 0
Blades * 5
Lovell DNB
Gale DNB
Furlonger DNB
Bradley DNB
TOTAL 30 Overs 193 for 6

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Wilson 6 0 22 0
Dunne 2 0 8 0
Gligorov 3 1 9 2
Blades 4 0 16 3
Gale 2.2 0 15 1
Lepani 3 0 13 1
Algar 2 0 4 3

Summary of Match Result

Mcc won last game of season by 105 runs

Comments on the Match

Mcc’s final bout of the season at a very moist Hirschanger. All was not well at scheduled start time with half the MCC team still in their chariots presuming the game was off. The batting order was thus very easy to clarify for Captain Lovell who along with the opposition was ever so keen to end the season in an exemplary fashion and get the game on. Lovell lost the toss for the 19th time this season and the MCC were asked to bat with a Kiwi ram rooter top three of Beau stock, Algar the processor and newboy beard Wilson. Kiwi was soon adjudged lbw to a very straight ball from around the wicket. He was very quiet in the umpire’s pub later on that evening discussing the lbw law at length with anyone who cared to listen. Algar, in only his second outing of the season, treated the bad ball with contempt and kept out the good ones with aplomb. Never looking in much trouble throughout his 30over vigil at the crease. He found the boundary rope at will and gorged himself frenziedly at the buffet bar. Finishing on a splendid unbeaten 119. Very pleasant to watch – even in the p1ssing rain. Wilson, in his debut, provided useful support before being stumped. Glig’s batting was not as detrimental as his behaviour the previous day. Mcc closed on a more than useful 193 off the agreed 30overs. After no tea and a trip to Lehel to do some grocery shopping MCC suddenly went out to bat in superb sunshine. Suddenly too almost with a full complement of players/individuals after the seedy Munich bars had closed up for their hours cleaning. The opposition including a very quiet opener started off very well in pursuit of 6.5 runs an over. Lebbo’s catch off Blades bowling to remove Mcgree opened the floodgates. After the shop steward left it was one out all out as the Roos subsided to 88 in quick time. This was useful as the football kicked off soon after so the rabble descended on another seedy bar to put the season to bed.

MCC Man of The Match

Algar unbeaten ton and 3 billig wkts.

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Match Details MCC vs ROOS INVITATION ELEVEN – JULY 14

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
Blades b 0
Morgan b 16
Sobek ct 24
Clare ro 11
Cross st 28
Glig b 6
Weston ct 0
Lovell ct 25
Dunne no 55
Weatherall no 7
Bradley dnb
TOTAL 35 Overs 191 for 8

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W
Dunne 3 0 12 0
Glig 7 0 53 1
Blades 7 0 45 1
Clare 5 2 25 2
Weston 5.5 1 22 1
Sobek 2 0 7 1
Morgan 2 0 13 0

Summary of Match Result

MCC LOST BY 4 WKTS.

Comments on the Match

Sobek always scores runs at no3. Dunne scored his maiden 50 with some lusty hitting late doors. Mcc totalled a challenging total 191 off 35. Palfrey 3-18 and Harry taking 2-22 for the Roos. In reply ringer Di Perna outstayed his welcome and quickly took the game away from MCC with some large blows in his 83. Ringer Mitch Ryan then finished the game off with 36* as the Roos ran out 4 wkt winners in a good contest.

MCC Man of The Match

MOM RINGER RICH DE P. 83 and 2 catches 1 stumping.

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Match Details MCC vs

MCC Performers

Batsman
;
TOTAL Overs for

MCC Bowler
Bowler O M R W

Summary of Match Result

Comments on the Match

MCC Man of The Match

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Zuoz tour 2006

It was a happy tour despite…
1. Germany beating Sweden to progress again in the world cup.
2. England playing like lepers once again v the mighty Ecuador.
3. Leaving the scorebook behind on my sofa in Munich. Basics.
4. Leaving the team kit bag in the trunk at the ground. Basics.
5. Gale not being able to afford any whites since his move to Switzerland
6. Saling not being able to afford any decent music on his ipod
7. Bob shaving off his beard for zuoz 2006.
8. The German border police being every so friendly.
9. Gligorov early schoolboy error in forgetting his passport and forcing a serious autobahn uturn. Basics.
10. A Swiss gardening drought which forced blades into tequila usage.
11. Sembi not knowing for a moment which bat to score his 200 plus tournament runs with.
12. Knut being a serious polish football fan. POD-OL-SKI & Miroslav.
13. Des, Dunne, gilo and Knut loving their journey to chur to watch the England game on the way back.
14. Not being able to find any proper food after Friday’s journey till well after midnight.
15. Lovell choosing a poor Bruce Springsteen song on the ipod journey down.
16. Hazza not quite being able to perfect the 2006 fire poke stabs as he might wish.
17. Des falling over whilst moving position during umpiring stint.
18. Des shamelessly triggering schoolboys and veterans alike – when the Richter says you’re out, you’re out.
19. Des and gilo being in danger of arrest for over celebration after beckhams winning goal v Ecuador.
20. Dunnes jail baiting being cut rudely short by a lairy man looking for skunk.
21. mcc fielding like lepers in tropical conditions v Winterthur.
22. The nasty chucking storms in the final. w@nkers.
23. Gale attempting to destroy McGree in a pre final nocturnal training session with only marginal success.
24. Saling driving like Mario andretti on way down after Chinese mista mista jet lag – ‘’its gonna get tight’’ – whilst suffering from bird flu.
25. Palfrey not scoring enough runs and permanently bumming tobacco of some sort.
26. Nothing too interesting or scandalous happening. No street markets. No roger moores. No arrests. No one even pulled a fat bird. Or pulled at all, for that matter. What are we doing wrong?
27. Mikey waldroi bailing for no apparent reason at the last minute and not telling anyone.
28. The chairman bringing gopping, allegedly tepid forschungsbrauerei beer and later demanding payment.
29. Former VC selling off the pride of augustiner to stray opposition.
30. Blades doing wonders for oz/saffer relations whilst spectating during final. But it cost him two augustiner.
31. Laws clearly stating that one is meant to bowl with a straight arm.
32. Gilo being far too pissed too concentrate on scoring v Winterthur and having to be relieved by hazza.
33. General lack of eggs and sausages in the improved convict accommodation.
34. Dunne’s eating habits being regularly questioned.
35. Swiss ale being very poor froth.
36. Poor Alan border controls on trip down.
37. Insufficient lemons to spray on team schnitzel sat pm.
38. Lack of proper good manners, decency and decorum when dealing with the dorta’s barman/barwoman/dj.
39. Palfrey failing to implement promised Saturday team warm up session.
40. Chairman’s poor rendition of Oliver Cromwell song.
41. Gligs shyness when revealing latest sexploits at inopportune moments.
42. Too raucous antipodean behaviour and excessive beer intake from lower order while attempting to chase down 170odd to win v Winterthur and reach final.
43. Gilo always being late because of commuting issues on Lego set train from st Moritz to ground.
44. Saling’s chicken legs which do not bruise properly.
45. Blades only injuring his shoulder, NAD and side during the tour.
46. Palfrey attempting to imbibe all the Richter’s ale from well. Let alone my crate.
46. Palfrey attempting to imbibe all the Richter’s ale from well. Let alone my crate.
47. Team meal being hijacked by 13yo girls seeking father figures and role models. Those father figures later turned on them by questioning their weight, smoking habits and for simply not knowing where the action was.

The following eight European teams competed in the 2006 Zuoz international cricket festival.
Munich cc (2nd)
Basel cc (winners)
Zuoz Old boys
Lodi cc
Milan cc
Winterthur
Royal Zürich cc
Lyceum Alpinum

Zuoz Cricket Festival 2006.
24th and 25th of June 2006
Tournament Rules.
· The draw will be held at 9.15 on Saturday 24th.
· The tournament starts promptly on Saturday at 9.30 am.
· All matches will be of 30 overs per innings, with a maximum of 6 overs per bowler.
· The four winning teams from the Saturday morning will go through to the winners’ competition for positions 1-4 on Saturday afternoon and Sunday. The losing teams from Saturday morning play off for positions 5-8.
· The games on Sunday will start at 10.00am, except for the final which will start at 10.30am.
· Both sides should provide a scorer.
· The fielding side provides their own ball.
· No spiked shoes are to be worn on the cricket pitches.
· If there are any queries or suggestions regarding the tournament please contact me on (+41) 786 548 945.
George Campbell,
Games Master.
Round 1 MCC V Lodi

– Saturday sparrow
Palfrey: 32 Runs 2.0 – 0 – 3 – 2 (yes, 3wkts, 2 runs)
Lovell: 44
Appavu: 73 Runs 1.0 – 0 – 0 – 2
Gale: 8 Runs 6.0 – 1 – 3 – 17
Khanna: 8 Runs 2.3 – 0 – 1 – 10 1 catch
Blades: 11 Runs 3.0 – 0 – 0 – 16
Giles: 8* Runs 2 catches
Haenelt: 0*
McGree: DNB 4.0 – 0 – 2 – 19 1 catch
Dunne: DNB 4.0 – 0 – 0 – 10
Saling: DNB 1 stumping
MCC 221 for 6, Lodi 84 for 10
Semi final v Winterthur

– Saturday late doors
Palfrey: 21 Runs 2.0 – 0 – 0 – 13
Khanna: 13 Runs 1 catch
Appavu: 83* Runs 6.0 – 0 – 0 – 27
McGree: 39* Runs 6.0 – 0 – 0 – 41 1 catch
Gligorov: DNB 6.0 – 0 – 2 – 22
Blades: DNB 3.0 – 0 – 0 – 28
Gale: DNB 5.0 – 1 – 0 – 19
Dunne: DNB 2.0 – 0 – 0 – 18
Saling: DNB
Mitcham: DNB
Lovell: DNB
Winterthur 173 for 3, MCC 177 for 2
Final V Basel Fawlty

– Sunday sparrow
Palfrey: 14 Runs 5.5 – 1 – 0 – 46
McGree: 16 Runs 5.0 – 1 – 2 – 32
Appavu: 58 Runs 4.0 – 0 – 1 – 30 1 catch
Lovell: 14 Runs 1 catch (3 drops).
Gale: 21 Runs 3.0 – 0 – 0 – 20
Khanna: 16
Mitcham: 1
Giles: 1
Dunne: 8* Runs 1.0 – 0 – 0 – 10
Gligorov: 0 Runs 6.0 – 0 – 1 – 31 1 catch
Saling: 0 Quack quack . Golden Boy
MCC 172 for 10, Basel Fawlty 174 for 4
Pods
Brief cricket summary
First up were the Milanese Tifosi Azzuri Squadra Catenaccio Calcio Totti from Lodi. Lovell won a toss and made early hay with a quickfire 44. A still visibly faced Palfresi made 32 whilst Sembi took advantage of a drop to top score with 73. Mcc filled their touring boots to fire 221-6 in their 30overs. In reply the Italians were never really in it as Mcc fielded well early doors – holding all their catches and a splendid run out by the quiet man the highlight.
In the semi MCC took on local matador Winterthur. Mcc were asked to field first in tropical conditions. Innings got off to a less than perfect start with 5 NB’S from the Palfreyman. Glig was the pick of the bowlers with 2-22 from his spell as the Swiss team knocked up 173-3 aided by some pretty village fielding as MCC wilted in the stifling mountainesque heat. In reply MCC got off to a steady start and were up with the run rate at 50odd for 2. Sembi was then joined by Mcgree to form a match winning partnership as MCC cruised home by 8 wkts with 9+ overs in hand.
The final Sunday v Basel with the MCC troops surprisingly well rested after a short evening the night before – apart from Mcgree and Alan of course.
MCC were asked to bat first with the top order all getting themselves in. Alas only Sembi only went on top scoring again with another half century. MCC closed on 172 possibly 30odd runs light. In reply Basel struggled early up against Glig and Mcgree. A couple of tough half chances went down and the game slowly but surely slipped away. Basel won comfortably in the end by 6 wkts.
An enjoyable tour – thanks for the memories.