For many, the clocks going forward is one of the best things to happen in the year. It is a sign that summer is on its way. Spring is underway, with lambs running free in the fields and daffodils growing in numbers that would make Glamorgan crowds look small.
It is also an indication that the cricket season is just
around the corner. The evenings are lighter, and everyone is starting to get
their daily dose of vitamin d.
It is still too cold for those attending preseason
friendlies to sit outside for six hours without several layers and a hot drink
to hand, but it is a sacrifice worth making. We see the players juggling hand warmers,
and woolly hats are in evidence.
I have been to many early-season games; there was a chilly game
at Trent Bridge, where I first saw Chris Liddle in action for Leicestershire
from the pavilion's comfort.
The university matches against the counties are always an
excellent chance to see players about to emerge and flourish or slip into
obscurity. I was happy to see Jame Bracey included in the England bubble last
season and perform well in one of the warm-up games.
In a game against Lancashire for Loughborough University, he
looks assured with the gloves. While I don't want to heap pressure on a young
player, there is only one wicket-keeper who I have seen that good at that age,
and he was also on the books at Gloucestershire. Chris Read did all right in
his career, and there is no reason why Bracy can't follow in those footsteps.
There are obvious reasons why we won't be at the early games
this season, but once we can be at the ground right next to the action, I will
be there, and I'm sure you will be as well.
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