The Start of the Cricket Season!

Yesterday saw the start of the junior cricket season in Auckland. So we headed off to the match at 12.30 armed with chairs, drinks and a picnic ready to watch Harry play his first cricket match in New Zealand. The weather was close to perfect, blue skies, the sun was shining and there was just a slight breeze.

Back in the UK Harry was playing 20 over games, this one was 45 overs, I think he was a bit worried about the length of the game and I was certainly worried my attention span for cricket wouldn't last for 90 overs!

Harry's team batted first and scored 199 runs, although at 11th man Harry didn't get to bat. Over here junior cricket seems to be a little more serious than I remember it being at home. Players are either designated as batters or bowlers. Harry's now a bowler hence being so far down the batting order. They also train twice a week and are advised to go for a run in between!

After a short break the second innings began with Harry's team fielding. The opposition was all out for 73 runs. So first game over with a win, Harry bowled pretty well, taking his first kiwi wicket and making his mum proud.

The game was played on the local colleges sports field and bacon sandwiches, cups of tea or a bar were sadly missing. However to make up for that was the location of the cricket field. I thought some of the cricket pitches at home were set in the most beautiful locations but this was something else (see the photos.)

I just about managed to stick it out for my first 45 over match!

For any regular blog readers sorry I've been a bit quiet recently, I can give no other excuse than I've been feeling a bit sorry for myself. I love this place but it's so hard being so far away from friends, family and familiar things. Back on track for now though!