| The highlight of Poulton
Cricket Week 2007 - a club XI taking on the might of the Lashings XI -
was sadly abandoned as the heavens opened several times throughout what
turned into a frustrating day for both players and spectators alike.
Fortunately, Henry Olonga was on hand to
keep the expectant crowd entertained as he took to the stage and showed
his skills with the microphone. The Zimbabwean ex-international
started with two self-penned songs that paid poignant tribute to the
troubles in his homeland before ending with a stirring rendition of
Nessun Dorma that was greeted with a standing ovation.
Further entertainment was provided by
Lashings' duo of MCs, injecting much humour into proceedings that
included an auction of sporting and other memorabilia, raffle and
question and answer session with several star names. |
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Among those offering a fascinating and
often hilarious insight into their lives as professional cricketers were
Phil Defreitas, Alvin Kallicharran, Gordon Greenidge, Greg Blewett and
Chris Harris. Also in the squad
were the likes of Vasbert Drakes, Chris Cairns, Rashid Latif, Marvan
Atapattu, Nantie Hayward, Hashim Amla and Tino Best, who all made for
entertaining guests during the 3-course dinner.
Finally, as the rain briefly subsided,
there was just time for a team photo before the Lashings team were on
their way and the Poulton players were left wondering what could have
been, although probably quite glad that they hadn't had to face a Tino
Best 90-mph snorter or spent long hours chasing leather. |
