SPIRIT OF CRICKET GLOBAL CHALLENGE - HKCC team at - The Hong Kong Cricket Club
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www.hkcc.org THE HONG KONG CRICKET CLUB March 2018
HKCC team at...
SPIRIT OF CRICKET
GLOBAL CHALLENGE
Sydney, Australia, 7-14 January 2018
New
Opening Times
HKCC SPORTS SHOP
Open every day
Monday to Friday
1200 to 2000
Saturday, Sunday
0800 to 2000
Public Holiday
1000 to 2000
Enquiry: 3511 8631
email: thesportshop@hkcc.org
Sportswear, Equipment & Accessories
of all kinds – for Adults and Children
Mosquito repellant, Sunscreens,
Swimming Accessories - Goggles / Nappies
Squash and Tennis Ball -
available at the Pool Counter
The Hong Kong Cricket Club
137 Wong Nai Chung Gap Road, Hong Kong
Tel: 2574 6266, 3511 8668
Fax: 3511 8630
Contents March 2018
email: hkcc@hkcc.org Web: www.hkcc.org
Patron - Mike Gatting, OBE
President - Christopher D. Pratt, CBE
GENERAL COMMITTEE
Chairman - J B Callow
SPIRIT OF CRICKET
General Committee Members
S. M. Y. Chan
GLOBAL CHALLENGE
M. S. Deayton
A. Gerrard
D. A. Hewitt
Penelope Hubbard-Brown
G. D. Lamplough
M. Y. Lee On the Road to Mandalong
16
B. C. W. Poon
Joanne Purcell
S. P. Robson
Debbie See
T. K. Tully
MANAGEMENT & STAFF
General Manager
2-10 Messages & Food & Beverage News
Kieran Hale (3511 8666)
General Information
44 Clubhouse
Secretary / Assistant General Manager 48 Dot Cod
Clara Li (3511 8688) Sports News
Financial Controller
Billy Lau (3511 8655) 12 Cricket Social
Head Sommelier 26 Rugby 50 Forthcoming Events
Steven Ma (3511 8611) 27 Golf
F&B Hotline 54 Pictorials – Burns Night 2018
(3511 8621)
28 Hockey
Members Service Manager
30 Netball
Wendy Tam (3511 8677) 34 Squash Features
Events Hotline 36 Tennis 56 Pet Help
(3511 8678) 41 Gym News 58 Staff News
Sports & Recreation Manager 42 Table Tennis 60 The Nutcracker Army
Samson Lam (3511 8614)
Human Resources Manager
Teresa Lam (3511 8615)
Executive Chef
Simon Evans (3511 8663)
Executive Chef, Chinese Cuisine
Robert Tam (3511 8623)
House Operations Manager
Simon Lai (3511 8622)
Assistant Ground Manager
Nathan Law (3511 8600)
Membership Secretary
Clara Hung (3511 8616)
Video Club
Liza Valdejueza (3511 8697)
GENERAL ENQUIRIES 12
Race Box Bookings
Events Department (3511 8676) Premier League T20 Champions
Daily until 10pm (3511 8668)
Long Room (3511 8618)
Spinners (3511 8617)
The Willow Room (3511 8638)
Chater Tavern (3511 8624)
Swimming Pool (3511 8603)
The Pinkun Editor
Easter Mini Carnival
Julie Johnson (3511 8633)
e-mail: pinkun@hkcc.org Sunday 1 April
Design and Printing
The Green Pagoda Press Ltd.
Printed on MIX,
FSC™ certified paper A soft copy of the March Pinkun 2018 is now available for downloading on www.hkcc.org
with soy ink
If Members do not wish to receive a hard copy of The Pinkun, please notify us by clicking on hkcc@hkcc.org
GENERAL INFORMATION
Manager’s Notes
Celebratory Gift!
At the time of writing, the MasterPlan Phase One
works are in the final stages of completion - the
interior fitting-out works.
As such, we are working towards all new facilities
being available at the end of March 2018.
The new facilities, including the extension of the
Willow Room (with VIP Room), 1/F Boundary Bar,
2/F Long Room and additional terrace area of the
Chater Tavern will provide excellent new dining and
entertainment opportunities as well as spectacular
viewing over the cricket ground and beyond.
Following the annual pool maintenance programme,
Thank you all so much for the generosity shown to our the new routing to the Swimming Pool Complex via
staff through the Lai See fund. This is a wonderful show Sportsman’s Bar will be opened, providing a safer and
of support and was very much appreciated at the recent more efficient route between facilities. The current
Annual Staff Party. entrance via the driveway will be no longer in use.
I am sure you are all aware of the progress of the As announced by the Chairman in his December 2017
MasterPlan project. As we move towards completion, I am letter, to celebrate the forthcoming completion and
delighted to refer you to the update below. In conjunction opening of the new facilities, the General Committee
with the completion, please note the reviewed opening has approved a ‘Celebratory Gift’; a Food and Beverage
hours for our established and new outlets. ‘Cash coupon’ to the total value of HK$1,000.- for
each Membership Account so that Members and their
At the time of writing, as we struggle through this oddly families can experience and enjoy our new facilities.
boreal climate, I am delighted to announce the first notion
of summer in that, once again, the Club has secured the Offer will be valid from MARCH to DECEMBER
Lord’s Box for the first two days of the summer Test 2018
against India, 9th and 10th August. Whilst there has been
a slight increase in the price this year, the tickets remain • Long Room Coupon - $500:
subsidised by the Club and will be offered on a first come- Redeem on one occasion only when your
first served basis. Please contact hkcc@hkcc.org for details. F & B spend is over HK$500.-.
I am also pleased to announce the preparation for the • Boundary Bar Coupon - $200:
Annual Garden Party 2018 is well underway. This is the
Redeem on one occasion only when your
Club’s biggest family outdoor event with five hours of
F & B spend is over HK$200.-
food, drink and entertainment, including games booths,
cultural counters, D-I-Y stalls, and much more. • Other F & B Outlets Coupon - $300:
I will take this opportunity to congratulate our Premier Redeem on one occasion only when your
Cricket Team, under the captaincy of Isaac Poole and the F & B spend is over HK$300.- in any one of the
guidance of Head Coach, Craig Wright, for their recent outlets including – Willow Room, Spinners,
success in winning the Premiership title for 2017-2018. Sportsman’s Bar, Chater Tavern or Pool Café.
Hopefully, more silverware will follow as we prepare to
In order to be environmentally friendly, physical
close out on another sporting season.
coupons will not be issued. Our Accounts Department
And finally, an update on our adopted dog, ‘Fielder’ - will apply the above offers to your statement of
whilst she has recently been diagnosed as virtually blind account after your visits to the specified F & B Outlets.
in both eyes, she is otherwise recovering well and in a far
You don’t need to do anything, just enjoy the new
better place this year than she was last!
facilities!
We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment to
Kieran Hale
animals.” - Immanuel Kant
A child can learn a lot from a dog, loyalty, fidelity,
perseverance, and the importance of turning around
three times before lying down.” - Robert Benchley
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
2
Clubhouse Opening Hours: 0630 to midnight
(For all F&B Enquiries email fnb@hkcc.org) Swimming Pool Complex 0700 to 2100
Squash Courts Complex Daily 0730 to 2230
NEW OUTLETS Sports Changing Rooms Daily 0700 to 2300
SPORTS ANNEXE BUILDING
Monday – Closed
Tuesday to Saturday 1830 to 2300 2nd Floor:
Sunday & Public Holiday Sports Desk Daily 0730 to 2300
Lunch 1100 to 1500 Enquiry: 3511 8698
Dinner 1830 to 2300
Gymnasium Daily 0630 to 2200
Monday to Friday 1600 to 2300 Children’s Playroom Daily 0900 to 2100
Saturday Sunday & Public Holiday
1100 to 2300 Golf Simulator Daily 0900 to 2200
Snooker Daily 1100 to 2300
Lunch: Ten Pin Bowling Alley Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday,
Monday to Saturday Sunday, Public Holiday 1000 to 2200
1200 to 1500 (The last order is 1415) Monday & Wednesday 1400 to 2200
Sunday & Public Holiday
1100 to 1245 (The last order is 1230) Video & DVD Library Weekday 1300 to 2000
1300 to 1500 (The last order is 1445) Saturday, Sunday 1100 to 1900
Dinner: Daily 1800 to 2300 Public Holiday 1200 to 1800
(The last order is 2215) 3rd Floor:
Reservations: 3511 8638
Cricket Centre Daily 0830 to 2230
Sports Hall Daily 0830 to 2230
Daily 0730 to 2200
Roof Top:
The last food order is 2130
SAB Tennis Courts Daily 0700 to 2300
HKCC SPORTS SHOP Open every day
Monday to Friday Monday to Friday 1200 to 2000
1600 to 2300 Saturday, Sunday
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday 0800 to 2000
0830 to 2300 Public Hoilday
The last food order is 2230
1000 to 2000
Enquiry: 3511 8631
Monday to Thursday email: thesportshop@hkcc.org
1130 to midnight
Friday & Saturday
& Day Before Public Holiday
1130 to 0100
Sunday & Public Holiday
0900 to midnight
The last food order is 2230
WINE CELLAR Monday to Friday 1700-2100
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday
1200-2000 Basement, Landmark Prince’s
10 Chater Road, Central
Hong Kong
Monday to Thursday 1000 to 1900
Friday 1000 to 2100 Tel: (852) 2810 6988
Saturday, Sunday & Fax: (852) 2810 6877
Public Holiday 0800 to 2100 Email: dotcod@hkcc.org
The last food order is 2030 Website: www.dotcod.com
Opening Hours:
Annexe Bar Monday to Saturday
Monday to Friday 1200 to 2000 0730 to 2330
Pantone Process Cyan C The last food order is 1930
Pantone 274C Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday Sunday & Public Holiday closed
0830 to 2000 (except Mother’s Day,
0830 to 0930 Beverage Service only Christmas Eve & Christmas Day)
Pantone 187C THE PINKUN | March | 2018
3
85% Pantone Process Black C
Mike D. Swift
M
ike Swift passed away on 8th January from
throat cancer. We had lost touch with Mike
since he left Hong Kong over 10 years ago
but understand his last years were not his
best. A group of his former team mates gathered in the
Top Bar on 23rd January to commemorate and remember
an extraordinary fella with a beaming smile and a huge
appetite for life. Stories abound about him, many of them
are not suitable for print but here is a brief resume as seen
from The Gap.
Michael Swift (Swifty, Swiftingtons, Mike ) was a talented
cricketer, a swashbuckling batter with a sublime off drive;
he could be brilliant in the field with a rifle-like throw
and was like lightning between the wickets and at cover.
He played for Nomads, Wanderers (and Scorpions) and, of
course, HKCC on tour. He also won several national caps
representing Hong Kong. appetite for adventure came to the fore. He did perhaps
meet his match on occasions but whether in the form
Mike started playing regularly for the Wanderers and of the free spirits temping at the Victoria Falls Bungee
Nomads in the early eighties and was an integral part of company throwing gullible tourists and HKCC cricketers
those teams by 1984 and, for over a decade under some off the Victoria Falls bridge, the crafty croupiers at the
legendary skippers....including Wanderers Alfie Noakes, local casino or the local Abalone salesmen, they will
Bryan Hemshall, Shredsby, Gatsby, Mike Peck and Rowan always remember Swifty.
McGregor. In the words of Gatsby ….
Off the field, Mike quit his job doing voice overs for
“A cavalier swashbuckling left hand bat at 4, 5 or 6 who movies and tv in the late eighties and set up Yeltsins Bar
could win a match alone. His fielding was electric and he in Lan Kwai Fong with fellow Wanderer and Nomad
could throw flat from almost any boundary. He joined the Mike Walsh (Shredsby) . A great success (at least for some
Wanderers as a lad and left them even more so....... Father years….), the dynamic duo set up another (the Flying Pig)
Don, a Prof at HKU and the fittest man alive was a Fairies in Wanchai. Shredsby, who had to put up with much of
stalwart who he met twice a year on Sundays. Mum Enid, Swifty’s eccentricities (the brilliant, good and not so good)
often present minding a gin & tonic on derby days! remembers his extraordinary story-telling ability….
Fluent in Cantonese, our Swiftingtons was often heard in “Perhaps one which illustrates how he could always come up
voice overs at the movies, radio and on television. A nocturnal with an answer for anything was one occasion where we were
young journeyman of the highest order, he experienced all the due to meet in town quite late on a Saturday evening after a
delights of the HK 80s and early 90s entertainment scene. His Nomads’ game to discuss some bar business or other. As usual
flamboyant background coupled with the careful guidance we had a ‘couple’ (or so) after the game before heading for the
and tutelage of his Wanderers skippers and senior team mates: showers and off down town. I was in Lan Kwai Fong waiting
Plod, Smudge, The Silver Fox, Rothwell, Dipper, Peckie and for some considerable time before he eventually showed up.
Harold H Pitchfork all take some credit for helping create “Where the heck have you been?” I asked. Sorry, he said but
quite a colourful young character!” I got involved in a traffic accident on my way down. “What
On Saturdays, Mike played for the Nomads and played happened this time?” ask I, to be met with the response – Well
in a number of Championship winning sides starting it wasn’t my fault before you start. You may reason, and
with 1984. He joined the Scorpions when the Wanderers correctly infer from this that this was not the first shunt Mike
disbanded in 1996 and settled in immediately. Mike’s had been involved in. OK, I say, who, or what, did you hit
humour, generosity and attacking verve ensured he fitted this time” Answer – “A tram!!”
into the Scorpions seamlessly. Now even by Swifty’s driving standards that was quite an
Swifty was perhaps most in his element on the Club tours achievement!! How on earth did you manage to hit a bloody
and never more so than on the trips to southern Africa tram of all things asks Shredsby. Answer – I told you it wasn’t
in ‘96 and ‘98. Mike had not seen anything like it and my fault – it swerved!!!”
Africa had certainly not seen anything quite like him.
He was a legendary tourist where his huge stamina and
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
4
Very few of us knew what Swifty got up to really during Swifty fell in love with Vian in the late nineties and
weekdays. Our very own Arthur Daly wheeler dealer….we moved back to Malaysia and then UK. They split their
occasionally heard of some incredible trade of coffee beans time between UK and Malaysia and had a lovely daughter
or abalone…….letters of credit were Swifty’s speciality Isabella. Very sadly Mike and Vian separated a few years
but the details and the other participants were usually a ago and Mike returned to Malaysia leaving Vian and Bella
mystery. in the UK with Mike’s mother Enid. Mike’s last years were
spent off the radar of family and old friends alike. A very
For many years Swifty lived in Macau and was a regular sad ending to an extraordinary life…….but Swifty will be
at Macau golf course. One New Year, his driving remembered at the Gap most of all for his talents on and
ability again came under scrutiny when playing in the off the field and his huge zest for life and adventure.
infamous New Year’s Day tournament there…. after some
considerable consumption of the amber (and various RIP Swifty !
other) nectar he almost drove his buggy off the cliff,
only saved because he drove straight into the only tree in
sight….
David L. Smith, aka ‘Badger’
U
ntil the recent alterations, there
was a plaque inscribed “Badger’s
Corner” attached to the last
column of the bar in the Chater
Tavern, adjacent to the door to the verandah.
A Member for many years, Dave Smith
traditionally occupied this area of the bar, and
from his stool, he was disposed to offer advice
and wisdom to all who cared to listen.
He earned the name ‘Badger’ as a result of an
incident during an HKCC cricket tour of the
West Country in 1978 or so. After one particular Dave (back row far right) relaxing with HKCC team
match against a local side, the players had repaired in Manila, 1970s.
to a nearby pub for refreshment, and at one point,
having left briefly, Dave hurried back into the
bar, claiming to have spotted a badger in the earned reputation. He joined the Cricket Club
toilet, and insisted that team members – who were in 1970 and, apart from being seen umpiring on
coincidentally drinking Badger Ales at the time grounds all over Hong Kong, he was a member
- should go view it for themselves. Perhaps not of the HKCC’s lawn bowls team, which featured
surprisingly, they found that it had disappeared - prominently in the HKLBA First Division in the
but the name stuck! 70s.
Dave arrived in Hong Kong around 1960, and After leaving for retirement in the UK in the early
occupied a number of executive positions in 90s, he became the London Correspondent for
Government over the years, eventually retiring The Pinkun for a short while.
as a Chief Executive Officer in the RHKPF.
He initially played cricket for Centaurs, but Dave passed away in London on 2nd January
eventually hung up his boots in favour of this year. Memories of his outgoing personality
becoming a qualified umpire in the services of the still linger amongst older Members. We send our
Cricket Association, for which he gained a well- deepest condolences to his family.
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
5
J. Marcus Smith
N
ews has reached us recently
of the tragic death in a traffic
accident in the US – not his
fault – of J. Marcus Smith.
Marcus arrived in HK in 1968 to join the
legal firm of which your correspondent was
a part. Those were the days when recruits
for the Optimists and Scorpions (the
Wanderers were just twinkle in the eye of
Stuart Barnes) were waylaid at Kai Tak and
when Marcus presented his credentials –
both as a cricketer, Oxford Authentics, and
a passionate Spurs supporter (having spent
his years at Oxford University travelling to
every Spurs game both home and away!) –
he was clearly an Optimist Candidate and
was duly drafted into the side for the 68/69
season. A polished and elegant top order
batsman, but with no claim to bowling
and not a lot to fielding! He continued to
play for the Club, the Optimists and, on
occasion, the “Colony”, right through and on to
eventually (after retirement) moved to the US
the move to the Gap. He represented HKCC at
with his lovely second wife Patti (sadly, badly
Squash – being part of the “famous” 1970 League
injured in the selfsame accident and presently
team that went through the season undefeated
undergoing extensive surgery). Marcus became a
and played a bit of tennis – notably with your
very proficient skier – why wouldn’t you, living
correspondent on Xmas day at HKCC in 1970
in Colorado?! – and was a devout Christian and
when no better offer materialised!
devoted father to daughter, Prudence. Revered by
all as a nice and gentle man.
An extremely competent lawyer, Marcus departed
HK for the US in 1981 for a couple of years
May he rest in peace
and then UK, Bermuda (working initially for
Applebys – much in the News recently – until
Peter Davies
he saw the light of day), back to the UK and
Membership News
New Nominee Members Ng Kien Man Departures
George Finch L. Stevenson R. Ferrier
Hui Shung Hin, Edward Ms. A. Lynch
Li Chak, William Ordinary Member
Liew Thow Jiun, Kenneth L. Ginnivan Resignations
John Martin Lovell W.H.J. Chen
Anita Mishra New Sporting Member C.A. Williams
Elliot Scrivener
New Subscriber Members Resignations - Nominee
Co Jocson Sia New Junior Sporting Member Ambrose Hau
Chen Wai Man, Evan Elliott Suett E. Heldner
Chan Man Yee, Evelyn P.V. Rao
Cheung Chi Kong Elite Youth Sporting Member P.J. Warnes
Mrs. E. Lee Miss M. Hui Eric Wong
T. Menogue
Liu Kai Yuen, Rhett Returned
Lau Man Yee, Joyce T. Stevens
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
6
HKCC……… HELPING THE COMMUNITY
Hok Shan School – Rugby 2018
The HKCC ‘Hok Shan School’ 2018 Rugby Programme
commenced in January, led by head coach Lawton Yau.
We were glad to have three classes this term with P.1A,
P.1B and P.1C students. We continue to input different
fun games and drills for the students by focusing on four
basic areas: passing, running, defending and attacking.
All 50 energetic students enjoyed the 5-week programme
and most of them had their first experience of Rugby
with coach Lawton.
We are looking forward to the next Rugby Programme
with these youngsters.
Lawton Yau
National Cricket Teams
The Club continues to support the HK National Men’s, Women’s and Youth Squad by providing
training venues (Cricket Centre for Excellence and the Ground) for their preparation for the
forthcoming Tournaments. The Club wishes Good Luck to them in bringing more glories back home.
Samson Lam
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
7
GENERAL INFORMATION
Multi-Purpose Room Hip Hop/Jazz Funk -
Time-Table - March High Energy classes using the
latest sounds in Pop, Dance Music,
MONDAY
& Old School Hip Hop, to make
0730 - 0815 HitFit with Ben
the classes diverse, energetic and
1030 - 1130 Pilates with Jun
1200 - 1245 Spin with Ben
fun! It’s a very popular funky,
1300 - 1430 Table-Tennis upbeat, form of freestyle movement giving all students
1500 - 1800 RugbyTOTS the opportunity to develop their own style and movement
1900 - 1945 Recover stretch mobility quality.
with Rachael
2000 - 2200 Scottish Country Dancing Combining the groove of hip-hop and the flair of jazz
funk, students will be exposed to a unique style of dance
TUESDAY which includes strong technique and freestyle movements.
0700 - 0745 RPM with Davinia All classes start with a warm-up which consists of a series
1030 - 1130 Yoga for Everybody (Adult) of strengthening exercises and stretching to improve
with Nancy agility, coordination and flexibility. The students will
1200 - 1430 Table-Tennis move on to learning a dance routine and perfecting it.
1445 - 1800 Classical Ballet by Each class gives students the basics of dance and through
Southern School of Dance regular attendance they will learn all the fundamentals of
1800 - 1900 BodyRock with QueenB being a talented dancer. All styles and classes follow the
1930 - 2030 Netball Team Training internationally recognized ISTD dance syllabus.
2100 - 2230 Table-Tennis
Wednesdays - 1530-1745
WEDNESDAY Saturdays - 1600-1900
0730 - 0815 RPM with Ben
0915 - 1015 Zumba with Nicola
1030 - 1130 Pilates with Jun
1200 - 1245 SpinSanity with Ben
1300 - 1430 Table-Tennis
1530 - 1745 Jazz Funk / Hip-Hop Dance
by Island Dance
1800 - 1915 HitFit with Ben
1930 - 2230 Table-Tennis
THURSDAY
0700 - 0745 SoulCycle with Davinia
1030 - 1445 Table-Tennis
1515 - 1830 Classical Ballet by
Southern School of Dance
1830 - 2230 Table-Tennis
(Match / Team Practice)
FRIDAY
0700 - 0745 SpinSanity with Ben
0800 - 0845 SoulCycle with Davinia
0915 - 1015 Body Sculpt with Dori
1030 - 1130 Yoga for Everybody (Adult)
with Nancy
1200 - 1330 Table-Tennis
1400 - 1830 Gymnastics by Multi-Sport
1900 - 2230 Table-Tennis
SATURDAY For all Activities enquiries, please contact Sports Desk at
0900 - 1545 Gymnastics by Multi-Sport 3511-8698 or email recreation@hkcc.org for details and
1600 - 1900 Jazz Funk / Hip-Hop Dance for enrolment
by Island Dance
1930 - 2230 Table-Tennis
SUNDAY
0900 - 2230 Table-Tennis
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
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2018 departure date: 29 Apr | 10, 21 May | 1, 12, 23 BALCONY 26%off HKD26,866up
Jun | 4, 15, 26 Jul | 6, 17, 28 Aug Fare:
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[overnight] | Belfast, Northern Ireland | Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland | Invergordon, Scotland | Edinburgh
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2018 departure date: 1, 13, 25* May | 6^, 18*, 30 Jun | BALCONY 24%off HKD25,187up
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2952 8089 | 6898 8919GENERAL INFORMATION
HKCC Sports Coaches Club Sports Contacts
CRICKET
For all enquiries, please call Sports Desk, 3511 8698 email: recreation@hkcc.org Captain of Cricket
Sean Robson 9172 3091
CRICKET email: robsoncricket@gmail.com
Head Cricket Coach ECB Level 4 Coach email: craigwright@hkcc.org
Craig Wright Phone: 5500 1083 WOMEN’S CRICKET
Convenor
Ryan Buckley ECB Level 2 Coach email: ryanbuckley@hkcc.org Natasha Miles 2576 7879
Phone: 6433 7805 email: tash.miles@gmail.com
Cri-Zelda Brits CSA Level 2 Coach email: crizeldabrits@hkcc.org
Phone: 3511 8671 GAPPERS
Madhav Shankar 9222 1241
Adil Mehmood ECB Level 2 Coach email: adilmehmood@hkcc.org email: madshanks@gmail.com
Phone: 3511 8672
Adeel Shafique ECB Level 2 Coach email: adeelshafique@hkcc.org HOCKEY
Phone: 3511 8672 Convenor
Matthew Deayton 9612 8444
GOLF email: matt8889@gmail.com
Adrian Waters Member of the Professional Golfers Association
Golf Clinics and Junior Programme LAWN BOWLS
Phone: 3511-8699 email: golf@hkcc.org Convenor
Andrew Gerrard 6385 2260
GYM & FITNESS email: gerrardandrew@outlook.com
Amin Ashraf Personal Trainer Ladies Captain
Phone: 6406 0872 email: aminashraf@hkcc.org Garish Davies 9270 4849
Schwinn Cycling Certified Instructor (Bronze level) email: karlaigarish@gmail.com
Ben Simpson Bachelor’s Degree in Sport and Exercise
with Honours in Exercise Physiology NETBALL
Phone: 9274 1230 email: bensimpson@hkcc.org Convenor
Schwinn Cycling Certified Instructor (Bronze level) Olivia Meo-Groser
email: netballconvenor@hkcc.org
Rachael Lau Personal Trainer (Part-Time)
Phone: 9272 3103 email: rachellau@hkcc.org
RUGBY
HOCKEY Convenor
James Wood
Genevieve Rowe Level 1 Coach email: rugby.chairman@hkcc.org
Phone: 5169 6835 email: genrowe@hkcc.org Club Captain
NETBALL Wilfred Lau
email: rugby.captain@hkcc.org
Robin Manihera Coaching Level 3 email: robinmanihera@hkcc.org
RUGBY SQUASH
Convenor
Brett Wilkinson email: brett.wilkinson@hkcc.org David Hewitt 6397 2412
Head Coach email: davidahewitt@gmail.com
SQUASH
TENNIS
Chad Sunde Phone: 9522 0434 email: chadesunde@gmail.com Convenor
SWIMMING Debbie See
email: tennis@hkcc.org
Multi-Sport Phone: 2540 1257 email: admin@multi-sport.com.hk
GOLF
TENNIS
Mark Winstanley 9193 5246
Jason Lijewski Head Tennis Professional email: winstanleyma@gmail.com
Bachelor of Business
TCA Level 2 Accredited Coach
Phone: 9653 2782 email: jasonlijewski@hkcc.org TABLE TENNIS
Simon Chan
Chattida Thimjapo Senior Tennis Professional email: chan.simon@dorsey.com
Phone: 9318 5864 email: chattthimjapo@hkcc.org
TEN PIN BOWLING
Yuliya Bourin Senior Tennis Professional
USPTA Pro-1 Convenor
Phone: 5115 4315 email: yuliya@hkcc.org Tony Ku
email: tonyykku@gmail.com
Lina Gomez Recreation Dept. Captain Nicholas Brown
Phone: 3511 8698
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
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From Captain of Cricket, Sean Robson
Round Up
The Club wins The final round saw us up against LSW who scored 242
in their first innings. Our reply was 40 runs short as we
Premier League T20 Championship! were all out for 202. The next match, on what must have
S
been the coldest day at the Gap for a while, saw a fabulous
undays in January saw the start of ‘double 110 from Nizakat Khan lay the foundation for our first
header’ T20 matches as our Premier League innings total of 216. By scoring over 200, we had secured
side challenged for honours in this year’s the title by earning an extra bonus point, however the
competition. Against KCC we won the Championship was celebrated at the close of the match
first match, posting 180 with Mark Wright after we had won comfortably.
making 46.
Congratulations to Isaac, all the players and special thanks
The second game created huge excitement with both sides to our Head Coach, Craig Wright.
tied after 20 overs. The Super Over saw KCC hit 14 runs.
Unfortunately, we could only manage 6 and the day’s Sunday Elite League
points were shared.
With the focus for Sunday being very much on Premier
Our day against the Independents XI saw us score 190, League, the only match was Elliot Andrews’ Optimists’
thanks to a fine 65* by Mark Wright and 36 by Courtney resounding win against the Vagabonds. Adeel Shafique
Kruger. Independents overcame our total in the last over. and David Jacquier both hit centuries (118 and 101) ,
In the next match we hit a massive 253 with Anshuman while the skipper hit 48 in Optimists 360. Vagabonds
Rath (78) and Nizakat Khan (108) treating the spectators could only manage 217 in reply giving the Optimists a
to a sensational 170 run partnership. Independents were 143 run win.
all out for 138 and Isaac’s team shared the spoils for a
Saturday Round Up...
second weekend running.
The Gap Ramblers welcomed the New Year with a
The third round involved Pakistan Association and we
resounding 7 wicket win over KCC Crusaders. Having
achieved two victories! The first, a closely fought affair,
kept Crusaders to just 120, with Stu Tohill taking 4-12
we edged with an over to spare, while the second saw us
from his seven overs and Raunaq Kapur 2-24, Raag hit
score a huge 243/2 with Anshuman Rath delivering a
62* from just 38 balls. With the rain falling steadily, Raag
masterclass 122* and Adeel Shafique 85. Skipper, Isaac
decided to finish the match in emphatic style hitting the
Poole, took 4 wickets as Pak A were bowled out for 118.
final over for 30 runs - the scorecard for the over reading:
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
12CRICKET
6.6666. Game over! Our next match saw a low scoring The Witherers started
win over LSWCC Sarjan take us to the top of the league. the New Year in
Batting first we scored 177 with some solid striking from similar fashion with a
Alex Brookes (40) and Pete Boa (23) at the end adding convincing win over
to the foundation laid by Craig Johnston (37) and David SCC Lancers. Batting
Varley (32). first we hit 257/4 with
skipper James Redmayne
A fine bowling display from Stu Tohill (3-50), Hugo (88) and Charlie
Marland (4 - 16) and some terrific catching saw LSW all Bright (82) leading
out for 147. the way. The innings
was completed by a
The Ramblers strengthened their position at the top of fine 43* from Andrew
the league with a 153 run victory over KCC Saracens. Jacobs. SCC were all
Batting first, we scored 258/4 with Craig Johnston scoring out for 164. A great
60, Raag 50, Rory 50* and Stu Tohill 49. Saracens were team bowling effort
bowled out for just 105- Stu and Raunaq taking 3 and 2 ensued with Ben Zanol,
wickets each, after Saty’s outstanding spell of 7-1-1-10 had Hamish Dickie and Billy
piled on the early pressure. Newsum taking two wickets each. Needing one wicket
with just an over to go to secure maximum bonus points,
The Nomads 2018 campaign started in style with Chris Ash Smith took the vital wicket from the game’s last ball
White taking 4-16 as the Crusaders were all out for 61. to trigger much excitement.
We lost 4 wickets in the chase, but Andrew Swann with
a typically aggressive 37* was our leading scorer. The Enjoy your cricket!
victory took the Nomads into the top 3 of the Division 1
League Robbo
Friday 19th January – Taverners v. Football Club
Grocer (Rodney Miles) celebrated his recent and significant birthday event
by becoming airborne – quite a feat!
Save the dates
Saturday May 19th
Put a note in your diary and look forward to a fun evening when we celebrate our
season in the Club’s function suites.
Saturday May 12th: T20 Triple Header
The last Saturday of the season sees the prospect of a first ‘Triple Header’ - three
games of T20 cricket between each of our Sunday teams to decide who has Club
‘bragging rights’ in the shortest format.
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
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The Spirit of Cricket Global Challenge -
Sydney, Australia, 7th-14th January , 2018
at Bradman Oval, Bowral
I
n recent years a firm friendship has been built Welcoming us was the hottest day in Sydney since
between the Sydney Cricket Ground Trust and 1939! So to be watching the 4th day of the Test
HKCC, and 2 “home” and 2 “away” tours in rather than playing was definitely a blessing. Club
Sydney and Hong Kong have taken place since Blazers were worn stoically by some, and, though
2014. The Club therefore had no hesitation not sufficiently en masse to feature on TV, were
in accepting the invitation from the Trust to take nevertheless admired and asked about throughout the
part in January’s Spirit of Cricket Global Challenge, day. Welcome drinks, courtesy of the SCG Trust in the
joining the Cricketer’s Club of India, Marylebone CC, afternoon, formally kicked off the week’s proceedings
Singapore CC, as well as I Zingari Australia and the and gave us a chance to meet many of our opponents
SCG XI itself for a week of fixtures and festivities in for the week ahead.
and around Sydney.
Back to the Stadium then for the final overs, before
Now the official playing standard criteria was: “30- most went on to the evening’s Big Bash match at the
50 years old with experience at a reasonable level of Spotless Stadium (not at the SCG as muggins here
cricket with the hope that each team will include had, Plucka-deservingly, surmised…). A great evening
2-3 former first class cricketers, and 4-5 former/ it was too, thanks especially to SCG’s Rossco Barratt
current premier grade players.” So with the tour who got us special tickets. He had also arranged for
falling between the Calendar and Lunar New Year us to meet the players after the game, but, given his
holidays, HKCC player selection and publicity needed team’s drubbing, we thought it wise not to take him up
meticulous planning. Fortunately, Bob the King on this kind offer!
Bettridge, with the help of Captain of Cricket, Robbo,
the Club Management and Coaches, did us proud! The Monday was a valuable rest day, especially for those
publicity machine was particularly successful, for in who had gone on to sample Sydney’s Sunday night-life
the middle of the week, Australian newscaster ABC until the wee hours, though Plucka was getting a little
IIlawarra would write that “some of the top cricketers restless, unable to escape Buckers’ clutches despite
from India, Singapore and Hong Kong descended impressing the girls with his vibrant plumage. Dinner
upon the Bradman Oval…”. The reference to the outside at the Woolloomooloo Bay Hotel brought us
talents of GM Kieran, Bob, John Webb and myself, together for some pre-tournament team bonding, but
with an average age of 60 was clear! still no fine session, though GM Kieran made a good
early bid for duck possession, with his “I’ve got the
Armed with a great tour brochure, well put together best hands in town” boast…
by coach Ryan “Buckers” Buckley, multiple give-
away watches and frisbees from our Tour Sponsors Tuesday dawned with a painful 7 am start for the
StrawberryNet and IND-X Advisors respectively, and 90 minute coach ride south-west of Sydney to rural
accompanied by the indefatigable tourist, Plucka Camden Park. With bacon and egg rolls ordered the
Duck, we travelled to Sydney by varied routes at night before, the ride should have been assuaged by
different times (for safety reasons of course) but by a buffet feast, but unfortunately the rolls had not
Sunday Jan 7th most of us had arrived. been made in time and, to use his words, the captain
inevitably “wore it” later in the day.
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HKCC vs I Zingari Australia at the Camden Oval,
9th January – 35 overs.
F
ar from the town of Camden Park itself, at the A short Subway and spring roll lunch break was taken and I
end of a dirt track, the Camden Oval is the home Zingari took to the job of chasing the total.
of I Zingari Australia CC, a club rich in its 127-
year Cricket heritage, which is proudly represented Hong Kong opened their bowling attack with Max Tucker
by the collection of photos and memorabilia in and Ashley Smith who made most of the Duke cricket ball
the Museum shed next to the Pavilion. Combine this with kindly given to us by the SCC. A fingertip run-out at the
HKCC’s 167-year history, and the shared loyalty we have to non-striker’s end by Tucker saw the opposition’s number 2
the game of Cricket as well as the value we place on it, was depart soon after.
well paraded that day.
An early bowling change was made and George Gladstone
IZ Australia, as we learnt in a warm welcome from IZ continued the momentum of dismantling IZ’s top order and
Skipper Craig Hambleton, was formed in 1888, and is persistent good line and length paid off to have their number
reputed to be the oldest social cricket club in Australia. The 3 caught by Fuzes in the covers and also their number 1 clean
Club itself displays a very similar touring culture to that of bowled, finishing with the economical figures of 2/22 off 4
the Hong Kong Cricket Club. overs.
The ground is surrounded by a weathered picket fence with Mark Fuzes played the supporting role at the other end
an outlay of paddocks filled with dairy cows and chicken exceptionally well and finished his 7 overs straight with 2/25.
sheds and harmonized by the occasional laughter of a flock of
white Gallahs, typical of the Australian outback - we all felt Saty Singh took over from Fuzes and was unplayable for the
the vibe! majority of his 7 overs straight. Out-swing at a perfect length
proved impossible to play. Very unlucky not to have a share of
Overnight the unseasonal summer storms had brought about the wickets, he finished with 7 overs straight with 0/28.
heavy rain creating a very damp outfield marked with burnt
patches from the record scorching heat days before. Its centre Some middle order partnerships and hard hitting brought
wicket had wet patches on a good length, but nonetheless the about lowering the scoreboard pressure and, with wickets in
toss was made and Hong Kong opened their innings. hand, only 27 runs were required off the final 3 overs.
Having discussed the complexities of the Camden ground the Unfortunately, this total was chased down in the final over
night before in a bar in Barangaroo with the Sydney Cricket with only a few balls to spare giving IZ the honours for the
Club hierarchy at 1am, we knew that boundaries would day.
be harder to get in some areas of the ground due to the soft
patches and uphill slopes. In reality, a close finish was exactly what both Clubs had
really been hoping for, as the game was played with the
The game started without the official umpires and the overs etiquette expected from the Spirit of Cricket, which was
were reduced from 40 to 35. This enabled no delays should what our tour of Sydney was all about, and which was duly
we have any rain throughout the day and more importantly celebrated in post-match Speeches and Drinks as well as the
an on-time arrival later in the day to the SCG for the Spirit presentation to Craig of an HKCC Shield for their museum.
of Cricket formal gala dinner.
Departure from the ground showed the true theatre of its
Mark Fuzes, a Sydney local on his welcome back tour for the surroundings with a cow in the process of giving birth.
Club opened the batting and played a chanceless innings of Unfortunately, after stopping the bus, no one was game or
58 including an early mandatory retirement at 40. The top qualified enough to lend a helping hand. Our steak later in
5 including Rory (12), M Tucker (14) and Smith (10) all the night never really tasted the same….
reached double figures but were unable to hold their wicket
long enough to build partnerships. Our bus trip home had the first fines session of the tour
with many a laugh and also passing over of the tour mascot
Our tour mascot “Plucka” was offloaded by our Club coach “Plucka Duck” to yours truly for the undelivered bacon and
Buckers to “the king” Bettridge after he was trapped in front. egg rolls, as promised, the night before.
Some big swinging by Saty (32 n/o) and the reinstated Fuzes Special thanks to the SCG Trust for arranging this game with
saw the Hong Kong team close their innings in the 35th over a cricket club very proud and passionate with the way the
with 9/167, a competitive total given the playing conditions game is played.
on the day.
Luke “Angry” Rewega, Captain
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
15CRICKET
at Camden Oval
After a shower and a change of clothes back in Sydney, Now this over-indulgence the night before had clearly
we were soon on our way to the SCG for formal photos made our driver nervous of the extra weight on board,
on its hallowed turf, and a tour of its historic changing and after we’d left the main road and were about
rooms before the Gala Dinner in the Bradman Stand. the reach the epicentre of the magnificent Hamman
A great dinner it was too, with the teams sensibly split Estate, the bus suddenly slewed to an abrupt halt. A
among different tables to help foster camaraderie, and somewhat rickety-looking wooden pontoon bridge
a series of speeches by our hosts, historic film footage lay ahead, and rather than risk its collapsing into the
and a panel discussion accompanying a fine spread of crocodile-infested stream below, we were ordered to
food and wine. de-bus and walk the final yards to our destination.
Rarely have I witnessed such tentative footsteps, as we
Subsequent adjournment to various dens of iniquity traversed the slippery planks and walked gingerly on
predictably rounded off the evening for most of us, so to our destination – the Mandalong Oval, where an
despite an hour extra in bed, the next morning’s 8 am “extra-curricular” fixture had been arranged to ensure
start was still a tough ask and many of us slept most of we all had our fill of cricket during the week!
the 90 minute drive north - to Mandalong.
HKCC vs Hamman XI at Mandalong Oval,
10th January – 35 overs
W
hat an Oval! The toss however would still be important. Not only
- a private important, but also unconventional, as Stirling explained
ground lovingly in his welcoming address! Not a coin to be tossed but a bat!
created (à la Offered a choice of 3 bats to toss and the choice of ground
John Paul Getty, Lord Vestey, surface (sloping or flat) for its landing, naturally I chose
the Earl of Caernarvon etc.) by the one with ‘Junior’ on it and called for it to land on flat
Stirling Hamman, Gap Rambler ground (more of which post-match!). Launched high in the
Rowan’s Dad, in a clearing in the air by Stirling, the bat refused to obey my call of Flat Side up,
middle of his wooded estate. Rain and the toss was lost. Not surprisingly, we were inserted by
overnight and the forecast of more Rowan.
during the day made us a tad apprehensive, but the gods were
kind, and after only a short delay, the covers were able to be Bob the King and Fuzes opened, the former determined not
taken off and the rising sun did the rest. A 35-over match to get a pair and the latter conversely hoping to repeat his
was agreed by the skippers Rowan and yours truly (also a Gap performance of the day before. Neither was disappointed
Rambler!), but in order to even out the conditions, (bowling and on a literally very sticky wicket and slow outfield they
first in these conditions would be an obvious choice) the overs gave us a solid 25 run opening stand, before the King was
were split into a 20/20/15/15 format, while still being a single caught - by Rowan! Fuzzy continued with a professional and
35-over match. rapid 41 (retired), supported at the other by Henry following
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
16CRICKET
in Bob’s more measured wake. Acceleration was needed. In Beers and speeches from Rowan and
came Buckers. After an uncharacteristic dot-ball start, he myself followed, with men of the match
suddenly exploded into action with a flurry of 6’s. Henry was for us being Saty (43 not out and 4 overs
eventually out for a stolid 12 off 31, and in strode Saty. No 1 for 13) and, for the Hamman XI,
hanging about, he matched Buckers’ aggression and at the 20 Steve Daly (34 and 3 overs 1 for 15).
over break we were 94 for 2. Kieran then concluded the proceedings
by presenting Stirling with an HKCC Shield, and an open
This was a great start on a difficult track, and the opposition invitation to the Hamman XI to come to HKCC for a return
realized they were going to have to motor. Tight bowling by match, hopefully in the not too distant future.
our opening combo of Angry and Max made this difficult and
they were soon 16 for 2, with a catch by Ashley off Max and And then to the stump race – the most challenging I have ever
a caught behind off Angry. Skipper Rowan coming in at 4 had the misfortune to be obliged to take part in - on a stony
however speeded things up and after their remaining opener slope (unlike the pre-match bat-toss), 12 times round a stump
was caught by Max off Ashley, together with Steve Daly (who head-down, and a cricket ball to pass to the next man in! It is
would finish with a sparkling 34) they started accelerating. rumoured that my expletive-fueled performance engendered
But Saty then got the ball to swing both ways and, after not a little amusement among the spectators, though I am
a strident caught behind appeal, was turned down by the sure this is fake news, as indeed must be the rumour that we
umpire, fired himself up another gear and finally bowled lost the race.
Rowan for a well-made 32 round his legs with an unplayable
banana-bender. The runs however kept coming and at the What a wonderful day on a truly magical ground. Thank
break they were ahead of our run-rate with 97 on the board, you, Rowan and your team and thank you, Stirling and
but, significantly, were already 5 wickets down, thanks to a Dawn, as well as your support team on the Estate, for your
caught behind off George as their no. 6 stretched for a wide wonderful hospitality. See you in Hong Kong!
one – classic left-arm over wicket! My apologies here to Rory,
to whom I had promised a “ frog-in-a-blender” over before Richard “Junior” Wallace, Captain
I passed him the gloves for the second section. When it came
to the right moment, I just didn’t think I’ d be able to keep a
straight-face behind the stumps - next time, Sugar!
HKCC back in to bat for the last 15 and both Buckers and
Saty continued where they’ d left off. Buckers was out lbw for
a classy 34, while, joined by Rory, Saty continued, making a
top class run-a-ball 43 retired. Rory was caught after a rapid
27, ably supported by Ashley and, with wickets in hand, the
tail-enders’ job was just to hit as many as possible in the last
overs. In at no.8, slightly hampered by a sore pinky that later
x-rays would prove to have been broken (after I’ d mis-scooped
a half-volley throw by George and missed a possible run-out),
I was fortuitously barbecued cheaply by Ashley who’ d called
for an impossible run and then refused to heed my call to
send him back! Good call actually, Ash (not out 19) because
in came George to join in the bludgeoning and bring us to
a very competitive 197 for 5. My apologies though here to
John Webb, to whom I had promised a bat – we just lost less
wickets than I had anticipated!
Passing the gloves for the final 15 overs to a lither, younger
keeper, who was to pull off a smart stumping in due course,
I was lucky enough to be able to call on a huge array of
bowling talent to keep the pressure on the oppo, rotating the
bowling regularly while fielders (and field-placings) rotated
themselves on, off and around the ground with gay abandon
- Bob the King excepted, whom I undiplomatically asked to
change positions more than was wise. Leathely and Morgan After a challenging totter back across the pontoon
both batted well (24 and 24 not out respectively) but with bridge, a spirited fine session in the bus saw Plucka
wickets continuing to fall, to the guile of Fuzzy and Buckers pass to Buckers (somehow I had miraculously escaped
and the pace of Angry, Rowan’s boys were soon 9 down and yet again) for a belated, but self-admitted Cathay
falling well behind. Called on to bowl the final over, Bob Pacific lounge misdemeanor and we were soon back
decided not to prosecute me for ‘ lèse-majesté’, and helped us in Sydney for a relatively quiet evening before the
to conclude the match tidily, winning in the end by 35 runs. morrow’s early start – again!
>>>>>
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
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HKCC vs Cricket Club of India, at Bradman Oval,
Bowral 11th January – T20
O
n the 3rd day of consecutive cricket for the This brought Rory Caines to the crease and with the innings
touring squad who were just starting to hit in the balance and the knowledge HKCC would need a score
their straps, we made the hour and a half 140+ to be competitive Rory took no time to get himself in,
journey south to Bowral. There was no hitting a 4 off his 4th delivery and quickly combining to put
better place to play our biggest day of cricket on a 95 run partnership with Buckers. Rory and Buckers
with 2 back to back T20 matches than the childhood home of both went on to post 59 & 54 respectively in a display of
Sir Donald Bradman, known as the greatest batsman of all power hitting against a quality bowling attack; this set a great
time. platform for HKCC to post a competitive total.
On arrival a few of the touring party pointed out that there After the fall of the 3rd wicket Luke “Angry” Rewega
was some local media present; we then discovered that in was promoted up the order to pinch hit and continue the
the first game of the day against the Cricket Club of India momentum HKCC had gained. After initially having the
we would be playing against Arjun Tendulkar, the son of captain worried after swinging and missing at his first 4
Sachin Tendulkar (arguably one of the greatest batsman of deliveries, he then deposited the ball onto the road. In the
the modern era). The stage was set, and the captains headed final few overs, while scrambling for some quick later order
out to the middle to toss. Filmed by the local TV station for runs, HKCC lost a couple of cheap wickets before finishing
use later in the day’s news, HKCC took the first victory of the their 20 over allotment at 158/6. Although a competitive
day winning the toss and electing to bat on what looked a flat total HKCC knew they would have to be at their best on a
dry wicket. small ground and flat wicket to restrict CCI.
So, with the sun shining and Arjun Tendulkar taking the Max Tucker opened the bowling with a good first over -
new ball, Rowan Hamman and Mark Fuzes made their however, HKCC knew they would have a tight game on their
way out to the crease with instructions to “ have a look.” hands with the 2nd over of the innings going for 18. The
Both opening bowlers for CCI possessed some great pace and CCI openers, including Tendulkar, showed their intent early,
bounce. Rowan faced and was watchful, taking his time to playing expansive shots and taking advantage of the fielding
find the pace of the pitch, before Fuzes came on strike and restrictions of only 2 men out in the first 6 overs. To slow the
in the 3rd over was dismissed by Tendulkar cheaply. While scoring rate HKCC turned to spin and this seemed to tame
Fuzes became a minor celebrity on the side of the pitch with the attack briefly until the restrictions relaxed.
multiple tv and radio interviews, Ryan Buckley came to the
crease. Buckers almost instantly took the attack to the CCI HKCC struggled to break the partnership and the CCI
bowling attack and took full advantage of the first 6 overs of openers continued to tick the runs over and were in control
Power Play fielding restrictions. After forging a solid 45 run of the game until Tendulkar holed out in the deep to Mark
partnership to take HKCC to 50, Rowan was out running Fuzes in the 10th over (this only added to his off-field
past one from one of the multiple talented spinners at the CCI fame later in the day). This brought a new batsman to the
captain’s disposal. crease and with some fantastic middle overs bowling from
Ryan Buckley and Satyendra Singh, 4-0-23 and 3-0-16
at Bowral
Team chat
Breaking into Bradman’s
old house – Henry Vera at SCG
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
18CRICKET
respectively, HKCC were able to bring the run rate down to It is worth mentioning here that as
create some tension on the sidelines from the CCI supporters. well as the media, a fair number of
Unfortunately, with CCI needing a run a ball for the last 3 spectators had turned up to watch
overs the field was brought up and CCI hit over the top to the the day’s games and, throughout the
small boundary to seal the victory with 8 balls to spare. day, a genuine interest was taken,
not just in Arjun Tendulkar, but
This was a fantastic game to be involved in and HKCC in who we ourselves were and where we were from.
showed that they could match it with the best in the Spirit of Wandering around the boundary, as several of us
Cricket tournament on one of the best grounds in Australia. did, and answering questions about Hong Kong and
On another day, this could have easily gone HKCC’s way; our own cricketing heritage was a most rewarding
as is so often with the short form of the game, it is decided by experience and complemented Kieran’s and Mark
small margins. After the game, both teams enjoyed a fantastic Fuzes’ TV interviews.
“HKCC Chef ’s standard” curry lunch to refuel and prepare
for their 2nd game of the day… Indeed throughout the week, led and inspired by
Kieran and his exceptional, highly professional
Buckley 56, Caines 59, Hamman 20 handling of the media, the HKCC team proved
Williamson 1/41, Buckley 0/23, Singh 0/16 themselves great ambassadors, both for our Club and
for Cricket in Hong Kong.
Ashley Smith, Captain
Even Fuzzy’s son joined in, risking parental wrath in
the honesty of his declaration to ABC that “Tendulkar
got my dad out for a duck!”
HKCC vs Singapore CC at Bradman Oval,
Bowral 11th January – T20
F
ollowing a thrilling encounter against CCI, there It was always going to be a tough ask defending 110 on a good
was unfortunately an element of both mental and wicket and the openers started admirably, hitting the pitch
physical fatigue, evident in the performance that hard and forcing errors from the batsman. Unfortunately, it
followed against Singapore CC. just wasn’t our day and each chance created was dropped (3
in the first 3 overs, to be precise). A special mention must go
It started fairly well with captain for the day, to Max for the near-perfect execution of a short-ball strategy,
Rory Caines, winning the toss and electing to bat in the hope enticing the Singapore opener into a hook shot straight to
of emulating the successful formula from earlier in the day. deep square. George Gladstone, fresh from his dressing down
Using his prerogative as captain, Rory, of course, chose to open by tour manager Bob, was the pick of the bowlers, taking the
the batting himself, alongside the tour MVP to this point only wicket for the cost of just 9 runs.
Mark Fuzes. Karma struck in the 6th over, however, as Rory
was clean bowled attempting an ugly swipe across the line, It was a shame not to play to the same standard we had
departing with score on 42. in the morning, against arguably stronger opposition but
congratulations must go to Singapore who were deserved
Unfortunately, this somewhat opened the floodgates with winners and outplayed us on the day. There was some
4 wickets falling for the next 12 runs, two of which were consolation, however, as Mark Fuzes was rewarded for his
run outs. Fuzes, despite the weight of multiple media 59, the top score in the match. For this, he was awarded a
commitments and differing levels of responsibility for each lump of willow by the local bat manufacturer, who then
run out potentially playing on his mind (Buckers’ quite a offered to craft the wood to his personal bat specifications.
lot, Saty’s not at all), continued on his way. Supported by I hear the Singapore opener on 57* at the time they won the
Max Tucker, Mark continued to play his shots beautifully, game was not too pleased…
providing an innings for the team to play around, ultimately
finishing on 56 off 44 balls. Well played. Rory Caines, Captain
Irritatingly, Mark was also run out… as was Max… as was
Henry Vera. Our ringer, Craig Williamson, was not run out.
Amidst all this, he instead chose to play a reverse sweep to his After a tour of the fascinating Bradman Museum, we
first ball and was trapped LBW. The innings closed on 110. were off back to Sydney again, with Plucka now in the
hands of Saty, the 3rd duck in a row at Bowral, after
>>>>>
THE PINKUN | March | 2018
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