I love everything about the game...from it's storied history, to the stats, to watching it endlessly, to actually playing.
I spent 26 years out if the game and missed it every single day, not thinking I would ever get back to it. Then one day six years ago my wife said "why don't you play?" and I could not really think of a compelling reason why I couldn't (other than being 26 years out of the loop).
Started back up and I absolutely LOVE it!
My team mates are more than half my age...but their good natured banter and support make playing a truly fantastic feeling. When I get a standing ovation from the boys after an important or well played innings, I cannot describe how good that feels. When I am mobbed by my team mates after taking a catch...I am on a high. After we win a game, especially a close or important game, the shared joy is out of this world!
Out on the field, I forget my true age and I feel 20 again....surrounded by guys who are all around that age. My youth and my present seamlessly entwine to give me a sense of continuity of all the great things in life that I have always enjoyed.
So many friendships made out of cricket...it really does bring like minded people together.
For me, the game is not just a game...but, is a metaphor for life itself. It's joys, sorrows, trials, tribulations and ultimately, shared accomplishment. What other game gives you all that?
Having been lucky to put on a number of 100 plus partnerships at the top of the order...that feeling of shared accomplishment and a sense of having done a job for the team in its pursuit of victory is indescribable...but, I know everyone of you here knows exactly what I am talking about.
Life without cricket is unthinkable to me.
From childhood, it was love at first sight...and when they bury me, I hope it is with a bat beside me.
Cricket, I owe you everything.