Summer is about to begin
When I was younger, I knew summer was about to begin when I got a little package in the mail from my grandparents.
It contained a short note written in my Nanna’s flowing handwriting, along with the cricket fixtures booklet that came attached to one of the magazines she used to read. (The Women’s Weekly if I remember correctly, but I can’t be sure. If anyone can remember these, let me know.)
When I visited the family farm in summer, my Grandad and I used to sit together on the lounge in front of the television, watching the day’s play.
Sometimes my Nanna would come in and sit and watch with us, but as soon as Richie Benaud would start in commentary, she’d head back to the kitchen. I have no idea why, but she couldn’t stand him (sacrilege, I know).
My other grandparents, Grandma and Pop, were also huge cricket fans, and thanks to all four of them, I learned an appreciation and love of the game I carry with me today.
Back then, sitting with my Pop or Grandad watching the Windies obliterate the Aussie top order, I couldn’t have even dreamed of seeing women play cricket for Australia, let alone get to see them on television.
And now, over 30 years later, we get to see them open up the Aussie summer as reigning World Champions against our traditional rivals, the Kiwis.
Although there have been some changes due to covid, I’m glad we’re getting a summer of cricket this year.
It’s not going to be the summer we thought we’d have, but it’s still going to be a cracker.
Summer is about to begin, and I can’t wait.