Sellsy's Sunday Supplement

You can always tell when it’s the first Test match of the summer, the weather turns bad and it rains. Yes, England are back in action, against Sri Lanka, in their quest to become the number one Test playing team in the world.

As you may have already seen, these Sri Lankans are no mugs, scoring 400 in their first innings, even though the English have replied strongly. However tougher challenges await; with India next up later in the summer.

I do wonder how much England will miss Marcus Trescothick, especially after his performance this week. Needing 230 to win in 50 overs, Banger smashed the ball to all parts of Taunton to lead Somerset to a ten wicket win over the Tykes. Tres finished on 151 not out, and with his 180 in the first innings it just shows how much he is valued here in Somerset.

Ok, we had to take 20 wickets firstly, and Arul’s two wickets at the end of day three were very crucial. Plus he also played a very good supporting role to his skipper, with 90 in the first innings and 60+ in the second.

Must admit in getting really annoyed with the BBC Teletext service; have you ever heard of Jimmy Hildreth? I always though it was James Hildreth, unless someone can correct me on that.

Jonathan Liew in The Telegraph this week wrote an entertaining piece about the lack of women commentators, not only in cricket, but in most sports. The West Indian broadcaster Donna Symonds is one to admire, as she sounds wonderful and very knowledgeable over the airwaves, and can hold a conversation about WI (no pun intended there) cricket with any folk.

Kate Fitzpatrick tried her best once, while commentating on a Test match for Australian TV. Overcome by nerves, she blurted out to Richie Benaud the first thing that came into her mind: “Richie, doesn’t Joel (Garner) look lovely?” Kerry Packer was on the phone instantly demanding: “Get that woman of my TV station.”

Being a cricket commentator is a job which I crave for, and for the guys who do it I’m most envious. Not only do they travel the country and world, and visit some wonderful places they also talk to the nation about this wonderful sport. I can always remember listening to the delights of Brian Johnston live from Sydney, when I’m tucked up in bed under the duvet freezing cold, while he boasts about how hot these places are.

He’ll always be remembered for the Jonathan Agnew incident, Botham not quite getting his leg over, and giggling for near on a minute. However for me, his funniest quote was: “There's Neil Harvey standing at leg slip with his legs wide apart, waiting for a tickle.”

I could go on about commentators for a while, perhaps another Sunday Supplement, but they are just one ingredient which makes this sport such a wonderful experience. Of course there are some absolute tossers who are on the airwaves (I shan’t mention no names, super injunction and all that, but you know they are C****** C******), but mostly they are so delightful and richly entertaining.

Over Stowey had a tough weekend, again injuries are a big concern for both sides, however it is still great to see both Saturday sides getting 11 out again. Barrie Buller had a great day for the 1^st XI, taking five Minehead wickets, and scoring a 50. Unfortunately it was in vain as the 1^st’s went down by 60 runs.

Poor old Ashley, a Stowey club stalwart, can’t get a run anywhere at the moment, last four inning were ducks. Hold in there Ash, just need a bit of luck and the score will come. Otherwise I’ll see you in the Cider Tent!

Well, it’s that time again, 10.57 and the bar is beckoning. The SS will be earlier next week, due to heavy social diary.