Edited by author 08-10-2006 07:14 PM
Thoughts from the Direktor, the man with more experience of Ducks than even Mrs Jemima Puddle

1. For any 35 over game, 5 an over pretty much puts us in a strong position. That’s one 4, one single and 4 dot balls. So that’s leave twice as many you hit

2. In a similar vein, 4 * 50 partnerships wins us a match. So allowing for extras, you only have to stick around and score 20 or so each. That’s just 8 overs between you

3. One hero getting 50 takes the pressure off everyone and we generally get at least one of those a game.

4. There’s really no excuse to get bowled on the feather bed that is Glaxo. If it’s a good ball on the wicket just bung your bat in the way instead of a wild flail

5. Quick singles. Lately we have been beaten easily by teams who do good quick singles. That’s not running three flat out, that’s just good calling and backing up. A lot of defensive shots have a single in them

6. The cut shot. If you are not Kevin Pietersen then you might consider giving this a miss until you have scored at least 25. Instead we should be stepping forward down the wicket and cover driving. Or leaving it alone

7. You can’t get caught if the ball bounces. Also the Glaxo outfield is very fast. Combine these two facts and consider keeping it on the deck.

8. concentrate on each ball . Although it’s a team game, when half the players get out for a duck we are pretty screwed. Personally I like to tap my bat, fiddle with box , pull my trousers up , tap my bat again and then think of the ignominy of walking back and having everyone say “Good try” when in fact what they really mean is “uncoordinated pillock,” but are far to polite to say

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