I have often wondered, who really loves the game of cricket? Is it the first-class player like myself who had his pads and boots cleaned by the room steward? The matches are played on well-manicured fields with meticulously prepared pitches. Or is it those who play in the park on boiling hot Saturdays, having pegged down a matting pitch, then chasing balls around a tinder dry outfield? 

Calculated love for the sport

I’ve come to the conclusion that first-class players love the game in a calculated manner. Although it may change with the money in cricket, you basically have to love the game to play it decently. Nevertheless, it’s a calculated enjoyment, as first-class players are always chasing trophies, prize money and contracts.