Thursday, February 22, 2001

The younger of our twin brothers had a miserable day standing in the slips today. Hoping to gain valuable batting practice during the next three days, Mark instead split the webbing in his left hand and will not bat for at least four days. Prior to this incident, he had been suffering from a case of Bombay belly and was just about to go off the ground for a toilet break. His timing, usually a feature of his cricket, was lousy on this occasion as he instead spent the afternoon at the hospital having stitches weaved into his left hand. While the prognosis from the doctors isn't as bad as it first looked, it will be touch and go whether 'Junior' will be fit for the first Test starting next week.

Had we dismissed the Mumbai tail before stumps, I would have assumed the role of opening batsman for the team this afternoon. Unfortunately, Mark wasn't the only player in the doldrums today. Yesterday's birthday boy Michael Slater also spent part of the last session in the changing room toilets. He was looking a little grey when he finally returned to the field just before stumps. Maybe, he had one to many pieces of birthday cake on the big day or more likely the Bombay belly has taken its toll on our seasoned opener.

While we are taking every precaution to avoid problems with the food and water, a few of the guys have had upset stomachs at one stage or another. The food has been excellent everywhere we have been, so I think it might be a case of our bodies adjusting to the spicy change. Our physiotherapist, Errol Alcott is going to extremes to ensure every dish is perfectly prepared for the team. Before every lunch break, he is in testing the temperature of each meal with his thermometer. It might seem very fussy and finicky but as 'Slats' and 'Junior' found out today there is nothing worse than going down with a stomach bug.

Touching all the wood I can see, so far so good for yours truly, who is feasting on the Indian cuisine. Rather than leaving India wafer thin I will be looking like the side of a house if I keep going at the rate I am going. I hope that plenty of time batting in the middle will equal up the scales over the next four weeks. Any concerns we had before arriving in India have been eradicated by the unbelievable service everywhere we go. Surely, royalty couldn't be treated as well as we are being treated.

After another long day in the field, my legs feel like they are going to fall off so it is time for me to find my bed.

From Mumbai

JL

You can also read:

Wednesday February 21, 2001: Slats turns 31!
Tuesday February 20, 2001: A sad reality check
Monday February 19, 2001: Invaluable exposure
Sunday February 18, 2001: A tough day in the field - Day 2 Vs India A
Saturday February 17, 2001: Kaspa or Kimbo?
Tuesday February 13, 2001: Pre-tour preparations
Sunday February 14, 2001: Getting the run-down
Tuesday February 11, 2001: Leaving Home