Mad Dogs Time

The first cricket practice of the season was on Saturday. The weather cleared up nicely and we had a good hit out. I was quite happy with my batting after not having had a hit for a few months. My bowling was also OK but I did not do too much of it due to a sore knee (great way to start the season). I was accompanied to the cricket by Naomi and Fiona due to Mindy attending a belly dance workshop. Mindy was a little apprehensive about me taking the girls to a practice and was doubtful that I could keep an eye on them and play at the same time. After many assurances from me, she relented and allowed them to attend. Both of them made it home, injury free, so I guess it was a success.

The Dogs are looking good for the Philly festival. We have a good team going, a change from some recent years where the team was a lot more social than competitive. Our 1/2 of the draw has a couple of tough games, both played on the first day, so we should know quite quickly where we stand. One interesting fact is that a team in the other half of the draw is called "Trinidad U21". Now, it is not clear whether this is "the" Trinidad U21 team or simply "a" Trinidad U21 team...however, considering that 1/2 of our squad is over 40, and having played 5 games in 4 days before (possibly) making the final, if this team was our opponent, one would think they might have a little more spring in their step at that point.

The rest of the weekend was spent hanging out at home, relaxing. Played some poker and finished in the plus column. Watched the Waratahs win their Super 14 match and looked quite good in the process. The biggest improvement was in the scrum - it was refreshing to see an Australian side with a solid scrum giving a good platform for attack. Hopefully we can get a good combination in the front row for the Wallabies but the NSW 3 did their chances no harm this weekend. At this stage we look like having a good chance of getting at least one and perhaps two of the Australian teams into the finals, however they will need to play well over the remaining weeks to ensure they qualify.