Last night in between opening the door and listening to Phil Collins sing his favourites and making sure the dogs settled down, I watched the Black Caps massacre India in the first Twenty20 international. I live not far from the Mission Estate Winery where the Genesis drummer was entertaining a mass of wet punters covered in rubbish bags and faux parkas.
Tim Seifert bludgeoned the ball to all parts opening for the Kiwis for the first time. A multi-talented sportsman, he played a high level of hockey and clearly dealt with the Indian attack very well. Another debutant, Daryl Mitchell played well. I’m sure his dad, John was watching from England where he is defensive coach to the England Rugby side.
Meanwhile, the Sky Tv people brought up a page of statistics that had parents and children that had represented New Zealand in different sports. It got me to thinking what a sporty wee country we have. The list didn’t include everyone but it made it clear that New Zealand really is a sporting nation and excels at it. But enough jingoism.
It seems Steve Hansen has referred to his Australian counterpart as Mickey Mouse. Drew Mitchell has taken offense. I’m reminded of a saying, ‘it doesn’t matter how good a peach tastes, there will always be someone who hates peaches.’ Michael Cheika would be lucky to have the success Mickey Mouse has had.
Well, I suppose my disjointed thoughts can come to an end for the day and resume in full gusto tomorrow. Let’s spare a thought for Ho Sung Choi, the swing-dancing contortionist who gained fame on the Asian tour. He is playing the AT&T Pebble Beach thing this week and is sure to have the eyes of the world and the detractors firmly watching his every, body-languaged, move.
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