Governor's XII do the right thing by their protectors

In terms of ratio, the civilian population and hence the cricketers of the Falkland Islands are amongst the most protected in the world.

Just 35 miles from the British overseas territory's capital, Stanley, around 2000 members of the British Armed Forces at Mount Pleasant Military Base stand ready in case Argentina seeks a 20 year anniversary reinactment of its invasion of the South Atlantic outcrop, protecting a population of 2,800.

The 'Civvies' demonstrate their gratitude by usually losing the biggest event in Falkland Islands cricket, the annual South Seas Ashes match between the Governor's XII and the Combined British Forces XII

The 2002 version took place last month under the keen observation of territorial Governor, Mr. Donald Lamont and a smattering of players' friends & relatives.

The Mount Pleasant Oval Cricket Ground, with matting laid over a cement pitch, is situated at the Army base of the same name. It is arguably the world's second most southerly cricket venue, after Chile's Punta Arenas (although it may rank third if rumours of an annual match at the Mawson Base in Antartica are true).

The 2002 South Seas Ashes match got underway with CBF XII captain, Flight Lieutenant, Dave Howey winning the toss and electing to bowl.

The 'Civvies' found the military discipline of British Forces opening attack of Phillips and Farr overwhelming, the pair bowling very tightly to have the Governor's XI reeling at 25-4 after the first 10 overs.

It was left to Welsh born power station worker and alleged wildlife expert/conservationist, Mike Bingham, to stop the procession of wickets and thanks to him the Governor's XI avoided lowering their previous lowest total of 63 to finish 77 all out in 26 overs.

Bingham's 35 was the second highest individual score in the 10 year history of the South Seas Ashes. He received support from Mike Barton with 11.

The Civilian pace attack then embarked on a first innings total defence which initally resembled Western Australia's famous Gillette Cup semi-final win in 1976 protecting just 76.

Barrister, Richard Marlor, aided by Barton, Steve Tyldsley, and Bradfield reduced the British Forces to 22-5 in 12 overs. Marlor was to finish with the figures of 5-1-5-3.

Alas, there was to be no Dennis Lillee-like performance to finish the job for the Governor's XII at Mt. Pleasant last month and the British Forces proceeded to the target without losing another wicket in the 21st over. Health (31) and Green (11) led the recovery for the British Forces.

Most personnel of the British Forces are stationed in the Falklands for a four month tour of duty, so like many non-Test countries and territories, the game's true health is reflected in the performance of the permanent residents.

The progressive Falkland Islands Cricket Association (FICA), keenly aware of that, has linked up with the International Cricket Council's Development Programme, and is hoping an ICC representative can visit next year.

FICA officials are planning a tour to Puntas Arenas on the turbulent Straits of Magellan and are seeking a fortnight long visit from a First Class coach next southern summer to complement their development work with juniors.