Postcard (25 March 1999)

25 March 1999

Postcard

from Justin Langer

"Mood in Barbados like eve of an AFL grand final"

The feeling leading up to tomorrow's third test is almost like the eve of an AFL grand final. Such is the expectation and anticipation that there is real electricity in the fresh Barbados sea air. It is overwhelming the number of Aussie supporters that have arrived in Barbados for the game. At training this morning you could have mistaken the session for the lead-up session to the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. A few Bajan onlookers were replaced by hoards of excited Australians wearing green and gold caps and holding Aussie flags.

While the practice facilities were almost third world, the centre wicket that was made available was flat enough for a decent hit out. All the guys look to be in peak condition, although Greg Blewett is having a little trouble with an injured left thumb that is causing a few headaches in the camp. We will have to wait and see how he pulls up in the morning in regards to his availability for selection.

After training we visited Kensington Oval for an initial inspection of the Test pitch. Although it has a covering of green grass down the middle of the playing surface, it felt very firm under foot and I am sure it will be an excellent test match pitch. Compared to the other Test pitches this series, I would have to say my first reaction is that this Barbados one looks to be the best of them.

Four years ago we practised on the ground itself, with the nets being cut into the outfield. From memory they were fantastic practice nets that provided perfect preparation for the Test. When we questioned our liaison man on why we were no longer training at Kensington Oval his response was straight to the point. "The greenkeepers from the Sandy Bay Golf Club have been employed to have the outfield looking green and in the best condition possible so that it looks good for the television. We didn't want to mess it up two days before the test."

So if the ground looks great from your TV set for the next five days you will understand why. Too bad if the quality of cricket isn't great as a result of the average training conditions, but as long as it looks good for TV that is the most important thing.

Always the cynic!

One of my fondest cricket memories is hanging out of our changing room and listening to our Australian supporters singing the national anthem after winning in Barbados four years ago. I am hopeful the same scene will be repeated some time during the next five days. To have all these supporters here means a lot to the guys, I am sure our performance will reflect our appreciation.

Time will tell!

From Barbados, JL