Postcard (4 March 1999)

4 March 1999

Postcard

from Justin Langer

'Hooter' Alcott puts the polish on our Test preparation

With 18 hours to go before the first ball is bowled in the first Test, I am afraid the news is a little gloomy here in Trinidad.

It is not that we aren't 100% prepared for the confrontation ahead, but rather that the rain has been falling for the majority of today. From all accounts the last few months have been unseasonally wet and the last thing the groundsmen needed was more rain the day before the Test.

When we arrived at the Queens Park Oval yesterday it was apparent that the outfield had taken large amounts of rain over the last few months. Although it has been dry since we arrived here a week ago, the outfield was very soft and muddy under foot.

Luckily the pitch is a lot drier and flatter than last time we were here four years ago. In fact, it looks very dry, and I would say it will play quite slow and low as the game progresses. If I were a betting man, then I would also predict that it will take spin as the game goes on. Considering we have two of the best leg-spinners in the world, and the West Indies haven't picked a spinner, I think all is looking good for the good guys.

The persistent rain meant that we had no use of the nets this morning at Queens Park. This will be the first time I have played a Test match without having practised in the nets before the game, so tomorrow will be a be a new experience. Although the chance to put in the normal physical practice hasn't been available, I can say that every other part of our preparation has been outstanding.

At our team breakfast this morning, our coach Geoff Marsh, announced that we would be having a special guest speaker after watching a couple of videotapes of the opposition. When the videos were completed, 'Swamp', called upon long-time physiotherapist Erol Alcott to address the team.

Affectionately known as 'Hooter', 'Hoot' took the opportunity to tell us about his experiences with the best Australian teams, and the worst, that he has worked with over the last 14 years. He talked specifically about his experiences against the West Indies.

In a nutshell, 'Hoot' told us that the reason Australia has been successful since 1995 was that the guys decided that enough was enough when it came to losing to the mighty West Indies. "Stand up and be counted," he said. "Play with passion and pride" and "don't fear them, rather cherish the challenge."

A very bright man, and downright good bloke, 'Hooter' was inspirational in his address. After the last few day's preparation, this morning's team meeting simply put the polish on what promises to be a great start to this important Test series.

The first session in the morning is the key for us. We know that if we can put the pressure on from ball one, session one, then we will be on the way to a big series.

I can't wait to get under way!

From Trinidad, JL