...without so much as a home or anything permanent. The Grasshoppers nomadic existence if an integral part of their culture and over those 30 years this motley collection of cricket gypsies has travelled all over the globe and acted with great panache as Irish cricket ambassadors. The 2011 edition can justly hold its place as amongst the best and if the true test is camaraderie and fellowship with cricketers in international environs then this squad has excelled.
So far the Grasshoppers have won twice in Antigua and they have won two and lost two in Barbados with one match to go. They have a golf match on Wednesday and they had a catamaran cruise on Monday so it is not just about the cricket. However, they have won many friends on and off the field for the spirit in which they have played the game, It seems everyone but the ICC loves the Irish these days, and you don't have to tell anyone that the Irish are in town as the word quickly spreads.
They met Norman Whiteside's cousin at North Stars and Leinster CC stalwart Paul Hanby and his wife Fiona interrupted their holiday to pop in and say hello. There were also a couple of meetings with big Joel Garner and a few beers with former Downpatrick professional Calvin Hope late one Friday night. Indeed very late, but with no match on the Saturday the boys were allowed one night off from their normal "10 o'clock to bed curfew."
Everyone wanted to see former Ireland international Ryan Haire in action and the North Down all rounder has duly obliged with several entertaining half-centuries. Two young players with well-known cricket names are Mark Stinson and Nicky McCollum and Mark will not forget his first visit to North Stars as he took a career-best 7 for 38 in an impressive win at one of the island's most famous touring venues. The Nixon twins are indistinguishable for the novice acquaintance and like all the younger members they didn't waste much time in sourcing all the action spots!
Big Hendy Wallace has been an important linkman and his colourful fixture list has taken the Grasshoppers North, South, East and West without the need for an island tour. These guys have seen most of the island en route to and from some beautiful cricket grounds and although it wasn't open Michael Turkington and Ryan Haire did visit Nigel Benn's Aunty's Pub close to the Conrad Hunte Ground and this delightful old lady came out to have her photo taken with the "two good-looking young Irishmen"...her words!
Management deserves the highest praise for the way they have involved all the players in each match and player/manager Neil Russell has had nothing to ruffle his managerial feathers as "these guys have so been well behaved." Neil's words. Big Johnny Terrett's pulled muscle has been the only injury other than a few hangovers.
The squad has a heavy emphasis on youth with a few experienced "old hands." Saintfield skipper Ray McCavery starts most days with a two miles beach run and then he gets up. Ray keeps cool with loads of pineapple juice flavoured with vodka, indeed lots of vodka at times!
Barbados is an island famed for its romantic ambience but the only love affair that has been evident is with Bank's Beer.
After all, what goes on tour stays on tour. At least until they get home!
Four days to go and plenty to enjoy before Saturday.
Watch this space!
Clarence Hiles
Editor
