When in England and there is a Test Match in prospect, it is the obvious thing to do. Well, for me it is! The 3rd Test between England and South Africa started today at The Oval, or The Kia Oval as it now is. I booked tickets months ago for the first day. The partner is not in to cricket so I had to limit myself to one day in the interests of domestic bliss.
Last week the forecast looked excellent but it has deteriorated with each passing day until this morning it was predicted as some sunshine, mainly cloudy and the chance of showers and heavy rain. It read a bit like a normal day in Melbourne .
Indeed that is what we got.
Some observations on the cricket at The Oval compared with Australia.
Where are the women and children? Hardly any here comparatively.
Ticket prices are similar. Very high here and in Australia.
Food and beer are very pricey.
As much is consumed here as is consumed in Australia.
We ought to thank our lucky stars in Australia that the facilities are so much better and more comfortable - seating, toilets, food choices, replay screens, entertainment, and crowding. With a full house of 25,000 there was no room to move.
Despite all that it was a good experience and I'm glad I went.
At the end of rain interrupted Day 1 the situation is pretty much even with maybe the slightest of edges to England.
The 100th Test Match at The Oval
Off we go - cloudy but bright.
Ominous -out come the covers.
Hmm - a touch of heavy mist!
But there is always the Yorkshire Tea Band to entertain us.
