@Scarecrowe and waves to @Zoe7
Well I started following most sports very closely once I started work in early 1977. My boss loved his sport, and I was tasked to listen to the radio and keep him updated of any sport which was happening at the time. He had a lot of meetings, and I was to discretely phone him with updates if anything exciting was happening. He especially loved the cricket, but it also included all footy codes and commonweath games and olympic games. I got the job of following the cricket because I had my own room and could have the radio going all day. Of course, being a sports nut myself, I was happy to oblige.
Oh yes, its a very prized autograph, and I just went and checked it as I spoke of it just now. Yep ... still got it.
Gee dont get me started on more cricketers, there are several overseas players I greatly admire of course. Just read your additional Aussie ones, and agree with most. Except for Warnie ... I never warmed to him at all. I note you mentioned Ian Chappell, but not Greg. Same here ... although Greg was a classic stylish batsmen, I never forgave him for the underarm incident. Oh gosh ... how remiss of me ... yes, Pat Cummins is one of my favourite current team members ... I think he's fantastic, and could be close to being classed as a bowling allrounder. And seems such a lovely guy too. He came onto the scene as an 18 year old and had all those years out after his test debut due to injury. He has worked so hard to get back to the great bowler he is now. I have a lot of admiration for him.
Overseas cricketers ... umm lets see now .... Indian - Sachin Tendulkar. Pakistan - Imran Khan. West Indian - Vivian Richards (love the swagger). England - Beefy Botham; David Gower. South Africa - Barry Richards; Jonty Rhodes; Jacques Kallis. Kiwis - Richard Hadlee; Lance Cairns; Martin Crowe; Brendan McCullum.
I've been to South Africa, but sadly not for the cricket. Wow ... I'm envious of you going to the 1999 world cup in England, and meeting the teams. I do remember that tied semi against SA too ... yes indeed, great times. Bring on the Tatts win I say ... do you ever take tickets? Cant win if you're not in it.
Glad you enjoyed Billy Connelly ... he is very clever. Nothing beats a big laugh .. I'll bet you felt good for it afterwards.
Sherry