I had quite a lovely surprise out on my trundle today. For a change I thought I would head over to Charlton park via a different route to the one I usually take: I headed along Well Hall road and past the hospital. I thus entered Charlton park from the opposite end to the one I usually do. Going into the park it seemed fairly quiet. But then, in the distance, I glimpsed something awesome: the criticism pitch was in use!

Things suddenly seemed a lot brighter and in my head I heard the theme to Test Match Special. I didn’t expect to see any cricket being played for at least another couple of months. It was as if summer had suddenly begun early, despite the spots of rain in the air. This was certainly a sign that the gloom of winter is passing.

Naturally I rolled a bit closer to see who was playing. Unfortunately it wasn’t my mates in the Blackheath Mighty Eights, whom I’ve spent many wonderful afternoons playing cricket in Charlton Park. I didn’t recognise either team, so mainly due to the growing wind I only stayed to watch a few balls. Nonetheless it was a cheerful, encouraging sight for me, and a nice surprise to happen upon. Of course, they may have been playing a mach before cricket season proper begins for some strange, obscure reason; but even so, the very sight of bowlers and batsmen is enough to make me feel the warmth of a summer afternoon. As I rolled away, I resolved to look up when the Mighty Eights are next going to play.