A visit to Kent to watch an Australian practice game

On 27 June we left Bedford to travel to Tunbridge Wells. On the way we called into the Spitfire Ground in Canterbury where the Australian Cricket team was playing the third day of a practice match against Kent. The tickets that had been arranged for us were collected at the gate and we then went into the ground.

 

There was a large crowd enjoying the warm weather and the cricket. We arrived as the final overs of the Kent innings were being bowled. At the lunch break we met Duncan, a Richmond supporter, who was very pleased with their recent win.

During the lunch break families were allowed to go on the ground, look at the pitch or play cricket with soft balls around the edges of the ground.

A number of stalls, including one selling Australian related items, and even a jumping castle were around the ground.

Families also had picnic lunches around the ground. There was a festive attitude at this game.

After lunch the Australians batted.

At the end of the day had declared at 4 for 322 off 62 overs. Mitchell Marsh retired at 101. We left at 4.30 so missed much of the action but we saw some good batting.

Some of the players also had the opportunity to have a chat with Rod Marsh.

I enjoyed this opportunity to watch the younger Australians play. None of the other Wags wanted to go but the players did not seem to mind me tagging along, especially when I was offered a table with an umbrella providing some shade.