This is a delightful variant of the game if you understand the rules. Unlike games like golf and bowls, there is no green fees payable although there may be ball fees applicable in certain cases.
Another advantage of this version is that you won’t need any special gear like in the normal game; it is played with the existing equipment providing that such equipment is in prime condition. The game is played on a pitch and the pitch is normally laid out in the middle of a double bed. As a variation, a rug in front of the fireplace, the couch in the lounge, or the kitchen table will make very good substitutes for the bed. Even the wall of a shower cubicle has produced some exiting games.
You can play a limited over version of this game at work in which case the pitch is laid out on the office desk. This variant is called a ‘quickie’.
When in dire need to play, the pitch can be laid out on a car’s backseat but this is not recommended for the ‘not so young’ players because if the pitch is longer than the field. it may cause some discomfort to older players.
The game is usually played by two players; the visitor and the owner of the pitch. The owner of the pitch takes strike at the one end where she has to cover her wickets while the visitor will deliver his balls from the other end. The visitor is advised not to deliver his balls too quickly. He should spend some time exploring other regions of the pitch and pay some special attention to the two pavilions at the far end of the pitch.
On the other hand, the owner of the pitch should not guard her wickets too efficiently as the visitor may not come to play on the pitch again if he does not score.
The pitch is usually carefully prepared; sometimes the grass on it is kept very short to assure a smooth delivery of the ball and to get some lift from a good length.
Occasionally a third player may join the game while it is still in progress, in which case the player receiving strike is said to be caught behind the wickets. The visitor is deemed to be caught with his pants down and may be in trouble if the third player has any residential claim on the pitch.
Finally, it is important to leave the pitch in the condition that it was found and to leave no markings on it (unless specifically requested) lest the pitch may have a permanent grounds man. Prospective players should note that most pitches become unplayable at times due to periodic maintenance.
Hey, we have a long weekend coming up.
Catfoot Blog (616)
