Spectators at the Grenada National Cricket Stadium were optimistic that they’d get to see some cricket Monday February 25, the day scheduled for the 3rd ODI in the Colonial Medical Insurance series between the West Indies and England. They were wrong.
The true cricket fans in Grenada, plus those who had travelled from overseas, had waited in excited anticipation to see a match against a top ranked opponent at this beautiful ground. Who would have thought that, after seeing the teams warming up some time between 9:30 and 10:00 Monday morning, that they would be leaving at 3 p.m. without seeing a Cottrell salute or a Hetmyer six! After checking Weather Underground, I kept saying “it will clear up man.” Hah!
Even the West Indies players were looking forward to the match, according to Darren Bravo who spoke with the media on Sunday. Check out the next post for that video.
So, what do you do when no cricket is playing? Well, I roam. Off I went to find people I knew, and more importantly, a healthy lunch. After accomplishing that, and it was by then obvious that my optimism was in vain, I trudged back over to the press box, careful not to get my feet too dirty in the mud.
I passed some interesting scenes. First, was a long line at the ticket office. Later on on the news, I found out that they were enquiring about refunds. One person suggested that Monday’s ticket holders should be allowed to come in with those tickets on Wednesday. That would be a great idea and would certain fill up the stadium. What I had seen today was not very encouraging.
Seeing the empty stands after lunch, I thought persons had left. Not so. The bar area of one of the stands was packed….and noisy!
There were also a trio of musicians in Grenada’s national colours, adding to the noise while entertaining the spectators.
I can’t tell you how disappointed I was as I drove out of the stadium on Monday. Spotted some visitors having a good time at a colourful bar on River Road. They had the right idea not to let a little rain….and it was indeed just drizzles, but constant throughout the day…..dampen their spirits.
I had ensured I didn’t have any work commitments to interfere with my focus on what would have been an exciting game. The thought of rain had not entered my mind, since for the whole year, we have been experiencing drought-like conditions and the Water authority have threatened to have persons who waste water prosecuted. Training day had been sunny and based on the weather forecast, I anticipate Tuesday will be sunny too.
What about Wednesday? So far, it looks promising, as does the West Indies team’s chances of securing a second win. Be optimistic. Buy your tickets and come to see the number 1 ODI cricket team take on the team who, on the right day, can play like they’re number 1 too.