The worth of Fred
A most uncalled-for aspersion against the most heroic of modern heroes
|
|
Quite churlish a question even by base current standards. All know that if there is but one truth in cricket, it is that Flintoff will strain every nerve for his team. Plus groin and back for good measure. Universally acknowledged that Fred is doomed to be the brave, beating heart of all XIs fortunate enough to have him in ranks. Can be relied on to hurtle in endlessly, ball in hand, despite loss of limb or vital organ or two. Just so poets, songwriters and English journalists can then write reams of epic verse in his honour. Dark day for cricket that such doubts had to be cast. For shame.
Yes, yes, no dream. He did. Took one wicket, gave away 31 runs in three overs, scored zero runs, if one remembers. But that's what joyless accountants will look at. Not possible to quantify the untold delight Gunther brought to Mumbai. For nearabouts an hour and some, he gurned and grinned. His tongue popped out every now and then to lap up the adulation. Grand entertainment.