It wasn’t just cricket that was on people’s minds at The Oval on day two of England’s final Test against India—it was also about remembering a legend, celebrating the countryside spirit, and watching a gripping series unfold under grey London skies.
Despite the drizzle, the crowd was in full voice, not just for the sport but to pay tribute to the late Graham Thorpe.
And as the match hung in the balance with India taking a slight edge, fans were treated to both drama on the field and warmth off it.
Remembering Thorpey with Headbands and Heart
One of the most moving parts of the day had nothing to do with bat or ball.
It was the touching tribute to Graham Thorpe—a cricketer who was brave, humble, and deeply respected.
What really brought a smile was seeing old mates like Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton donning headbands, Thorpe’s signature look.
It wasn’t for show—it was heartfelt.
He was never the flashy type, so the gesture felt just right.
A fitting nod to a man who gave so much to the game and his teammates.
A Heated Goodbye That Crossed the Line
There was a bit of tension on the field when Akash Deep gave Ben Duckett an unnecessary send-off.
Instead of walking away, he got a little too personal—putting an arm around Duckett—which didn’t sit well.
Credit to KL Rahul for stepping in and calming things down.
Emotions run high in Test matches, but once a batter is out, that’s usually the end of it.
It reminded me of a classier era—like when Neil Hawke congratulated Fred Trueman on his 300th wicket and they ended up as friends
. That’s the spirit we should aim for.
Cricket and Steam Fairs—Only in Yorkshire!
Back up in North Yorkshire, it’s full-on steam fair season, and strangely enough, I can’t go anywhere without someone recognising me from the cricket world.
This weekend, we’ve got the Whitby Traction Engine Rally and the Hebden Bridge Vintage Weekend.
Picture Fred Dibnah, all covered in oil and soot—that’s the vibe.
It’s quirky, it’s countryside, and somehow, it always makes me think of cricket.
Maybe it’s the nostalgia or just the smell of engine grease and fresh-cut grass.
Tongue Twister for the Aussies
Alastair Cook nailed it on commentary—facing Josh Tongue is like flipping a coin in a tornado.
You just don’t know where it’s going.
And that’s what makes him so dangerous.
If Tongue keeps up the pace and unpredictability, he’ll be a nightmare for Australia.
They’ll be thinking, “If he doesn’t know what he’s doing, how are we supposed to?” That, my friends, is the art of chaos bowling.
Shoutout to TMS for Talking About the Tough Stuff
Big props to Test Match Special and the ever-excellent Jonathan Agnew.
He’s still going strong and doing what he does best—connecting with fans and talking about the things that matter.
During the lunch break, the team tackled mental health in cricket with honesty and care.
It’s an issue that affects players at all levels. I know many who have struggled, and it’s encouraging to see broadcasters making space for those conversations. It really is OK to talk.
Gus Atkinson Turns Heads Again
Gus Atkinson made quite the return, standing out in the England bowling lineup.
But it wasn’t just fans who noticed—big names like Ian Bishop, Wasim Akram, and Waqar Younis have been singing his praises since he impressed at the ILT20 in the UAE.
Back then, he was only getting the occasional game with Surrey.
Now, he’s proving to be not just a talented bowler but a decent batter too. England have a real gem on their hands.
Village Cricket Still Reigns Supreme
And finally, let’s raise a bat to the good old village cricket match.
No leagues. No pressure. Just pure love for the game.
This week, Arncliffe took on Kettlewell in North Yorkshire.
There were no stumps—so they found three in a barn, stuck them at one end, and used a jacket for the other.
After every over, they just swapped ends. That’s cricket in its purest form, and I love it.