Mumbai: There have been instances of father and son playing together in the same match but a rare incident of mother and son playing together happened in England last week.
Mrs. Helen Smith, 47, had arrived at the ground to leave her son Luke (14) play for the Leigh Cricket Club in the Liverpool and the District Premier Division match against Highfield team when she realised that the team had one player short and without any hesitation, she agreed to participate in the match. Being a cricketer herself, she went home and brought her kit.
Speaking exclusively she said, "My dad played cricket as a teenager in the 1940s and had to wait a long time to enjoy his love of the game. Luke and he enjoyed the Test matches and were good that I finally knew what they were talking about. Although I have represented the club for the ladies, I felt very proud to represent the club in the men's league. Made extra special to play in the same team as my son Luke."
"I think the fact that they asked says it all. Most may have seen me play for the ladies team and knew I would be OK. The opponents took it well. I didn't misfield any balls on the day at mid off. The game was faster and harder at times - it was great," she added.
"If I hadn't played, it wouldn't have been as competitive; the opposition would have a huge advantage both mentally as well as gaps in the field. Each of us can make a difference," she added.
"There are a many clubs who don't provide facilities or training for women and at one point I nearly gave up trying to learn the game. When I asked my dad if I should give up he said no - If I enjoyed playing cricket keep playing. It was then i found Leigh cricket club, who are a local club - with a centre of excellence for young girls. Without the club, I wouldn't get to practice, train and play the game. It was just a shame my dad was unable to watch. He died in February and wouldn't have missed it for the world."
"My husband (Neil) was umpiring for the 2nd XI. He was pleased for me and knew I would be OK too," she signed off.
