English Cricketer, journalist and writer Simon Hughes known to many as “The Analyst “ graced the CCS stage to a packed membership as he had done in 2005.
Intelligent, knowledgeable and in a thoroughly entertaining style Simon started by answering a question from our new Chairman Ken Burney on what inspired him to start playing cricket. Simon responded by sharing how as a 10 year old, playing in his back garden, he was curious to check out and investigate what the loud and frequent shrieks emanating from the nearby cricket pitch near his home in Ealing, West London were. Only to discover they were shouts of “howzaaat” from the cricket players. It was probably this and the nurturing from his father (actor Peter Hughes) that led him to pursue his successful cricketing career as a right arm fast medium bowler.
Having played during the golden years of the game in the 1980’s and 90’s Simon was able to share tales of playing with the greats such as Ian Botham, Mike Brearley, Mike Gatting, Mike Selvey, Graham Barlow, Norman Cowans to name a few but also comedic encounters with Geoff Boycott, Malcolm Marshall and John Emburey.
The “off the pitch” stories Simon shared were equally entertaining and humorous. These were from a time when maybe pre match preparations and post match celebrations were probably done a little differently to what the professional players of today are accustomed to. Maybe not as many sports psychology therapy sessions or post match ice water baths then as there are for the professional cricket players of today.
Finally, Simon was able to answer questions from the CCS membership on topical matters ranging from the charges of racism in the game to the 100 format. His breadth of experience playing, reporting, writing and being involved in the game for the last 45+ years allowed him to answer those questions, authoritatively and pragmatically.
Overall, a thoroughly enjoyable session and hopefully Simon won’t leave it for another 20 years before he joins the CCS members again!!
In the meantime, for those that can’t wait that long access “The Analyst Inside Cricket” podcast that Simon presents and produces with the BBC’s Simon Mann.
Please click on the Gallery link here or in the top menu to view additional photos from the evening.
All images courtesy of Pete Wilson.