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What a night to remember. Was kindly invited to the Chance To Shine event at the MCC to watch and celebrate the opening night of the Brisbane Test of the Ashes series 2013/4.  

It was thoroughly brilliant.

Yes, admittedly it was helped by Broad silencing the Aussie supporters with a dynamic ‘Five-for’, and the team taking eight wickets on the opening day of what looks like a good batting track, but as Harmison says “You need a little luck sometimes”.

We were shown around the Home side’s changing room, whilst Ed Giddins recounted some lovely tales about how messy Tuffers was, how tidy Alec Stewart was,and how fiesty Prior could be. Amazingly we got to walk around the Committee room, and no I didn’t jot down Gatt’s extension number. Tempted though.

We were told about the Queen’s favourite seat, the history behind the traditional famous painting of the original ground by Hayman, and wondered in amazement at all the history that has passed through that very room. It was a true privilege.

Ed Giddins interviewed Steve Harmison. I had to ask him about his 7-12 in the Windies, how could I not? When the TVs were switched on and some highlights of former years were shown, he was most jovial about the ‘Double Wide’ – waving at us (probably thinking ‘You try and take 250+ test wickets for England).  

Throughout the night there were those who peeled off, but I’m proud to say I stayed until the last ball was bowled. Boy did Jimmy get some zip with the new ball. I just can’t wait to listen to an hour, or maybe two tonight on TMS tucked up in bed.