In the seventh in the series of profiles revealing what and who makes us enjoy playing or watching cricket, today we hear from a man of many clubs, the legend that is Westy.
If you would like to get involved, all players, past or present can give us their take on the sport, at Calmore Sports or otherwise – so please answer the 18 questions and email richard@calmoresports.co.uk.
Name: Michael West
Nickname(s): Westy, Kanye, Ginge, Bert.
What sparked your interest in cricket: George and Kevin Gray from Bramshaw took me to a net one day.
Do you prefer the T20, 50-over, county or Test format of the game: Test cricket
Cricketing hero: Robin Smith and Shaun Pollock.
Favourite current (professional) player: Ben Stokes.
Most admired/best player you have played with: Danny Peacock at Lymington, played for Zimbabwe.
Most formidable opponent: Cameron Valente – put me over the pavilion five out of six balls …. sorry Darren!
Who would you most like to be isolated with from Calmore Sports – and who wouldn’t you: Like to – Prouders or Rutter. Not like to – Pete cause he’s prefer Di! ?♂️
Favourite away ground: Ventnor … the Spyglass Pub ?
Favourite/most memorable match you’ve played in: Winning the title at Bashley – best feeling in the changing room I’ve ever had! And I’ve been in a few changing rooms!! ?
Personal highlight/champagne moment: Has to be the T20 against the Academy! Bowling the super over (thanks Mossy!).
Funniest moment/s in cricket: Prouders getting a standing ovation after he pulled his hamstring in the Academy game and Rutts saying “Fuck me I’ve just bowled out Lionel Richie” against Basingstoke!
Best way to relax after the game: A hamstring rub from Yorkshire Alan and a beer with the boys.
Do/did you have any cricketing superstitions: Left pad on before my right and twiddle my bat three times before I face every ball (which obviously doesn’t last long!!)
What will you miss most in cricket during this enforced break: Prouders (enough said!!)
Is there anything you’d change about the game: Lav’s warm up! ?
If you could invite 3 cricketing celebrities (players, presenters, commentators) round for dinner, who would they be and why: Robin Smith, Kevin Pietersen, Alex Morris – great stories!!
