In the second in the series of profiles revealing what and who makes us enjoy playing or watching cricket, it’s the turn of Club President and all-round club legend Steve Brandes who gives us his memories and thoughts on the game we love.
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: Steve Brandes
Nickname(s): Brandy, Old Bloke, Old Man Withers.
What sparked your interest in cricket: My Dad taking me to The Oval in the early 60s to watch the West Indian tourists play Surrey.
Do you prefer the T20, 50-over, county or Test format of the game: Always Test cricket.
Cricketing hero: Ian Botham.
Favourite current (professional) player: Ben Stokes.
Most admired/best player you have played with: Dominic Newman.
Most formidable opponent: Dennis Cryer, a brilliant leggie from Hungerford.
Who would you most like to be isolated with from Calmore Sports – and who wouldn’t you: Would – Donny of course. Wouldn’t – Dominic Newman!
Favourite away ground: South Wilts.
Favourite/most memorable match you’ve played in: Semi-final of the Southern League knockout v Bournemouth, my only appearance at the County Ground, Northlands Road even though we got hammered.
Personal highlight/champagne moment: My 100 run partnership with Cassy for the last wicket v Gosport Borough to win the match off the last ball.
Funniest moment/s in cricket: Gragey streaking in only a pair of ladies tights after beating United Services at Burnaby Road.
Best way to relax after the game: Beers at the club, still in whites, two hours after the game.
Do/did you have any cricketing superstitions: None – just a lot of fags!
What will you miss most in cricket during this enforced break: All the lads and the craic at the club.
Is there anything you’d change about the game: Abolish the 100.
If you could invite 3 cricketing celebrities (players, presenters, commentators) round for dinner, who would they be and why: Martin (Big Basil) Newman, Chick Chandler and Roy Matthews – all former Calmore players. Not much sense would be talked but you’d never stop laughing!!!
