Ali And Ainsworth Speak
In a recent interview for Sly Sports with cricket expert Al Kaholic, Briggs XI captain Nalin Ali and star batsman Derek Ainsworth took some time out to talk about the season so far and their aspirations for the future.
AK: "So lads, the season has got off to an amazing start for the team, what are your feelings on the season so far?"
DA: "Well its been amazing to be perfectly honest, at the end of last season we thought we could give it a good go this year but no one could have imagined we would be unbeaten at this stage. The gaffer has brought in some top players and we've all gelled amazingly well, and with Nalin taking over from Hamish, things are looking very good for the future."
AK: "And Nalin, how has it been for you so far, it must be a lot to take in having only been at the club for a short period of time"
NA: "Well yes, I was delighted to have an opportunity to come to England and play a high standard of cricket with a top team, when I got asked to become the new captain after Hamish stepped down, I was amazed, I had only played one game for the team and I was already being asked to do such an amazing job"
AK: "Yes, a lot of people were shocked when you were given the captaincy after so little time at the club, what did you think about it Derek?"
DA: "The lads knew that Hamish wanted to let go of the captaincy and concentrate on his batting and its done him wonders, but obviously the question was who was going to take over. The local media speculated all sorts and when the gaffer told us it was going to be Nalin, we knew there must be something special about him, he's only 17, a lot of people forget that, and to lead 11 players out every Friday, most of whom are older than you requires a hell of a lot of ability and Nalin has proven he's got the knack."
AK: "Well, you two batted together on Sunday and put on a record opening partnership for the club, that must have been quite pleasing for you?"
NA: "Derek is an amazing batsman, his record proves that, and for me it was an amazing privilege to go out and bat with him. We both love to score runs, and Derek was quick to settle any nerves I was having and he took some pressure off me at the start by hitting boundaries, giving me opportunity to settle in and once I was in I went on to score my first century, so yes it was an amazing experience."
DA: "Yeah it was very enjoyable on Sunday, we found out we were going to open together on Saturday and I basically went through the same routine with Nalin that I go through with Stampy (Dan Stamp) and took it from there. I enjoy batting at The Dome the pitches are amazing and helping Nalin to get to his first ever century was one of the most pleasing experiences I'll ever have"
AK: "So then lads, what are you aspirations for the rest of the season and for next season?"
NA: "Well, if we can go through the season and remain unbeaten, it would be amazing, of course this is what we will look to do, but even if we dont, promotion would be an amazing achievement. Next season will be bigger as the first class games will begin, so we will have to look at those closer to the time."
DA: "I agree with Nalin on that one, promotion would be amazing even if we dont finish unbeaten, and obviously id like to continue scoring my runs and helping the side do that"
AK: "Well guys, its been great talking to both of you, I wish you the best of luck for the rest of the season and hopefully we'll be talking to you next season as part of a promoted team!"
DA: "Thanks mate"
NA: "Yes, cheers"