My Cricket Experiences: South Africa's Characters

In my last "Experiences" article I spoke of my time with the Pakistan touring side of 06/07.

This time it's all about South Africa.

I started working at St. Georges Park, Port Elizabeth in 2005 and have witnessed Australia, India, Pakistan, West Indies, and New Zealand pass through PE as they toured my adopted country.

Obviously, whenever one of those countries was in town, so were the Proteas (SA's national side), so you could say I've spent a bit of time with the South African stars. They're a bit of an odd bunch really, but like everyone else I have my favourites.

My favourite player is fast bowler Andre Nel who is a complete legend. The fun loving Afrikaaner is a beast on the field but off it he's a bit of a prankster. He's always fooling around, messing with the hired help (myself).

In such an environment (international cricket) some would find it uncomfortable to be around such illustrious names, but with the likes of Andre around you always feel most welcome.

Most of the players recognize the job you do for them, but some just always want something more.

Herschelle Gibbs, for example, is always up for a chat about anything ranging from women to partying. In no particular order, of course!

Anyone who thinks the binoculars in the players box are for cricket are sadly mistaken. They're really for bird watching, if you catch my drift.

Cricket in SA is a huge family sport and very popular with ladies. In fact, the SA lads once had my mate out gathering numbers during the game. Nothing like a bit of focus, lads!

Other favourites include AB De Villiers. The young batsman is possibly South Africa's David Beckham, and like the Englishman always seems to blush when he gets any attention.

It's quite a laugh sitting with the lads all shouting "AB" in their best female impersonations. If only I were famous.

I'll leave it there for now, but I've plenty more to let you in on.