Page:Cricket, by WG Grace.djvu/72

 13st. He batted right-handed; but bowled and threw in with his left. No man was more alive to the importance of choosing an eleven carefully for match play. A week or two before a match, he would take out his note-book and write down his team:

"First," said he, "I must have two good bowlers.

"Also two good change-bowlers.

"A wicket-keeper and long-stop.

"The rest, as long as they can bat and field, will make up a fair team."

Good fielding was his strong point, and he used to insist upon his team practising throwing and catching all round the field. Another important order was that, one night a week at least, sides should be chosen, and every one play as if it were a match.

My uncle Alfred Pocock was 5 ft. 9 ins. in height; weight, 12 st. 7 lb. When he first played for the Mangotsfield Club, he did not possess the skill which made him so valuable to E. M., Fred, and myself; but, infected by my father's earnestness, he practised diligently and acquired great power with both bat and ball. He made many good scores for the club, and his bowling won many a match. Nothing pleased him so much as watching a correct style of play; and he would bowl willingly for hours to a promising youngster, and was delighted to see him punish an indifferent ball. He bowled roundarm, medium pace, could break both ways, and was very straight. I have known him hit a single stump six times in twenty balls, and he was not satisfied unless he did it.

There is no need to say that, with two such enthusiasts as my father and uncle, the Mangotsfield Club increased in numbers and began to hold its own in contests. The West Gloucestershire Club held a distinct lead for a year or so, pretty much owing to the skill and influence of Mr. Hewitt, who was ably