CRICKET.

Evening Star, Issue 3771, 25 March 1875, Page 2

CRICKET.

Bt “ Lookb-on.” Some considerable time has elapsed since I had the pleasure of discoursing on cricket topics in these columns, and, though it is now rather late in the season to start a series of articles,, I nevertheless request the editorial powers to “ give me leave to speak my mind.” Many are the changes that have taken place in cricket circles within the last two years. Notably the virtual extinction of oliquism among cricketers. At one time all-powerful for evil, the erstwhile “croakers ” have at last subsided, and now give vent to their chagrin in ridiculously imbecile and impotent ravings which only serve to amuse and oven disgust their best friends. The dog-in-the-manger tactics, so long in the ascendant, are about played out, and the would-be “ leading ” cricketers who adopt them find their occupation gone. Certainly the cloven foot has appeared very recently, I. must confess, but no very great mischief has been done, nor any lasting impression made. Repeating tba fiasco of last year, two or three nonentities constituted themselves the mouthpiece ef one class, and. for seme absurd reason refused to take part m the Cup matches. Of course the mere fact of these wonderfully influential and fussy individuals withdrawing from the contests would make all sensible people withdraw also. So thought these remarkably sapient and astute persons. Marvellous to relate, however, the Cup matches are still proceeding, notwithstanding the frantic and futile efforts of a few discontented and dissatisfied malcontents. Though the white feather has been exhibited to an alarming extent, the amusing part of the whole affair is, that while outside a very harmless and insignificant clique is aware of the real reason of withdrawal, the innocents themselves, of course, affect blissful ignorance. Much ado has been made about nothing. The Cup match, to be played on Saturday next between the Press and the Merchants and Agents, is attracting considerable attention. Both teams are strong, and number among their some of the best cricketers in town. The Press have played a very plucky game throughout these matches, and have come off victorious in two well-contested struggles. They now enter upon the final tussle for Gup honors, and if anything, the favorites for the event. This match will probably be the last of the season, as the weather has already began to show signs of breaking up. I have all along advocated the establishment of another club in town, and next- year there seems to be some prospect of the Dunedin Club having a formidable rival. A South Dunedin Club has been started, and will next season entor the lists under favorable auspices. The great desideratum of a suitable ground will be supplied by the Caledonian Society’s new enclosure next the gas works, and altogether a very prosperous career seems to be in store for the new aspirants. Tt seems also that there is some prospect of the Citizens’ Club again coming to the front. There is ample room for all, and I am sure every true cricketer will rejoice to see three strong and healthy clubs in active operation in Dunedin