“Seven Fifteen”

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 235, 23 December 1927, Page 10

“Seven Fifteen ”

j SIDEY TIME IN CRICKET IS MORE POPULAR NOW j THAN WHEN FIRST j BROUGHT INTO OPERATION

WHAT OF POINTS SYSTEM?

Before cricket starts again after the holidays, the A.C.A. may consider the hours of play. There was an cutcry against 7.1 5 closing shortly after it was brought into effect, but the association wisely decided to defer the question till it had been given a proper trial. The extra hour has had a rather mixed effect. It may be said that it hasn't gingered up the general run of play very much, but then on the other hand there have been a number of really keen and exciting finishes which would not have been seen under the old order of things. CAUSE OF ALL THE TROUBLE? Further than that, it is just a question if the three points awarded for a first innings victory is not at the bottom of the lackadaisical spirit which is often in evidence, particularly on the second day. It is easy to understand that the team which has a sure three points up its sleeve for an inconclusive lead on the first innings, i* not inclined to speed up and take any risks on the second day. The United Suburbs-Xorth Shore match last Saturday is a gooc example of how the A.C.A.’s points system is not working in the best interest of the game, either from a playing or public point oi view. It would be well worth the while of the A.C.A. to look into this aspect of the matter next seasonWhat about two points for a first innings win and four points for a second innings victory? It would be a fairer allocation, and ought to produce brighter cricket on the second day. FEWER GROWLS NOW This, however, is a matter that can be left till later. The point at presem is whether 7.15 is too late. Certain*, there is not the same amount of opposition to it that was expressed when it started. , __ d . For one thing, players have gra ually adapted themselves to the cnans* In any case it is doubtful if the I ' that was made in another QU * rt f really represented the consensus opinion among the players. WHAT DO THE PLAYERS THINK

It now rests with the players .to «- press their opinion through their o delegates. Possibly, there will desire to shut down at a-quarte seven or seven o’clock. . . Even if the closing time were vi at 6.45, it wouldn't make very difference. Most players are enough after a long day’s cricket • ous rushing home to bolt tea * vamp off to the movies. warmer weather coming there 1 inducement to take the fullest tage of the hours of daylight is certain that Sidey Time ha friends now than when it This in spite of the fact that still denounced by a few caPPj , f farmers, who have discovered extraordinary fact that the co „ registering their disapproval *->. » . less milk. Intelligent animal, berry!