This was told by a cricket loving very average 3rd xi player.

THE DAY I NEARLY GOT A TON.

NORTH DOWN 3 V ARMAGH 3 AT THE MALL.

The teams gathered in front of the pavilion each captain doing a head count to establish if 11 players were present.

North Down had 11 but Armagh only 10. A young 10 year old was beckoned over and kitted out white shirt and shorts.

The visitors won the toss and batted. Trevor opened and having batted through to the drinks interval began to hope for a big innings.

The scoreboard was indeed very healthy and with 46 overs gone it read 217/6 with Trevor on 98, easily a personal best.

The Armagh skipper had used nearly all his bowling options but one- yes why not give the young lad a bowl!!

Four paces and down came the first one- a huge wide half way between wckt. and square leg umpire.

Four paces and down came the second one= a little better but well out of reach, another wide.

Some coaching from skipper and umpire and the youngster prepared to bowl again.

Four paces and down came the third delivery- better but still going well down the leg side.

Trevor feeling sorry for the lad attempted a pull shot. The ball brushed the pad and rolled down to fine leg. The batsmen began to stroll a leg bye but as Trevor approached the far end the youngster turned and called HOWZAT DA!!!!!

THE FINGER WAS RAISED- THAT'S OUT SON WELL BOWLED!!!!!