on August

Copper foils collect on the outfield
Stubborn tufts of grass repay enthusiastic fielders with grazes
The cricketers’ whites are stained by streaks of blood, turf and dust
Once welcome cooling breezes of July have reverted
To deliver East Anglia’s usual desiccating chill
Players debate whether to wear two shirts, or a sweater
At home the shower temperature has been turned up a notch
The clock ticks off the days
Relentless scorer
Unbeaten

~

CLP 17/08/2025