Day 4

Friday was a rest day with the boys nursing their wounded pride following yesterday’s heavy defeat. Some were actually resting bruised limbs following their endeavours in the field. Paddy Cox has suffered the first injury on tour – a grazed knee, whilst Henry reported to Doctor Castle concerned about a blood blister on his toe. ‘Man up’ pills were administered as the boys took to some serious recuperation by the pool.

Several took the opportunity to get out their revision guides, whilst Rookie Wren returned to the makeshift D61 classroom on Mr Castle’s balcony to resume Btec catch club. The afternoon saw many of the squad venture down to the beach, whilst the real hardhitters stayed by the pool for a serious game of test match cricket. Keen to impress coach Rowe, Jacob Mackay and Willem Bygrave were out to claim a place in Sundays starting eleven having not contributed yesterday. Defensive capabilities were tested to the full against a tweaking wet tennis ball, coupled with some outstanding fielding into the pool made it very challenging for the batsmen. Mr Rowe couldn’t resist the temptation and joined in showing the lads how it’s done down under.

A very pleasant evening was spent in Oistins fish market on the southern tip of the Island. Oistins comes to life every Friday with live music, entertainers, market stalls and lots of food stands selling everything from barbecued pigtails to dolphin! Many of our party took the opportunity to sample some of the local fresh fish whilst others stayed safe with some good old Caribbean fried chicken. With the group travelling aboard two minibuses the staff decided to journey back on the self-proclaimed ‘banter bus’, where they were quickly entertained by Danny Tomlinson’s advice on romance and the expense of regular visits to florists in Shepway!

WALLY OF THE DAY: Eliot Tyler for running down the track and attempting an audacious shot on the first ball he faced in Barbados (surprisingly he was out for a golden duck!). Also for befriending the resident cat.