First of all, I need to offer congratulations to the Seasiders. Blackpool have made it through the play-offs to gain a place in the Premiership next season. Of course, they follow fellow Lancastrian team Burnley, who have just dropped back out of the top flight. there was some discussion in the office today about the lasting benefits of promotion, especially if the team comes back down in the following season like Burnley. I think it's a good thing that a bit of the money from the top of the game finds its way down to the second level, even if it's by way of parachute payments for relegated sides. Burnley have improved their stadium and their training facilities, and this will hopefully make them a better Championship side next season.
Anyway, well done again to Blackpool. I look forward to seeing Premiership football on the Fylde coast.
Then there's the cricket. I neglected to post anything at all about England's T20 victory in the West Indies. This was because life was in one of its busy phases here in LankyLand. I felt, however, that I should belatedly offer my congratulations to a very classy England side who finally showed that we have the talent for the shorter forms of the game. The crucial thing, as always, is good selection. Many bold and brave decisions were made by the selectors, and these were backed up with a renewed approach to fitness and fielding drills, leading to some impressive catches and run-outs. Then there's the batting. It was great to see some power hitters who aren't called KP or Freddie. For too long now, England have relied on the same 2 batsmen to club the bowlers out of the ground. Now it seems we have a team full. 114 days
