Ben Middlebrook was amiable in the day's early evening light.
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The Old Boys captain - who amused himself while describing how he was now the veteran cricketer his young self used to hear complaining about body disrepair - had that day scored a 47-ball 40 opening the innings.
It was day one of a two-dayer against City United at Chaffey Park, and his top-score knock helped propel Old Boys to 232 after they won the toss and batted first. In reply, City were 2-37 at stumps.
When asked how old he is, Middlebrook underlined his advancing years by pausing and then replying with a wry smile.
At age 44, he is 35 years younger than Joe Biden. But to the younger members of his team - such as teenage No 4 Adam McGuirk, who made 35 on Saturday afternoon, he must seem ancient.
In Tamworth cricketing terms, he is ancient: this is his 28th first-grade season. He was 16 years old when he debuted in the top grade, at Albion.
"I remember sitting in a room when I was 16, and the 35-year-olds' were complaining about sore back, sore hip, sore leg," he said.
"And I was like, "Oh, that never happens - you guys are BSing. Now I'm one of those old fellas going, 'Yep, it definitely happens.'"
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After skipping Old Boys to seven premierships in eight seasons, Middlebrook played mostly second grade last season, and Old Boys were eliminated in the semi-finals. He had a strong season, averaging 48.
"I think last year gave me confidence, that I can play again," he said.
"The years before that, I've sort of been batting down the list and giving other guys a chance to perform, because they're coming into first grade. I don't know. I guess I'm getting greedy."
On Saturday, Mitch Swain (39 not out) and Corey Sommers also impressed for Old Boys, while City United quick Aaron Baker backed up his 6-6 in the last round with 4-30 off 10 overs.
Middlebrook said: "We've got a good, young team here, so looking forward to the season."
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