The 2016 annual Cup Match, which most would agree lived up to expectations when it came to cricket excitement, is now history — and congratulations should be meted out to all who played a part in making this year’s event another success in keeping a truly special celebration alive and well

The twists and turns of the match itself have been well documented by superb sportswriters and outstanding work by the T&T video group, with a higher grade of presentation that should be commended.

The commentary was equally most enjoyable, which made it easier to follow events as they unfolded. Of course, even though this is not a sports column, there is no way to avoid mentioning the Cup Match highlight, when Janeiro Tucker fell to his knees after scoring a golden century to end his many appearances for Somerset in the great classic.

Obviously, supporters including those from both sides flooded the field to express their joy at such a milestone. With emotions peaking, as people swarmed the playing area, there was concern that the pitch might be damaged, which would not be good for the batsmen. It was then that the police did something I had never seen before. With calmness and speed, they quickly formed two lines to protect the pitch and spectators seemed to have appreciated the move. That was commendable.

While this year’s match will go down in history as a success, a careful watch must be kept on preserving an event that celebrates emancipation from the dark period of slavery and also the settling of Bermuda by Sir George Somers. The significance of that Cup Match celebration, which began in 1902, must never be lost. This is why vulgarity and crudeness in any form should never be tolerated by those who cherish the true meaning of the two-day Cup Match festival, and what it really means to the Bermudian culture.

When someone during play for whatever reason decided to run across the field without proper clothing, halting play for a moment, startling spectators and indeed announcers who could not believe what they were seeing, it was not funny by any means. Although there have been similar pranks at sporting events in other parts of the world, we should act now to ensure that protecting values at Cup Match has not gone out the window. The matter should not be dismissed as just another harmless prank.

At all of these events, there are children watching also and adult behaviour, positive or negative, can leave them with impressions about how to conduct themselves in society. Most parents who take their children to public events do so with the expectation that they will benefit from the exposure.

Somerset Cricket Club should be congratulated for also playing a part in setting up play areas for children at the grounds.

Cup Match without a doubt is one of the most outstanding events and continues to attract visitors, even those without any knowledge of cricket. Bermuda needs to build on that and ensure in the process that there is never room for vulgarity or crudeness. Every year people have great fun and healthy rivalry, and that must be preserved.

It is the task of every Bermudian who has pride in what we have achieved over the years to keep Cup Match special while keeping sound good values at the forefront of all our endeavours. That will be a guidepost for the next generation.