Glenn Blakeney's humbled
Bailey’s Bay batsman Glenn Blakeney has called his record-breaking Eastern Counties innings of 218 against Flatts last weekend an ‘overwhelming and humbling experience’.In an open letter to several of Bermuda’s media outlets, Blakeney pays tribute to the fans and his team-mates for the part they played in an ‘historic’ occasion.He also applauds Flatts’ fighting spirit, praising them for never giving up despite several ‘fielding mishaps’.Blakeney’s total against the First Division side was the highest individual score in the competition, easily eclipsing the 183 scored by Noel Gibbons.“The historic results over the past weekend have been an overwhelming experience,” writes Blakeney. “.......It was a humbling experience when I was on 182 to know that I was in a position to surpass the record set by the great cricketer, Noel Gibbons, especially growing up with him being one of my favourite cricketers world wide. I would have been just as happy sharing Noel’s record.”Blakeney also highlights the performances of Tre Manders, with whom he shared in a record-breaking 232 run second-wicket partnership, and Kyle Hodsoll, who took five wickets in Bay’s 295-run demolition of the challengers.
Dear Sir,
The historic results over the past weekend have been an overwhelming experience. While I have been flooded with interview requests, I felt it was better to share my personal thoughts and feelings.
Firstly, I would like to congratulate my captain and teammates for the historic victory. Secondly, I continue to have a lot of respect for Flatts, who never gave up in spite of fielding mishaps. Had they taken the early chances, the outcome may have been dramatically different as Flatts, in the past, have had Bay backed up against the wall.
Thirdly, please allow me the space to personally thank the fans and all those who attended and tuned into the Eastern Counties match between Bailey's Bay and Flatts Victoria. Without them, there is no reason to play.
One can't overlook the masterful innings of young Tre Manders, who batted beyond his years. It was a pleasure to be at the non-striker's end to watch him play his strokes.
I also want to highlight the bowling performance of Kyle Hodsoll, who continues to work hard at his game. My admiration for him continues to grow as I have seen him overcome obstacles and the passing of his mom, who was his biggest fan. I know she is proud of him.
Bermuda's cricket is looking promising with Tre, Kyle and other youngsters performing at a high level.
It was a humbling experience when I was on 182 to know that I was in a position to surpass the record set by the great cricketer, Noel Gibbons, especially growing up with him being one of my favourite cricketers worldwide. I would have been just as happy sharing Noel's record.
Last but not least, I would like to thank Kerry Tucker, one of my biggest fans, who has always encouraged me to continue to play cricket no matter the outcome and always believed that I would break the Eastern Counties record.
Much love to my biggest fan, my son, Zavia-Khan, who was able to share the historic occasion with me and remains the reason for me to continue playing.
I hope the performances during Cup Match and Eastern Counties help to revive the interest in our National Sport.
Glenn Blakeney, Jr
