Thailand’s first match was against the Netherlands, whom they hammed twice en route to their NED-IRE-SCO-THA quadrangular crown in Deventer a few weeks ago. This was a rain-delayed, nine-overs-a-side affair, which apparently suited Thailand’s hard-hitting openers. Nattakan Chantam hit 44* off 32 balls and Naruemol Chaiwai 26* off 22 balls. Coming into the tournament, Chaiwai is ranked 17th in the ICC T20 batting ratings while Chantam is 30th.

Replying to their total of 76/0, the Dutch were strangled by Thailand’s famously tight bowling outfit. Chanida Sutthiruang took 2-1-5-3 as the Netherlands were restricted to 46/5. Sutthiruang entered the tournament as the ICC’s 23rd ranked bowler – all-rounder Nattaya Boochatham, who also took a wicket, is 20th, while captain Sornnarin Tippoch, who went wicketless, is 28th. Overall, they ensured a convincing 30 run win for the world’s 12th ranked team over the 21st, and a welcome boost to the Net Run Rate.

However, Sunday’s match against 25th ranked Namibia did not go according to plan or form-book. Namibia are surprise entrants to the qualifying tournament – as second-placed finished in the African qualifying group, they were a late replacement due to Zimbabwe’s recent ban from international cricket. Like Thailand, their strength is in their bowling, and the result was a surprisingly tense low-scoring match rather than the walk-over that Thailand’s form and Namibia’s rankings might have suggested. Thailand’s fate ended up resting largely in the hands of Wongpaka Liengprasert, who has scored only 1 run in her last 13 T20Is (a duck, a one, and eleven DNBs). The ICC have put up a four-minute highlights package at https://www.t20worldcup.com/video/1333675 which is quite entertaining.

Unfortunately Edwardian, my brief google and quick listen suggests that Dif Juz are far too interesting/good for the intended blog but thank you for introducing me to them.

Belated happy anniversary.

Is that how long? (Rhetorical. We imagine you’ve got your dates right.) If you pair have another wedding, we’ll definitely see you then.

Thanks enormously.

What sort of pie are we talking here Bert: Potts? Galloways?

Can you make it 1986 – 1994 so you can include Gary Bromley from Dif Juz?

It’s a question of pacing. Remember, Stokes was on 3 after 70 balls, but by the end was walloping it to all parts. He just changed his approach.

Wait for a bit, then start offering free pies for everyone who signs up. You’ll get 73 in no time. It’s exactly what the Aussies did.