Editorial: Six weeks a cricket widow

IRISH JOY: George Dockrell is congratulated by his Irish teammates after taking a wicket in the 2011 World Cup. PHOTO/GETTY IMAGES

After much anticipation the Cricket World Cup is under way.

The Black Caps started with a convincing win in Christchurch at the weekend. It also caused a hiss and a roar in suburban Napier. The latter came from the couch as Corey Anderson belted another ball, the former from my mouth as I asked "did you hear me?" for the third time.

For the next six weeks, I, like many other Kiwi women, will be a cricket widow.

While I could huff and puff about having to talk to myself and not being allowed near the television, I've decided to relish this man-free opportunity.

I enjoy a good game of cricket but when the sun is shining I would rather be out and about. Saturday's game gave me time to enjoy a long run and a soak in the bath.

Perhaps next time the Black Caps play I'll go shopping with a girlfriend or get my nails done. The housework can wait for six weeks.

However, some long-term cricket widows, like my mother, must make do with an otherwise occupied man for the entire summer.

Digging up the spuds and washing the cars always took longer when there was cricket on the tele. Each time there was an appeal my father would drop his tools and sprint inside to catch the replay.

The years have worn down his knees and his sprint is now a stroll, so by his reasoning he should be allowed to sit and watch the cricket. My mother disagreed. Not one to give up easily, Dad sent me a text asking if I could mow the lawns, wash the cars and do the gardening when I'm next visiting - in Christchurch.

"Or grandkids will do, pensioners need rest time," he suggested. Well that could work - in time for the next World Cup.