The Great Cricket Match--YES Daredevils VS. The Woodlanders

After a week of intense training, the YES Daredevils went up against the Woodlands team in a game of cricket. Zia was our stalwart coach who had the boys up every morning at 6 to practice their cricketing before breakfast. After classes and tea break, they were out there again preparing for the big game.
Last year we had a soccer match but this year it was decided that cricket would be the sport to play. Zia was determined to put together a great Afghan team to rival the finesse of the Woodlands team. He had them batting and balling everyday morning and evening to make sure we were prepared to meet the challenge of the home team. Great job Zia!
Nothing at Woodlands is done on a small scale. So amid pomp and circumstance, the Gills and Tom were escorted onto the field by two senior students to the applause of the teams and the spectators. A grand trophy was on display on a table amid the official viewing stands. The Gills and Tom reviewed the teams and wished everyone a good game. Tom got to flip the coin to see who went first, the Woodlanders got it—tails.
For many of the YES students and staff watching, it was the first time seeing cricket being played. Many of us were a little confused about the rules, so we asked the Gills and other Woodlanders what was what. Despite all the great team work, we didn’t win the match, the Woodlanders were just too good for us. The team was a down in the mouth over their defeat but we’re encouraged by Tom and others saying “It’s not whether you win or lose, it’s how you play the game.” It took a few repeats of the phrase before they got it and took defeat like gentlemen. After the trophy was awarded to the Woodlanders, the YES team was already asking about a soccer match. Afghans are much better at soccer apparently and they wanted a chance to win back that trophy. Better luck next year guys.
A big round of applause to Zia jan for all his hard work and determination!! Woo Hoo!!