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“Oh that’s old whatsaname Taylor.”
From his retirement village in Rangiora, Alan Burgess – New Zealand’s oldest first-class cricketer – was still seeing it well on his 100th birthday.
It was indeed Black Caps star Ross Taylor on the other end of a surprise Zoom call, making for a heartwarming chat between the pair to mark the magical triple century on Friday.
“I go back too far for you,” quipped Burgess, who played 14 matches for Canterbury as a right-hand batsman / left-arm orthodox spinner between 1940/41 and 1951/52, and who, after driving a Sherman tank in WWII , also played for New Zealand Services teams.
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But Taylor – who on Friday claimed the Sir Richard Hadlee Medal at the New Zealand Cricket awards – was full of admiration, not only for Burgess’ efforts with the Zoom technology, but for his finely crafted century, which had him pleading for tips from the master.
“My grandmother, bless her, she’s passed away, but she used to say ‘everything in moderation’,” Taylor said. “What have you got? What’s your secret?”
NZ Cricket
Alan Burgess is New Zealand’s first first-class cricketer to reach three figures – in age.
Burgess was in good form: “Moderation … I didn’t have anything in moderation,” he exclaimed, before going on to express his delight in watching Taylor – New Zealand’s highest test and ODI run-scorer – play.
“I follow your cricket, mate. You’re batting well.
“You’ve got no idea, I’m so thrilled to meet you.”
Burgess also wasn’t shy of some probing areas, asking Taylor if he’s going to stay on the international scene for some time to come yet.
“Hopefully I’ve got a few more years left in me yet, the 2023 World Cup, hopefully I can hold on.”
The pair made a pact to catch up in person the next time the Black Caps are in Christchurch.
