'Teas are such a part of cricket tradition.' says columnist Stephen Wallis
Cricket teas are a part of the fabric of a British summer - along with strawberries and cream at Wimbledon.
As long as the game has been played, a break for tea and sandwiches has been the norm. But, like so many things in the past year, this tradition is now under serious threat.
Indeed former England captain Colin Cowdrey, the son of a tea plantation owner, refused to start an England (then MCC) tour game in Pakistan in February 1969 until the side had enjoyed a cup of tea.
Because of the pandemic, there were no club cricket teas during the 2020 season and, locally, the East Anglian Premier League, Whitings League, CCA, Rutland League and the Fenland Trophy have cancelled teas for 2021.
Until next weekend, players must bring their own food and drink and eat outside or in their own cars.
March Town CC have decided to resume with teas at The Avenue on a Saturday when they are allowed, while Wisbech Town CC have decided to follow the decision taken by the various leagues.
“We have provided lovely teas for so many years that we will continue to do so once the roadmap out of lockdown (Step 3) allows us to,” said March secretary Les Mills.
“We are lucky and have excellent caterers, therefore from Saturday, May 22, cricket teas will again be on the menu every Saturday for players and officials playing at The Avenue.”
Of course, some teas can be better than others. Wisbech captain James Williams said he would miss the delights served up at Eaton Socon CC. “Anybody who has had teas at Eaton Socon will know how good they are,” said Williams.
As a former player, there is nothing better than sandwiches, home made, cakes, scones and quiche, sausage rolls, summer fruits with cream, the occasional salad and fresh cup of tea, the choice of the former England captain. It’s time to relax for half an hour after a hard afternoon fielding in the sun, a long innings, or if dismissed cheaply a chance to remind everyone at the table about your dodgy LBW or the dangerous delivery which caused your downfall when well set for a big score - albeit in the opening over. Yes I am sure some of you have done that, I did!
Will those times return? The cricket tea has been under pressure for several years. Finding people to prepare them and give up their time in this normally busy world, as well as financial issues have made it increasingly difficult for local cricket clubs.
Plus as Keith Coburn, the Cambs County secretary, remarked: “Players are getting used to bringing their own food and drink.”
Ultimately, the clubs and players around the country will make that decision at league meetings and AGMs prior to next season.
But let’s hope when life does return to real normal – who knows when that will be? – cricket teas will be back on the table during the 2022 season and James Williams will be able to taste the delights of his tea at Eaton Socon CC and at all other grounds. The game won’t be the same without it.