It is hard to believe that the Bunbury’s are celebrating their 21st Anniversary.  In some ways the years have fled since they first made a tentative appearance but, as their reputation has grown, it now seems as though they have been ever-present from the very birth of cricket itself.

The Bunbury’s are of course, unique.  Their often madcap, hilarious way of playing cricket has brought enormous fun for players and spectators alike.  Nothing is quite like a Bunbury game.  Team members are flexible on the Bunbury side – if you turn up, you play.  Eighteen fieldsmen (or women) is a common sight, but the fun is such that nobody cares – not even the batting side complains.

Players are often ill-matched for skill.  A real rabbit might face Imran Khan; or Viv Richards might bat against a bowler who would disgrace a Third Eleven.  The spirit of a Bunbury match is the essence of sport – pure joy unleavened, and the quality of the player is no barrier to his or her place in the team.

The purpose of the Bunbury’s – apart from fun – is to raise money for charity and to promote cricket, and their success has been remarkable.  The heart and soul of the Bunbury enterprise is David English, a man packaged with an excess of effervescence and enterprise.  Where others think, David does and there are many causes which have benefited hugely from his energy and drive.

The Bunbury’s coming-of-age is an unmissable opportunity for celebration.  Let the fun begin and roll on throughout the year.  One outcome is certain: maturity will not dim the riotous assemblies that are Bunbury fixtures – nor turn them staid with age.  The Bunbury’s have become a national institution – and long may they flourish.