My TMS days
From Sir Tim Rice
Sir: Flattered though I am to be nominated by Mike Taylerson to join the Test Match Special team (Letters. 4 August), I must point out that I have already graced two of its hallowed commentary boxes, albeit rather rickety ones, in Jaipur and Pune, during the 1987 World Cup in India and Pakistan. The occasions were not Test matches, but I did perform as a fully fledged ball-byball spokesperson for England's games against West Indies and Sri Lanka, drafted in Mark Butcher-like at the last minute to replace ailing or absent senior men. Apart from identifying Graham Gooch as Gladstone Small. I felt I did enough to retain my place but, unfortunately, planeloads of fresh commentators arrived in time for the semifinals and I was back in the stands for the rest of the competition.
I am not sure that having Harold Pinter alongside me in the box would produce the tension Mr Taylerson craves. My team have played against Harold's Gaieties XI for many summers now, and I find him the most gracious and civilised opponent. We have agreed over a pint on quite a few matters even weightier than cricket, such as the insane Nato interference in the Balkans.
Nevertheless if recalled to the TMS colours, I would be honoured to serve.
Tim Rice
London SW13
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