Psychogeographical Meanderings - Brixton > Soho #6

Leaving the din and hubbub of the pub behind (having demolished a handful of free tempura prawns and chunks of cheddar cheese), time to mingle with the crowds spilling up and out of The Oval tube. A couple of young fanzine sellers try to flog copies of JM96* before catching up with Gideon Haigh outside the Hobbs Gates.

The massed ranks of buoyant West Indian supporters gently tease the young cricket fan up from the coast for his first ever Test Match, making him feel bothelated and disappointed that his side couldn't put up more of a fight. He takes his seat in the Peter May Stand and is offered a can of Red Stripe within the first 10 minutes. This is going to be a beautifully long day...

Meanwhile, in The Surrey Tavern the same soul sits staring at the TV screen above his head, contemplating whether to take his seat in the ground or head over to Stamford Bridge to see the first home game of the season. He downs his 3rd pint and chooses the latter option as the cricket is going nowhere. His decision seems vindicated, Chelsea won 2-0. The fact that he missed Devon Malcolm taking 9-57 does not come to light until he gets home at midnight.

Meanwhile, inside the ground. Michael Holding prepares to bowl to Tony Greig... This is going to be a very short innings and a very tough day for the South African/England Captain.

Because on this day the legend of 'Whispering Death' became a joyous reality!