I’VE been diagnosed with a nasty form of cancer and there does appear to be a real possibility that I may have to retire hurt. I’m not religious but I do have a belief that this cannot be our only innings; otherwise it really does not seem to make sense. What if you get a vicious lifter early on and you top edge to slip for a duck, it’s not really fair?

Anyway, at 71 not out, I’ve had a decent knock but if my faith is not misplaced, next time I’d like to come back as a demon fast bowler. When I was young stripling and before I became distracted by cigarettes, whisky and wild wild women I did show some potential in this regard. I had a smooth run up, a good action and generated real pace but my radar was unreliable.

Any road up, it’s not a lot to ask and I remain hopeful.

VJ Connor, Bishop Auckland