Sue Gordon, Ross Purdon

120 Not Out!

Introduction

120 not out!. Discover the deep history of cricket clubs from 1845, illuminated by Luke Alfred's new book 'Pineapple'. An astonishing story capturing lost institutional knowledge.

Abstract

Cricket clubs had existed at Buchner’s on the Bushman’s River, Kaba (Bedford) and the Fish River as far back as 1845’ (Tournament booklet 2024), but until Luke Alfred, sports writer, with support from Justin Stirk, produced the well-documented history “Pineapple”: An Astonishing Cricketing Story (2024), the history had not been shared. Ross regretted that the book hadn’t been published 20 years sooner to mark the centenary; sadly, since 2004, much institutional knowledge has been lost.

Review

The article, aptly titled '120 Not Out!', immediately signals its focus on the enduring legacy of cricket, particularly in historically rich regions. Drawing on information from a 2024 tournament booklet, the abstract establishes a surprisingly deep historical root for cricket clubs, dating back to 1845 along the Bushman’s and Fish Rivers. The core of the piece appears to be a commentary on the recent publication of "Pineapple: An Astonishing Cricketing Story" by Luke Alfred and Justin Stirk, a work lauded for finally bringing this previously unshared historical narrative to a wider audience. This article seemingly positions itself as a critical reflection on, and celebration of, this significant contribution to sports history. The primary strength of this article lies in its clear articulation of the importance of historical documentation, particularly in niche fields like regional sports history. By spotlighting the origins of cricket clubs in locations like Buchner’s, Kaba (Bedford), and the Fish River from as early as 1845, the piece underscores a rich, largely unrecorded heritage. The abstract effectively conveys the immense value of Alfred and Stirk’s book in rectifying this oversight, suggesting that 'Pineapple' fills a critical gap in our understanding of the sport’s development and cultural embedding within these communities. This article thus serves as an important beacon, drawing attention to a new resource that promises to illuminate a forgotten chapter. While the abstract effectively frames the significance of 'Pineapple,' a minor point of ambiguity arises regarding the identity of 'Ross' and the specific centenary being referenced in relation to 2004. Clarifying these details within the main text would enhance the reader's understanding of the author's perspective and the precise historical milestone being regretted. Nonetheless, the article’s overarching message—a poignant reminder of the fragility of institutional knowledge and the urgency of historical preservation—is compelling. It suggests that '120 Not Out!' functions not only as a review or commentary but also as a call to appreciate and safeguard the deep-seated history of local sports, especially in light of past losses, making it a valuable contribution to the discourse on sports heritage.

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