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Paul Hames

Paul is the first person to actually request to do one of these interviews. Cheers Ste for sorting it out.

What year did you join the Club and what or who made you join?

Not sure exactly but reckon it was around 2004 after the mighty Holy Family dispanded.

What type of player would you consider yourself?

A swinger (bowler) who is getting slower by the year and a mid to late order batsman with unpredictable results.

What is the funniest moment you have experienced on or off the field while at the club?

So many but the ones that spring to mind are the Martin Howard in the hedge at Rufford incident and Rob Jones body checking Gaz Nolan at West End when he was about to have him caught and bowled.

What is your aim for the new season?

To play as much as I can/am allowed.

Who is the best player you have played with at the club?

I've played with the great Pete Hames a few times over the last few years. Baz Mills is up there too and for his consistency probably Joe Sawbridge, especially given his age (and the fact he's 1st team captain this year!).

What's your favourite thing about New Victoria?

No one really gives a shit. Obviously we play to win but you get ribbed for dropping a catch/getting a duck whereas other clubs would punish you. I genuinely would not play for another team when New Vic are around (corny!).

What has been your favourite tour so far and why?

Bratislava was great because our hotel was above a McDonalds but in terms of the experience, weather, food, beer and errr cricket, the first tour to Bulgaria.

What is your nickname?

I often get called sexy by my teammates and many passers-by but suppose the most common is 'Pablo'.

What is your finest moment as a player?

Probably one that not many will remember - beating Charnock Richard away a few years ago. I got four wickets and the opposition would not shake our hands because they were so gutted at losing as they were unbeaten all season. Dickheads!

Where do you see New Victoria in 5 years time?

Hopefully with two strong teams turning out each week. Simple pleasures!

Six Hitter or Crease Sitter?

Neither - more of a slow walk back to the pavilion wondering how I missed a straight delivery.

What is your best fielding position?

Point-ish or square leg (although that sometimes involves chatting with the opposition umpire - I don't like socialising).

Who, in your opinion is the best cricketer you have faced?

Dwight Mais at Southport Trinity. He played for Trinidad and was rapid. His run up started at the boundary at the Rec.

What is your favourite on the field moment not involving yourself?

I remember at Hesketh Bank a few years ago me and my bro, Chris, were fielding close in and we had to stop Joe halfway through his delivery as we were laughing so hard at seeing Uncle Peter go arse-over-tit as he went to sit down on a bench…but missed. Still has me chuckling (sorry Pete).

Who do you think is the biggest prospect at the club?

Fozzy played for us a few times last year and looked good. Also, Mamzy but he's about 30 now so probably doesn't count as a 'prospect'.

Who is the team you enjoy beating most?

Churchtown, but that's mainly because I know a few of their players.

Finally, Is their a message you would like to send to your club mates?

1st team must avoid promotion. Although they have umpires in Division 1 we actually win games in Division 2.