In the final part of her India photo diary, Rosalie Birch reports from Silchar, a small place with a small airport! These boys outside Silchar Airport were absolutely perplexed by us - we may have been the first western people they've ever seen! It was my birthday in Silchar and I love dressing up so went for an Indian theme. We bagged some real bargains on our hunt for saris! We didn't have a clue how to make four metres of fabric into an outfit but luckily we had some assistants like Pramila - who once captained India - and the hotel staff. India opening bowler Jhulan Goswami was my wonderful assistant. Pity she had to go and bowl me the next day! Everyone made such an effort to get dressed up for my birthday party, and it was certainly a day to remember. The skipper cannot resist a microphone at the best of times, and our Bollywood party was no exception. However, 'Is this the way to Amarillo' has not yet been released in India. The fourth one-dayer in Silchar was watched by a sell-out crowd of around 22,000. A radio link with Lottie would have been useful - I couldn't hear a thing on the boundary! This was the view from our coach and although they were clearly concerned for our safety, I have to say this made me more scared! At a function after the match, the Indians treated us to some of their dance moves, and taught us a few new ones too. Hilarious stuff.
|