Drum roll for Nick ("The Hornet")

[Sweder]

There's an interesting cross-sport ageism analogy to be considered.

Milan were (until an hour or so ago) branded a team past their sell-by date. Yet they belied their years to smite the youthful Rowdies, Rooney, Ronaldo et al buried under years of know-how. In 2003 we sent an 'experienced' team of rugby union players Down Under to plunder the Web Ellis trophy, cries of 'Dad's Army' ringing in their colliflower ears. Then there was the ancient order of Australian Cricketers. They'd had their day, these leathery-skined antipodeans. Our boys set sail, Captain Flintoff on the bridge, young Pietersen and co braced for action, only to be scuppered by cunning, guile and unbridled sporting hardness.

As an old, wise golf-pro, none other than the wonderful Harvey Pennick, once councilled; beware the opponent who rolls up on the first tee with well-worn clubs, sun-wrinkled skin and a squint.

I hope Nick appreciates this is by far the most longevous drum-roll in recent RC history