I would linger around the pavilions, determined to track them down.
Collecting anything can be seen as peculiar. Who really needs a large collection of Ming Dynasty porcelain, thousands of matchboxes, or sheets of misprinted stamps?
No one truly needs these items, but the act of collecting is deeply ingrained in our nature. It represents a sense of ownership and control, creating a sense of order in a chaotic world.
For me, collecting autographs was a form of admiration. As a child, I viewed first-class cricketers as noble figures: individuals who were paid to do what I loved. They had achieved a level of success that I aspired to reach. Collecting their autographs was a way for me to pay homage to my idols and possess relics that I could cherish.
In anticipation of my own potential entry into the world of first-class cricket, I practiced my signature, emulating the style of Geoffrey Boycott, a skilled but contentious batsman. I still hold onto that signature today.
However, I have never had a young boy approach me for my autograph as I left the pavilion.
At the age of 12, in addition to collecting cricketers’ autographs, I sporadically kept a diary. One entry, prompted by my attendance at cricket coaching sessions, highlighted my admiration for a coach named John Trevett, who had played first-class cricket.
As a teenager, I received coaching from former first-class cricketers like the renowned England fast bowler John Snow. I vividly remember him advising me on my technique during a net session, showcasing his authority with a bouncer that left me in awe.
Unlike Snow, my memories of John Trevett are scarce. I only recall the positive remarks I wrote about him in my diary. However, in the age of the internet, I discovered his underwhelming first-class cricket record.
Despite his limited success on the cricket field, my admiration for him remained unchanged. He bore the title of a first-class cricketer, akin to a legendary figure like Achilles.
I can only imagine that I obtained his autograph as well.
• Joe Bennett is a Lyttelton writer.
