Well, what a surprise! How nicely we all scrub up in warm weather – some even had knees on display. And it was quite the turn-out too, although with Mr Barry Richards visiting from South Africa that was only to be expected.
Barry's career speaks for itself but few of us knew that as a Hampshire Colt he played his second-ever professional match in Harrogate.
He took us to South Australia, where he got to know the legendary Don Bradman, then walked us through his Packer years.
He stressed the relentless stream of innovations introduced by World Series Cricket – to the game and to its portrayal and discussion in the media.
Packer certainly had ideas and the ability to implement them.
Like other recent speakers, Barry is concerned about the current risks to test and county cricket.
When cricketers now have so many other options to maximise their earnings, these longer formats will inevitably be disadvantaged. Where the money is – mainly India but with future Saudi investment likely – will be the key influence. But tests, certainly between the big three, may enjoy protection in the short term at least.
Regarding Bazball, Barry likes the approach but also advises the need for some circumspection. As for the Jonny Bairstow/Ben Foakes debate, Barry reckons that Harry Brook has the technique to open, allowing Bairstow to play as a batsman and Foakes to keep wicket.
Some audience members have fond memories of an innings played by Barry at the Circle, Hull in 1970, when he scored a peerless 155 not out in 40 overs for Hampshire in the John Player League. Responding to the challenge, Yorkshire mustered a scarcely credible 74-9!
Barry also enjoyed another one-day game where he bested Boycott's total, sharing with us the various methods he tried to put GB off his stroke.
On an evening of warmth – in the atmosphere as well as the weather – Barry was a humorous, courteous and engaging speaker. No previous guest has ever travelled further to join us, and he departed with our thanks and a much-deserved round of applause.
Thanks also to everybody who contributed a raffle pot of £235.
Cathy Rennison