'I have a passion for the game'

FRIDAY, MARCH 2: Supporting Bermuda’s youth cricket programme has positive social ramifications for the island.

This from Charles Dupplin, CEO of Hiscox Bermuda, who has a deep abiding love for the game.

Hiscox Bermuda supports the Bermuda Cricket Board’s Under-11 programme as well as the annual Celebrity Cricket Match each summer.

Dupplin said it was an easy decision to back the organization.

He said: “I was a passionate cricketer, and I still occasionally play. I played a lot at university so it’s a very natural thing to back.”

Dupplin added: “The thing about cricket is it’s a great family event. It’s one of the few games where fathers and sons can play together. It’s very difficult for fathers and sons to play soccer together because one’s playing career is so much shorter.”

As an example of the longevity of being able to stay active in cricket, Dupplin said: “I was playing in a game not so long ago and I honestly thought this man going in to bat might just keel over and die. He was about 80. Our bowler had a run up and the first ball he cracked for four runs.

When I was talking with him at tea time he said it was a very disappointing season for him. Although he was over 80, it was the first year he hadn’t made 100. Cricket is a great game like that.”

He said Hiscox was proud to support the Under-11 programme.

“On an island where there are some challenges to family life, supporting cricket in general has quite a lot of social use.

“For me, it manages to combine personal interest with something that is important for Bermuda. Getting to play cricket when you’re young and getting the ability to step onto the field and know what you’re doing is vital.

That’s what I did for little tiny Leeds when I was growing up. Trying to ensure that there is an opportunity for it in Bermuda is good.”

I’m also impressed by the enthusiasm in which it’s played.

Dupplin said the annual Celebrity match is always good fun.

“We have this game where the ‘celebrities’ take on the children and  they’re good for Under-11s.

“That’s a very good day and it’s a nice thing and I’m happy it’s one of the things we got behind here.”

He said in spite of their young ages the bowlers are already showing good form.

“I’m trying to bat and I think ‘these Under-11s can’t be that good at bowling’ but the ball arrives at okay pace — it’s not that easy.

“It’s played in great fun and a very good spirit."