Yes, following in the fine Aussie tradition, Alexander loves Cricket! The intricate rules fascinate him and when Patrick's not around he even resorts to asking me to face up so he can practise his bowling. The tries to coax Belle into fielding but she is having none of it - "too boring".

The boys have mown pitch down the middle of the garden and spend almost every free minute practising their deliveries. What could be more fun for a young boy than setting up the stumps in front of Mum's rosebushes and spending the afternoon perfecting his techniques in this fine sport.

He has again breathed life into a cricket bat given to him by Patrick's Aunt Diana. Until earlier this year it had lay in her loft for about 20 years, since her children were young. It is the perfect size and weight for him.

Alexander can spin the ball both ways and has displayed some fine footwork with his batting. He moves quite naturally to the ball and even pulled off a lovely square cut the other day.

No doubt he will be watching on the TV this year when the Aussies take the Ashes home!