embubbleblue

The screen opens to the team in the changing rooms.
"Hi guys..." Bernard starts, sighing
The team are seated looking frustrated in the background. It feels just a little too dramatic.
The captain goes on to explain the depressing loss against Cambria. How they headed in too confident, and how it came back to bite them.
The stream ended quickly, fans comments of support for the team, with a couple of comments of annoyance mixed in.
The team all look to each other. Bernard cleared his throat.
"We have to win this next match."
Evander nodded in agreement, while the others look at him, unsure of what to do.
"I am thinking, we check out H&J's previous matches tonight, see what they are good at and not so. We should plan to play to our strengths and their weaknesses."
Evander pipes up "I think we should assign bowlers to batters- I'm great at lower throws than Pakand, so I can take on players that don't go defensive?"
Bernard nods, "We can totally do that, and bat to match their fielding style, so we really get the most out of our Inning"
The team cheers
"Okay, lets get started!"
 
OOC: I would do more but uhhh busy and tired sorry,,

The screen opens to the team in the changing rooms.
"Hi guys..." Bernard starts, sighing
The team are seated looking frustrated in the background. It feels just a little too dramatic.
The captain goes on to explain the depressing loss against Cambria. How they headed in too confident, and how it came back to bite them.
The stream ended quickly, fans comments of support for the team, with a couple of comments of annoyance mixed in.
The team all look to each other. Bernard cleared his throat.
"We have to win this next match."
Evander nodded in agreement, while the others look at him, unsure of what to do.
"I am thinking, we check out H&J's previous matches tonight, see what they are good at and not so. We should plan to play to our strengths and their weaknesses."
Evander pipes up "I think we should assign bowlers to batters- I'm great at lower throws than Pakand, so I can take on players that don't go defensive?"
Bernard nods, "We can totally do that, and bat to match their fielding style, so we really get the most out of our Inning"
The team cheers
"Okay, lets get started!"
 
OOC: I would do more but uhhh busy and tired sorry,,

The Blue Runners of the Blue Bubble Cricket Association
The Team Player Number Role Batting Hand Jakano Malthe
6 Batsman R Delkee Kenzo (WK)
84 Batsman R Evander Sibel
35 Bowler L Pakand Dekebal
91 Bowler R Bernard Koler (C)
75 Bowler R Kasp Aitry
52 Batsman L Aner Odel (Reserve)
40 All-Rounder L Onder Alkiades
3 Batsman R Grant Yonlon
18 Batsman R Trenin Jot'yandal (WK)
29 Bowler R Steven Jones
37 All-Rounder R Kander Tekona 21 Batsman L  
Demonym: Bubblean
Plural: Bluemen
Language: Glendulan, Common
 

 
Style Modifier: -2.67
Injure my players: yes
Dismiss batmen: yes
Deliberate unfair play: no
Godmod injuries: no
Godmod scoring: no
Godmod other events: yes
 

Vanessa Desniana: "Good morning Giovanniland! It is time for another Cricket Report with me and my colleague Karlo Nakamura-Edrense about the latest game played by Giovanniland, this time against our fellow Auran nation of Saint Mark. Just like the previous game against Fhaengshia, our team fielded first and today they scored 144 points in 20 overs, losing only 6 wickets. This was marginally higher than our amount of points in the first game, however it was not enough to win as the Saint Markian team scored four more points than us while losing the same amount of wickets. Furthermore, they were able to do it in just 16 and two thirds of overs, thus automatically ending the game as a win for them and a loss for us. This unfortunate result makes a Giovannilandian advancement to the Super Eight impossible, and in the review of our entire group."
Karlo Nakamura-Edrense: "After another defeat, now giving us a score of 0 wins, 0 draws and 2 losses resulting in no points as well, Giovanniland is sadly eliminated from the tournament. In the other game of Group C, the Andolian nation of Fhaengshia was able to defeat another opponent, this time Dilber, which will be our opponent in the last round. Therefore, the current state of the group has Fhaengshia with 4 points at the top, Saint Mark with 3 points, Dilber with one point, and ourselves with none. This makes impossible that we advance to the Super Eight, since a win only awards two points and, even winning against Dilber, we would not reach the 3 points held by the 2nd place nation.
"That way, the results our last game against Dilber will not matter much for us, although it's expected the Dilberians will fight for the win and hope for Saint Mark to lose so that they qualify for the next round. Saint Mark, meanwhile, guarantees a place simply by winning, or even losing to Fhaengshia if Dilber doesn't win against us. Finally, Fhaengshia is already qualified for a spot at the Super Eight, although the last games will see whether they advance in first or second place. Anyways, that is all for today! See you tomorrow for the report on our last match of the T20 World Cup, which will be against Dilber as I've already said before."

Vanessa Desniana: "Hey there, viewers from Giovanniland, Aura and the world! Today, myself at the Larxian city of La Marina and my colleague Karlo Nakamura-Edrense back home at Giovannia will present you a brief review of our first game in the T20 World Cup. The game was played against the Andolian nation of Fhaengshia, our neighbors just across the Darkesian Sea, whose team is named the Bounty Hunters. Our team fielded first and only lost six wickets, but we weren't able to gain score much as the final result was only 141 points. The Fhaengshian team then played after the Giovannilandians, and even though they lost one more wicket than our team, they were able to score 144 and ultimately won the game. Some highlights from the match were the performances of Liviana Volseno, Renato Velita-Amanda and Gaio Fagundo-Tertio in their roles of wicket keeper, batsman and bowler respectively, while other players were okay."
Karlo Nakamura-Edrense: "After our defeat to Fhaengshia, Giovanniland now sits in the bottom of Group C while our opponents are first, and the Saint Markian and Dilberian teams are tied for second place due to a tie in their first game. Due to the small amount of only 3 games, this could mean that another loss would result in an early elimination for Giovanniland. Therefore, our team must win against our fellow Auran neighbors of Saint Mark if it wants to have a chance of entering the next stage called the Super Eight."
"In an interview, coach Giustiniana Tarquinio-Anni mentioned that, whichever the result of the next matches and whether our team advances to the Super Eight or not, she's still happy that Giovanniland has participated in the tournament with good sportsmanship, given that cricket is not a popular sport in Giovanniland and is often overshadowed by others such as rugby, football and volleyball. That is all for today! See you tomorrow for the report on the match against the Saint Markians."

Royal News Network
May 12, 1421
"Hello people of Zoran! I am Quiyakaso and welcome to Zoranian Ti-I mean RNN's Sports Section! Last night we saw our team triumph over the Dalimbari cricket team! I have no clue how the scoring system works so I can't really elaborate on how well we beat them but we did! At least we got a little bit of revenge for their landmines! Our team is practicing for tonight's match using...wait am I reading this right?" He squints at something behind the camera,
"Using metal baseball bats wrapped in barbed wire instead of cricket bats...I don't know how that will help improve their performance in the match but the coach has a plan and I hope that the plan will work out! The coach commented that the team is determined to win for the people of Zoran and that they want to bring something home for the people to cheer about after going through constant conflict for a year now. We here at the Royal News Network wishes them luck in tonight's match!
And coming up...holy cra-I mean and coming up is some breaking news about the War, it might be coming to a permanent end soon! I will see you tomorrow with the report of tonight's match! I am Quiyakaso and this was RNN's Sports Section!"

Longtime Organized Crime Fugitive Busted In The Alcheran Riviera After Posting A Cooking Video Online
By Marcell Margaran
Though Polari smuggler Claude Bergara made sure to hide his face in the videos, authorities recognized his distinctive tattoos. The mobster who was on the lam in the Alchera was caught and extradited last week after posting videos of himself giving cooking tutorials on a popular video-sharing website.
According to The Sentenet, Claude Bergara is a member of the Capicola family within an infamous mafia-like Covington group, which has long been increasing its reach and destructive influences. The organization is believed to be responsible for most of the cocaine that enters Polaris.
Bergara had been a fugitive since June 1420, when Basric prosecutors issued a warrant for his arrest for trafficking cocaine into Nieubasria in connection with other major investigations against organized crime. According to NB News, he escaped to a Kurabian ex-pat community in the Riviera late last year, where he remained under the radar until posting a cooking video that featured himself and his wife on his video channel.
It is unclear how many videos he has posted to his channel and for how long he was hosting these cooking tutorials before he was caught. Though he carefully avoided showing his face on camera, Bergara was nonetheless identified by his distinctive tattoos. The 33-year-old was consequently extradited on Monday and flown to Clarendon to face trial. 
According to NB News, when asked about the possibility of extradition to face trial for the charges Bergara faces in other nations, Basric prosecutors insisted that "there are established processes and those will be followed".
For the Basric authorities, Bergara's arrest was the latest in a string of operations aimed to weaken and expose the Covington syndicate. The Estates-Minister of the Prince's Peace, the head law-enforcement official in the country, issued a warning in November 1420 that Nieubasria has reason to believe that the syndicate is present "on each continent" and it called on each nation to recognize the international threat. 
Bergara had been living quietly in the Alcheran Riviera for at least eight months before his arrest.
 
 
Screenshot of one of the cooking videos posted by Bergara, carefully cropped away from his face but failing to cover identifiable tattoos
 

May 10th
9.20 PM IAT
"We played really well. I am happy with how the team performed. Almost all the aspects of our game was strong, the only major problem I, and most of the team found, was the unacceptable performance from the middle order. They collapsed like a toothpick structure. So we will be focusing on that perspective of our game. Sharma as amazing today, and was very important in getting us through," the Coach said in the post-match interview. "Our bowlers were outstanding, managing to limit the opposition to a mere 132 runs, in a stadium where you need to be scoring atleast 155 runs to safely defend your total," he added.
 
9.45 PM IAT
"Well done lads. That was a strong showing of your cricketing capabilities. Enjoy your first win as a team, in an important tournament nonetheless. But don't enjoy it too much. We still have a ways to go if we want to win that trophy. We will start training tomorrow for our match against Denieria the day after. So I would suggest that you rest up today. They might be a little down after such a defeat, and we need to pile onto the misery. We have to win come what may, and we will hope that elsewhere Santos-Dominius wins the match. If they manage to win against the Steelbats, then we have a guaranteed qualification. I will be reviewing their match tapes, and I tell you to train accordingly," Menaria told the team as they all sat in the locker room.
"It was a nice win lads, but the coach is right. We need to be focused. We can party all we want after we take that trophy, but till then, we are on international duty, and we will be trying our best to give the Larxian fans something to cheer for," Kohli added.
"Also, the middle order batsmen. You were very poor out there today. You need to focus on the game, and let your bat do the talking for you. You all are very capable cricketers, and I won't be dropping anyone because of one bad day, but you still need to give better performances than you just did to be in this team. That is why, you will train harder than everyone else in order to get the flow of your bat going," the coach said.
There was a general sense of happiness in the team after the victory, as they left the stadium to go back to their hotel, looking forward to training the next day, and the match with Denieria the day after, hoping to secure qualification in their second match.
 

The Fhaendhaw Spectator
 
BOUNTY ON THE INLAND SEA
10-05-1421. story by Lurienh Geonts.
Larxia. Landing in La Marina in the deep south of Andolia, the Republic's cricket team, the Bounty Hunters, went straight to the nets to stretch their legs and get the last bit of practice in before the tournament began. Facing Darkesian Sea rivals Giovanniland in the first round of the group matches, the Bounty Hunters were not going to take unnecessary risks. Fielding first, the team weren't able to make a major impact, with the conservatively playing Aurans only losing 6 wickets but also not running away with a high run score. Knowing they just had to aim for a higher run rate, the Bounty Hunters played a straight game and while losing an extra wicket, beat Giovanniland with plenty of time to spare.
Following the draw between other Auran teams Dilber and Saint Mark in the same group stage, Fhaengshia stands at the top of the group showing what Andolian cricket is all about. The host team Larxia won their match against United Adaikes, in Group A, while Hertfordshire and Jammbo couldn't quite stop the sporting powerhouse of Cambria. Overall a good result for the continental teams. Other Auran Islander teams fared better than Giovanniland with wins going to Blue Bubble, Santos-Dominius and Zoran, with Nieubasria being the other winner of the first Match Day. 
La Marina, the host for Group C and the Bounty Hunters for now, sits on Lake Falcon; the largest lake in Andolia, and is a tourist hotspot for the region. Though it's a little further away, and not as well known as the more populous capital, New Larxia, La Marina offers a new experience for the tourists with Fhaengshian fans treated to exotic seafood cooked in the southern style. Those that came to watch the Bounty Hunters have scored a bountiful treasure in this hunt for gold.

The above post by @setne550 is nullified and does not enter canon. Please refrain from posting if you are not a participant. Thank you.

Nearby a construction site in San Dojas, some members of HNDK were having a pleasant discussion. Or at least, the closest thing to that.
Diego Adamov: So, anyone want some coffee? I would highly recommend it.
Reimu Hadjieva: Nah, I prefer sake if I'm honest and if not that then tea.
Diego Adamov: I'm going to resist the urge to call that blasphemy. What about you Derek, aren't you exhausted from that operation yesterday?
Derek Sokolov: Don't worry about it I'm fine. That sort of procedure actually mirrors my first ever successful operation.
Yomiel Stasyuk: If you're that good in the surgeon profession, then where the hell were you when I almost slumped over dead?!
Derek Sokolov: I can't be everywhere you know. Besides I'm not the only surgeon in the world.
Richard Hammond: Yeah Yomiel cut him some slack.
Yuuya Kovalchuk: Enough of this. What this reminds me of is that Tenjin place I was trapped in some while ago.
Kyosuke Miķelsons: If you start rambling on about Heavenly Host again I'm going to ask Derek to suture your lips shut.
Derek Sokolov: I will do no such thing!
Yuuya Kovalchuk: I'm just saying that this building site mirrors that place in that being killed in there and being killed by me are one and the same.
Diego Adamov: In what feasible way is that a truth?
Richard Hammond: More to the point, you just said that out loud in public.
Patrick Manev: Do I hear police sirens in the distance?
Patchouli Knalide: That's just Twisted Tempo.

Robert Cherganski: Okay, how is a spinning top of all things doing something like that?
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem: Mad science can get you anywhere.
Yomiel Stasyuk: I just can't figure out why someone decided to make these a thing.
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem: This one, Twisted Tempo 145WD, was originally created by the energy and environmental researcher Dr. Ziggurat. It was meant to be the perfect energy source. Clean and renewable without any of the drawbacks.
Derek Sokolov: Well that's great!
Reimu Hadjieva: From the looks of things this is no longer the case.
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem: This is true. The good doctor was found guilty of highly unethical deeds carried out for the sake of creating Tempo.
Đe Kaiser: None of that detracts from the fact that this is almost entirely unrealistic. Next you're gonna tell me that there is now a whole sport related to these things.
Dynamis Dudka: There is. This is mine, Jade Jupiter S130RB.
Kyosuke Miķelsons: Oh give me strength, the fortune teller has got one too.
Naho Sotirova: Here I was thinking that the occult stuff me and Kou dabbled in was seen as unrealistic.
Yomiel Stasyuk: That's because it plainly is. Does it make you feel alive? Also, your mentors reporting is utter twaddle.
Diego Adamov: You've done it now.
Naho Sotirova: You're known as a dead man walking. Want me to make the dead part a reality?
Yomiel Stasyuk: I'm not afraid of you.
Reimu Hadjieva: Do you want me to exterminate you both?
Yomiel Stasyuk: Like your shrine maiden position means anything.
Reimu Hadjieva: Ah- Take that back right now!
Naho Sotirova: Don't try and stop me, miko! I'm not going to let him get away with his remarks.
Eirin Yaneva: Cease this squabbling or I'll give you all a dose of the most debilitating drug I can muster.
Reimu Hadjieva: You heard Eirin, back off. I wouldn't mess with the Hourai Pharmacist.
Yomiel Stasyuk: Ugh, fine.
Naho Sotirova: Not likely. Let me at him!
Eirin Yaneva: Someone restrain her already.
Robert Cherganski: Will do.
Naho Sotirova: Unhand me you twirling freak!
Richard Hammond: This has gone really off course. We were babbling on about unethical science or something.
Patchouli Knalide: When you really think about it, occultism and science are just alternate forms of magic.
Richard Hammond: What...
Patrick Manev: You know how Maxie said that we'd gotten more realistic? You've gone straight to fantasy.
Patchouli Knalide: It's true. Arguments will not occur over it.
Eirin Yaneva: I think we're all very tired by now.
Kyosuke Miķelsons: I know I am.
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem: All I know is that this Tempo is the greatest thing that Hertfordian science has ever come up with, or just any science period.
Yuuya Kovalchuk: I suspect you're going to tell Lisa that too.
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem: If I must, then yes.
Đe Kaiser: That can't go anywhere good.
Richard Hammond: Like your performance in the loss to Cambria?
Derek Sokolov: That's a bit harsh Hammond.
Eirin Yaneva: Speaking of loss, yes we did do that, but no one ever said the path to the top was easy.
Dynamis Dudka: Do you see it too? The destiny, that has been laid out for us.
Patrick Manev: Here we go.
Richard Hammond: I see only one thing, and that's us lot and the others at the hotel on the winners podium!
Dynamis Dudka: I admire your confidence. No one can run from it, we will emerge from this T20 World Cup as the last one standing. For that is the will of the heavens, the fate determined by the stars.
Everyone present stared blankly at Dynamis, understanding the message but unsure of whether to believe in this 'will of the heavens' he put his trust in. Even still, one person wasn't paying attention. Yomiel had spotted his cat on top of a crane and guided the others' attention towards it. It was surprisingly interesting.

May 10, 2021 9:15 PM IAT; right after the end of the game
"We batted well," Wynne Albrektsson started, when asked how he felt after the first official international game for the United Adaikes National Cricket Team, "but we bowled and fielded awfully, that's what I want to say. We're surely going to the field tomorrow to do some bowling and fielding."
When asked about their next game with Santos-Dominius, Albrektsson replied, "We've seen a little action from them earlier, they played good. But of course, the coaching staff might have already seen something that we can capitalize during our game and get us that victory. And that'll be one thing we'll be exploiting in the practice field tomorrow, aside from bowling and fielding."
 
9:20 PM IAT; in the locker room of the Steelbats
"I know that this is everyone's first official international game," Noel Laud, the head coach, points to everyone angrily, with the redness in his face visible because of his anger, "I won't name names, but where is your professionalism?! Get your head in the game when you're playing!! The youngster can even humiliate some of you because of his attitude even if he's just new to the game!"
All the players can agree that this was the first time they saw Laud throw a fit to everyone, knowing that their coach is someone who is soft-spoken. It was only about 10:30 PM when the team left the arena for their hotel.

"Hello, everyone! From New Larxia, Larxia, we at Santo-Dominian Cable-Satellite Network Channel 3 bring you live coverage of the 1st T20 World Cup! Our coverage of the 1st T20 World Cup is brought to you by our generous sponsor, the shampoo brand Scalp & Dandruff! It's the shampoo brand of choice for people conscious enough about their scalp problems to buy it but not conscious enough to do some research about the scalp on the Internet! I, the corporate-friendly sellout and commercial model that is Approctoflecticus Blubberman, will be your mildly irritating host for the entire duration for the 1st T20 World Cup."
"And let's go over the results of Match Day 1! Specifically, let's take a look at the results for Group A. We've been informed that our Santo-Dominian team has won a comfortable victory against the team from Denieria, scoring 187 and then bowling them out for 94 runs. Meanwhile, our Larxian hosts seem to be enjoying playing in their home country, as they have won against the team coming from United Adaikes! So, to recap, Santos-Dominius and Larxia each have one win in Group A, while Denieria and United Adaikes have one loss each."
"Moving onto Group B! The nice people from fellow Auran neighbour Blue Bubble - or Glenpavia as they themselves call it - have triumphed over Teralyon! Seems like Polaris is not having a good time today. But wait a minute - the next result immediately proves me wrong, as Cambria has won against the team from countryside bumpkin nation Hertfordshire & Jammbo! I previously referred to Cambria by it's full name 'Tara and Cambray', but it was pointed out by me by a Cambrian friend that referring to it as such is a bit weird. So, to appease our Cambrian viewers - assuming that Cambrians watch this ad-infested underfunded mess - I shall now permanently refer to their country as 'Cambria' and not by its full name."
"Anyways, let's get to the results for Group C! The team from Auran neighbour and suspected drugland Dilber has tied with the team from another Auran neighbour of ours - major continental power and former coloniser Saint Mark! Luckily, the other Group C did not end in an unfruitful draw, as Fhaengshia won against the Giovannilandian players! So, to recap, Fhaengshia has a win under their belt in Group C, Dilber and Saint Mark share a tie, and Giovanniland has a loss."
"And finally, Group D! Alleged rogue state and gigantic landmine store Dalimbar has lost to war-torn chaos carnival Zoran! And Dalimbari neighbour and pacifist enemy Fujai has lost to the sporty Nieubasrians as well! It seems like continental infighting made Polaris have a generally bad day today on Match Day 1, with Cambria in Group C and Nieubasria here being the only two exceptions! So to recap, in Group D, Nieubasria and Zoran each have one win, while Dalimbar and Fujai each have one loss. Quite interesting!"
"And that concludes today's coverage of the T20 World Cup! It's only Match Day 1 after all, so nations that lost today still have plenty of time to bounce back and advance to the next stage. And that's why today's winners shan't get too cocky: losing often provides strong motivation for players to win the next matches, and it's that strong motivation that can drive them to ultimately beat you! I'm Approctoflecticus Blubberman, and this was Match Day 1 of the 1st T20 World Cup. Stay tuned to SDCSN Channel 3 for direct and live coverage of the Cup as well as un-skippable sponsorship advertisements, and see you on Match Day 2! Goodbye!"

Pero and Franjo just finished their shift at the Teralyon Naval base located on a small island northeast of the mainland known as Sandrja, every few days before they head their separate ways home they stop at their favourite pub on the island to have a few pints and complain about some new stupid idea the mainlanders are coming up with and today was no exception...
Pero and Franjo walk into the pub known as the Plavi Galeb (Blue Seagul) and sit down at their favourite stools along the bar, the bar owner walks up, a burley perpetually angry man known to the locals as Toni.
Toni: You two lazy bums better order more then one pint this time if your going to start arguing again, id prefer to see some actual entertainment then you too just arguing over where your favourite cafe was located in Tarajeva.
Pero: Relax we already said we're sorry plus we were both right, that café is now a franchise so there's multiple places.
Franjo: Ugh... Mainlanders ruin everything. 
Toni: Whatever, keep it down I'm trying to watch the game.
Pero: What is that?
Toni: It's the Cricket World Cup! Don't you knuckleheads pay attention to anything besides this Island?!
Franjo: You know darn well we don't care about anything outside Teralyon
Toni: Then shut up and watch! Teralyon is playing!

"Welcome, Viewers, to the game that kicks off the Blue Runner's conquest in the T20 World Cup Tournament! How are you Jak?"
Franjo: Wait we have a Team? Why did they name them the Blue Runners?
Pero: Are we winning?
Toni: The game just started, and that's isn't our team, Its a GSN rebroadcast on TSPN, Now quiet! 
Franjo: Why do we have a team? Who's paying for this?
Pero: So let me get this straight, Were watching a sport on some channel across the world while I cant find a channel that covers the Teralyon Water Polo League?!
Toni: Only you watch that now order something and shut up.
Pero and Franjo both reply with "Two pints please."
Toni: Each?
Pero and Franjo just stare at Toni, Toni sighs..
"Oh well, I was, I mean... I cannot wait to spot Kassacira tonight, and the team were so confident. I hope that confidence pays off in the right way today. I'll bet you 5 Blues I will see her first!"
Pero: What are those subtitles saying? Whos that suppose to be? Can I get in on this bet?
Franjo: It's their leader. Don't you always brag about how smart and worldly you are? shouldn't you know this?
Toni: His hole world is this Island HAH!
Pero: Ha-Ha you just wait till I win.
Toni: Win what? They didn't shake your hand.
Pero: You just wait
Franjo slaps down a 20 Dinar bill, "I'm In"
Pero: See?
Toni sighs again and goes back to cleaning glasses
Pero: Oh and two gyros!
Toni: For bot.. nevermind.
"Welcome back to the Glenpavia Sports Network: Cricket Edition! The Teraljonska (As they say in the local language) team has just walked onto the pitch along with the Runners. I have a feeling this is going to be tough!"
Toni: Hey! Look! There's our team!
Franjo: Who picked THAT as the uniform? This must be funded by the Government.
Pero: What a stupid logo, do they have to slap that sword on EVERYTHING?!
Toni: Show some respect!
Franjo: He's right though, why couldn't they have some animal and a different colour for once?
Pero: Yea! like the Jevoi Swordfish on like some cool water blue?
Toni: Really? A Swordfish? That's What you want? Yes, lets replace the sword with a swordfish! Oh and lets use blue so we can look just like the other team who's already blue!
Pero: Well yea, but we could be bluer.
Toni: No We're Purple. Like we have always been and like it should be.
Pero: Fish would of been cooler though.
Toni: THEY HAVE A FISH!
"I mean, the Teralyon team is a very aggressive team according to training and the Glenpavian team are pretty defensive, so it's a very well evened match. We are just going to have to watch this out. Looks like… Yup! The Teralyons are going first for batting"
Franjo: Wait wasn't that guy on the rugby team?
Pero: Why are we always labeled aggressive in every sport, Its not our fault the other team isn't as dedicated.
Toni: I suspect it has something to do with the doping scandal after they found all those Soccer players going to facilites in Dilber
Franjo: That was never proven, stop spreading rumours.
Pero: Is that guy is holding the stick upside down?
Franjo: Reminds me of that dumb movie "Golfketball"
"The runners are quick- Look at that throw, right that's two runs for the Teralyon on the first bat. Very good"
Franjo: I don't get it, are we winning?
Pero: I think so?
Toni: How have you two never watched a cricket game?
Pero: I got more important things to do then watch some weird mainlander game.
Franjo: Look, I just want to know if we're winning.
Toni: You both are born on the mainland, stop using that as a excuse.
Franjo: I never said that, now answer my question.
Toni: No. Pay attention.
Franjo: *mockingly* I'll pay you attention.
Toni: What?
Franjo: Hey we hit the thing again!

"You have to credit them, they are great at what they do"
Franjo: We got this.
Pero: Basically slaughtered them.
Toni: You two are idiots.
Pero: Your just not patriotic, 'nother round!
Toni: Mainlanders......
"And that's it for the first Inning! What a good score to beat..."
Pero: We won!
"I think the Runners can totally beat it- just watch this space. We will be back!"
Pero: Guess not.
*Toni Laughs in the background*
 "And we are back, for Blue Bubble's time to bat. This is going to be fun but a lot of hard work for the team. Yup, and we have Delkee and Jakano coming up to bat first. We wish them all the luck against Bowler Nayden Polonsky."
Franjo: Wait, Polonsky? Like...
Toni: Yup.
Franjo: And now Cricket?
Toni: Yup.
Franjo: After the hole mess with..
Toni: Yup.
Pero: Shut up, I want to watch our Swords win
Toni: Oh now your a sword fan?
"Wow, the Blue Runners have really kept up with the speed of their gameplay, they may have a real chance of winning this"
Franjo: This is all Polonsky's fault.
Pero: Wait are we losing? How are we losing weren't we winning?
Toni: Get off your phone and pay attention and you'll find out.
Pero: Im watching videos trying to figure out what I'm watching since your no help.
Franjo: Classic Polonsky.
"Well, that's one way to make a statement, go Blue Runners!"
Pero: Huh, So we lost?
Franjo: Yea and its all Polonsky's fault
Toni: Not exactly.
Pero: How did we lose? I thought we won? This game makes so sense.
Toni: The other team just wanted the win more.
Franjo: Oh I didn't know we were going to give generic coach excuses, let me guess the Blue Runners had more heart too? 
Pero: Do they even have coaches in this game?
"That is one great win for the start of this tournament, I cannot wait to see what the guys bring to the next match!"
*Camera starts panning over the crowds*
Pero: Hey there's the Marshal!
Franjo: What the hell is he doing there?
Pero: Probably the same thing every state figurehead does.
Toni: Waste taxpayer money?
Franjo: If it was that useless politician we elected then yea id agree, but that's no politician.
Toni: Who knows or cares.
Pero: HEY LOOK ITS THE LEADER OF BLUE BUBBLE! WHERES MY MONEY!
Franjo: That's not them, they look like their hiding.
Pero: YES IT IS! 

Pero pulls out his smartphone and starts showing pictures of the Blue Bubble leader while Franjo and now Toni both refuse to look and give Pero their money, they continue arguing into the evening while the sunsets on another typical day on Sandrja Island.
 
(OOC: Thanks @embubbleblue for the fun collab)
 

 

Blue Bubble
Known Locally as Glenpavia
Motto: "Ahoana amana Ianao." ("Tradition and Courage")
Capital City: Kopai
Largest City: Fort Lavanda
 
Official Language: Glendulan
National Language: Glendulan, Common
Demonym: Bubblean
 
Head of Government: Kassakira Petrovikan
Currency: Blues
 

Blue Bubble - 1420AF
 
 
 

James: "Welcome, Viewers, to the game that kicks off the Blue Runner's conquest in the T20 World Cup Tournament! How are you Jak?"
Jak: "I am actually quite excited, James, I think this Tournament is a major game move for the nation in general, and the strength of our country internationally basically relies on these guys, what about you?"
James: *Laughs* "On the worlds above, beyond, and within, You are coming back with the seriousness today! I am just excited about the game play today."
Jak: "Well there has to be someone to keep you held back. Now we are in San Dojas right now, and everything is being set up"
James: "Yup, the stadium is filling up quite nicely, if you were watching the interview on the Glenpa News yesterday-"
Jak: "Oh well, I was, I mean... I cannot wait to spot Kassacira tonight, and the team were so confident. I hope that confidence pays off in the right way today."
James: "I'll bet you 5 Blues I will see her first!"
Jak: "Ooh go on, go on"
They shake hands on the bet
Jak: "Now it is a couple of minutes before the start, let's let our studio at home go over the other current matches about to start, and we will get back to you when the game starts"
James: "Sound Idea!"
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
James: "Welcome back to the Glenpavia Sports Network: Cricket Edition! The Teraljonska (As they say in the local language) team has just walked onto the pitch along with the Runners. I have a feeling this is going to be tough!"
Jak: "I mean, the Teralyon team is a very aggressive team according to training and the Glenpavian team are pretty defensive, so it's a very well evened match. We are just going to have to watch this out. Looks like… Yup! The Teralyons are going first for batting"
James: "Remember this is T20, so there are 20 overs in an inning, and each team has one Inning. Very Fast and very quick"
Jak: "Yup and its Evabder Sibel up to bowl. She can be ruthless with the ball."
James: "It is Zan Grabower to hit, He is tough, very strong. Leslaw is on the other wicket. Good pairing"
Jak: "We have our trusty Delkee and Trenin on wicketkeeping, Honest men"
James: "And Evabder Bowls the first ball of the runner's tournment.."
Jak: "He has only bloody gone and hit it… The ball bounces… The men are running…"
James:"The runners are quick- Look at that throw, right that's two runs for the Teralyon on the first bat. Very good"
Jak: "You have to credit them, they are great at what they do"
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Jak: "And that is the first half of the Teralyon Inning. Here is the runs board so far. Very heavy round, very impressive too."
James: "I hope everyone at home is loving the almost aggressive game play between Pakand and Kander- 3 Players out. Utterly amazing"

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
James: "And that's it for the first Inning! What a good score to beat..."
Jak: "I think the Runners can totally beat it- just watch this space. We will be back!"

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Jak: "And we are back, for Blue Bubble's time to bat. This is going to be fun but a lot of hard work for the team."
James: "Yup, and we have Delkee and Jakano coming up to bat first. We wish them all the luck against Bowler Nayden Polonsky."
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
James: "That's it for the first half of the second Inning, lets look at the scores!"
Jak: "Wow, the Blue Runners have really kept up with the speed of their gameplay, they may have a real chance of winning this"

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Jak: "Well, that's one way to make a statement, go Blue Runners!"
James: "That is one great win for the start of this tournament, I cannot wait to see what the guys bring to the next match!"
Jak: "The Blue Runners are leading into the next match of the round-robin, stay tuned for results of the other matches!"

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Meanwhile at the stands
"Lodi, have they found me yet?"
"No Kass, still nothing" Her advisor replies, looking at her phone as they leave the seats
"I mean, my team played so well, on the worlds above, beyond and within, When is the next game?"
"I really dont know yet. I thought you were here to do some networking?" Lodi looks up at her
She shakes her head "You know I don't trust other nations."
Lodi sighs "I mean, if you just gave them a chance?"
"If a nation which isn't Giovanniland shows me some kind of respect, then maybe, MAYBE I'll think about it?"
"You have to watch your rating though"
"That is true. I'll think about changing my mind on that then, I suppose" Kass sighs.
 
 

James: "Welcome, Viewers, to the game that kicks off the Blue Runner's conquest in the T20 World Cup Tournament! How are you Jak?"
Jak: "I am actually quite excited, James, I think this Tournament is a major game move for the nation in general, and the strength of our country internationally basically relies on these guys, what about you?"
James: *Laughs* "On the worlds above, beyond, and within, You are coming back with the seriousness today! I am just excited about the game play today."
Jak: "Well there has to be someone to keep you held back. Now we are in San Dojas right now, and everything is being set up"
James: "Yup, the stadium is filling up quite nicely, if you were watching the interview on the Glenpa News yesterday-"
Jak: "Oh well, I was, I mean... I cannot wait to spot Kassacira tonight, and the team were so confident. I hope that confidence pays off in the right way today."
James: "I'll bet you 5 Blues I will see her first!"
Jak: "Ooh go on, go on"
They shake hands on the bet
Jak: "Now it is a couple of minutes before the start, let's let our studio at home go over the other current matches about to start, and we will get back to you when the game starts"
James: "Sound Idea!"
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
James: "Welcome back to the Glenpavia Sports Network: Cricket Edition! The Teraljonska (As they say in the local language) team has just walked onto the pitch along with the Runners. I have a feeling this is going to be tough!"
Jak: "I mean, the Teralyon team is a very aggressive team according to training and the Glenpavian team are pretty defensive, so it's a very well evened match. We are just going to have to watch this out. Looks like… Yup! The Teralyons are going first for batting"
James: "Remember this is T20, so there are 20 overs in an inning, and each team has one Inning. Very Fast and very quick"
Jak: "Yup and its Evabder Sibel up to bowl. She can be ruthless with the ball."
James: "It is Zan Grabower to hit, He is tough, very strong. Leslaw is on the other wicket. Good pairing"
Jak: "We have our trusty Delkee and Trenin on wicketkeeping, Honest men"
James: "And Evabder Bowls the first ball of the runner's tournment.."
Jak: "He has only bloody gone and hit it… The ball bounces… The men are running…"
James:"The runners are quick- Look at that throw, right that's two runs for the Teralyon on the first bat. Very good"
Jak: "You have to credit them, they are great at what they do"
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Jak: "And that is the first half of the Teralyon Inning. Here is the runs board so far. Very heavy round, very impressive too."
James: "I hope everyone at home is loving the almost aggressive game play between Pakand and Kander- 3 Players out. Utterly amazing"

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
James: "And that's it for the first Inning! What a good score to beat..."
Jak: "I think the Runners can totally beat it- just watch this space. We will be back!"

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Jak: "And we are back, for Blue Bubble's time to bat. This is going to be fun but a lot of hard work for the team."
James: "Yup, and we have Delkee and Jakano coming up to bat first. We wish them all the luck against Bowler Nayden Polonsky."
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
James: "That's it for the first half of the second Inning, lets look at the scores!"
Jak: "Wow, the Blue Runners have really kept up with the speed of their gameplay, they may have a real chance of winning this"

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Jak: "Well, that's one way to make a statement, go Blue Runners!"
James: "That is one great win for the start of this tournament, I cannot wait to see what the guys bring to the next match!"
Jak: "The Blue Runners are leading into the next match of the round-robin, stay tuned for results of the other matches!"

──────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Meanwhile at the stands
"Lodi, have they found me yet?"
"No Kass, still nothing" Her advisor replies, looking at her phone as they leave the seats
"I mean, my team played so well, on the worlds above, beyond and within, When is the next game?"
"I really dont know yet. I thought you were here to do some networking?" Lodi looks up at her
She shakes her head "You know I don't trust other nations."
Lodi sighs "I mean, if you just gave them a chance?"
"If a nation which isn't Giovanniland shows me some kind of respect, then maybe, MAYBE I'll think about it?"
"You have to watch your rating though"
"That is true. I'll think about changing my mind on that then, I suppose" Kass sighs.
 
 

Somewhere in the executive capital Great Parndon (Specifically, next to a road waiting for the transport to arrive.)
King/Tsar Mečislavs I of House Deben: Well this isn't exactly the most glamorous way to get to the T20 World Cup if I'm being honest. I feel very conspicuous right now.
Prime Minister Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani 'Clarkson': To be quite frank, the nation you and I preside over isn't exactly the most high end nation on this planet. In fact, I'd say we are one of the furthest from high end.
Mečislavs Deben: I know that, but come on. I'm the King, the head of state, and you're the Prime Minister, the head of government. Don't you think that we, holding the two highest posts in the land, should be getting at least a little bit of luxury when we travel?
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Don't say that too loudly, that mob over there will tear us asunder if you do.
Mečislavs Deben: Those hippies currently exchanging doses of drugs? Not bloody likely.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: They are on Dilberian drugs by the looks of it.
Mečislavs Deben: How in the name of all that's holy did Dilberian drugs make it into this country?!
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Don't ask me, ask the border officials.
Mečislavs Deben: Let's just leave it then. Hmm? Is that our ride?
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: It has arrived, earlier than usual might I add. That is quite rare when it comes to things related to me.
Mečislavs Deben: Uh, hang on a minute! There's quite an elephant in the room.

Mečislavs Deben: It's a hearse! It's what you put dead people in, you imbecile.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Yes, it is a hearse. More specifically this is the Ecnalubma, the hearse that James May converted into an ambulance. He allowed us to use it so long as we didn't make any mess whatsoever in the car.
Mečislavs Deben: I can't believe we have to go to Larxia in this.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: It's brilliant! There's even a lovely bed and chair in the back if you want to relax in comfort.
Mečislavs Deben: Well, nothing I can do about it, let's get going. Hey you, person in the tow truck, thanks for bringing this over.
'Person in the Tow Truck': You're welcome Kingie. Also, I have a name.
Mečislavs Deben: Yes yes, I realise that Jeremy.
Jeremy Clarkson: No problem, see you around.
Mečislavs Deben: Goodbye.
Jeremy Clarkson: Every bone in May's crotch. That's what I'm going to break.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Uhm... right, whatever. Shall we go now?
???: Hold on just a minute
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani:  Kaiser? Isaac and Patrick too? What are you all doing here?
Đe Kaiser: We're here to catch a ride with you to the T20 World Cup. The team left us behind when they took the tractors there.
Patrick Manev: Indeed. As a bonus, the funds I can get from helping the health service in the Larxian nation can go towards finding a way to wake my comatose wife.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Wait, Tracy Manev is still in a coma? I'm surprised you're still going. You're quite the persistent healthcare professional.
Patrick Manev: I won't stop for anything or anyone. I will use everything in mine and my Hands of Asclepius' power to achieve my goal.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Praise where it's due, that's quite lovely.
Mečislavs Deben: Doesn't change the fact that you're meant to be in prison for unleashing that virus group NEO-GUILT back in 1415.
Đe Kaiser: Actually Patrick's sentence ended a couple of weeks ago. Went under the radar amongst all the news headlines about nonsense that no one needs to know about.
Mečislavs Deben: I see. That's the most lenient sentence I've ever bared ears to.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Regardless, we're all here now so you three players can get into the back of the 'hearsebulance'. Actually speaking of medical jargon, the player Derek, a master surgeon, and assistant coach Eirin, a miracle pharmacist, are both part of the same profession as Patrick.
Mečislavs Deben: That saves me having to ask about the HNDK's medical team.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Aye. What amazes me is that Kaiser there is still going at this point. The sporting legend has been at it for 25 years now.
Đe Kaiser: I am a fighting machine. My name? Đe Kaiser! I don't intend to retire anytime soon.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Alright we get the point. We're leaving now alright, so get in the hearse already. Come on Isaac, you're coming too you know.
Isaac Myroshnychenko: Okay.
Mečislavs Deben: I'm amazed this 5 year old is even here. Are HNDK really this desperate?
Patrick Manev: I have heard legends about this boy. Apparently he managed to survive battles with his mother, Satan, himself, his own corpse, the Antichrist, Satan but much larger, his mother but undead, the sin of greed with a huge ass buff, the embodiment of his own death, the embodiment of his own mind, the embodiment of radical televangelists, the Horsemen of the Apocalypse and THE false god. This relates to the Church of the Countryside by the way. Besides, he should at least be good enough to do this if the HNDK have chosen him.
Isaac Myroshnychenko: N-no, I just...
Đe Kaiser: Go home Patrick, you're drunk.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Are you sure this isn't just him venting his childhood trauma at the hands of his abusive religious fanatic of a mum? I mean, that's why he permanently lives with his father now if I recall correctly.
Isaac Myroshnychenko: Yeah.
Patrick Manev: On second thought, that idea is far more grounded in reality.
Mečislavs Deben: That's cleared up then. Also, you can put your hat and suit in the back with the others. 
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Cheers for clearing that up, slightly unnecessary but I'll be grateful nonetheless.
Mečislavs Deben: Enough dawdling around, hit the accelerator Clarkov! I'll just inform the HNDK of the need to change their official roster posted earlier on.
Clarkov Jammbonevych Furutani: Let our trip to Larxia and the T20 World Cup commence! About time too.
 
With that, the three players, the king/tsar and the prime minister all departed in the Ecnalubma for the trip to Larxia. They would drop the players off at the training grounds just beyond the outskirts of San Dojas, where the Faltech Arena the HNDK will be playing their T20 cricket matches is, before heading to the hotel where the king/tsar and PM would stay for the duration of the tournament. The Ecnalubma would be parked safely in the facilities nearby the hotel.

The Larxian National Team went on to face the Adaikesian National Team in their first match in the T20 World Cup. The 92,000 capacity stadium was almost full for the match between Larxia and United Adaikes. The crowd containes seas of blue jersey and there were a few green jerseys, mostly concentrated in the lower eastern block of the stadium.
The toss was won by the Larxian captain, who decided that he wanted to bowl first. The Adaikesian team had to bat first. "It just looks like a pitch that would help a bowler more in the earlier hours of the match. I would expect it to be a comparatively low scoring match, with the bowlers giving amazing performances," Virat Kohli said, when asked why he chose to bowl first.
The match started with 2 Adaikesian batsmen in the middle. Bumrah opened the bowling along with Boult. Both of these bowlers bowled really well, with Bumrah registering figures of 3-19 in 4 overs and Boult registering 1-14 in 4 overs. While the bowlers were not very successful, in terms of wickets taken, they did manage to restrict the Adaikesians to a mere 132 runs scored in 20 overs, at an average of 6.6 runs per over. The team was extremely formidable in the field, with only 1 misfield in the whole match. Rabada had a match to forget after registering figures of 0-29 in 4 overs.
There was a small break of 20 minutes between the two innings for the players to rest. The crowd was consumed with excitement, so much so that they didn't even realise that the break was 20 minutes long.
The second innings began with Kohli and Sharma in the middle. Both of them played really well, racking up a partnership of 65 runs in just 7 overs in the middle. The match looked to be going well for Larxia, until Kohli got out, scoring 23 runs, making the score 65/1. After Kohli got out, most of the batting order collapsed, scoring in single figures before getting out, only 1 batsman crossed the 10 run mark. The score went form 65/1 to 98/6. While the batting order was collapsing on the other end, Rohit Sharma was playing a Vice-Captain's innings, holding down the fort, and taking Larxia towards a victory. Sharma carried Larxia close to victory. The score was 127/6 in 14 overs. Larxia needed 6 runs in 6 overs. Sharma faced the next ball, which he dispatched into the stands for a maximum, winning the game for Larxia with almost 6 overs to spare. Sharma batted really well, scoring 89 runs in the innings. 
The losing captain was interviewed on the podium, followed by the winning captain. Then they announced Rohit Sharma as the man of the match. He was given a little trophy and a cheque for 20,000 dollars.
Elsewhere Santos-Dominius managed to get a 93 run victory against Denieria in their first match of the tournament. It will be interesting to see how the in-form Larxia fare against Denieria in the second match.
 

Coach Waterman paced in front of his assembled team.
"A draw isn't a bad first showing ... but it isn't good either. We can't rely on our offense to do everything. Czarnecki's four consecutive sixes followed by twos four were amazing, especially given his recent shoulder issues. Katie, your batting was so well-placed, you'd think you were using telekinesis. Tristan, nice read on when to run.
Our fielding was solid, but a little slower than what I know we can do. That cost us. Hunter, you missed a couple of easy catches, but I know you feel badly enough about it. It's ok. This is your first big tournament. You're young and nervous. You'll settle in. Lucy, I don't know how you do it. Your bowling isn't particularly fast, but more often than not you fool the batters. They seem to lose focus facing you. Hal, sometimes I feel you were over thinking your pitches. Just focus on getting into your rhythm. Your googly was terrific, though! Very well-played!
All-in-all, it was a good match. We're warming up. We're a great team. I know we'll get there!"
 

T20 World Cup Matchday 1 - Review - Defeat
 149/6 (19.1 overs)
 148/9 (20 overs)
Cambria won against Hertfordia Heathens by 4 wickets
Batting   Runs Bats Fours Sixes Đe Kaiser 7 5 0 1 Bowled Yomiel Stasyuk 55 43 9 0 Bowled Diego Adamov 11 12 0 0 Caught Patchouli Knalide 40 18 7 2 Run out Faust Ḩarełeudeiem 13 10 2 0 Not out Dynamis Dudka 6 5 1 0 Bowled Derek Sokolov 2 5 0 0 Caught Reimu Hadjieva 10 10 1 0 Caught Yuuya Kovalchuk 1 5 0 0 Bowled Patrick Manev 3 7 0 0 Caught Scorers of Wickets: Robert Cherganski (3), Richard Hammond (1), Kyosuke Miķelsons (1), Naho Sotirova (1)
 
Đe Kaiser - A typical performance really. A six on his first bat showed everyone that he still had it. The next few bats showed everyone that he really didn't.
Yomiel Stasyuk - Arguably the star performer for Hertfordia Heathens, needing the equivalent of 25 bats to reach a score of 55. Not bad for a so-called dead man walking. If anyone is wondering about the fact that he clearly got 18 runs with 0, that is possible in cricket. We found that out a few hours earlier.
Diego Adamov - Didn't exactly take things quickly. One run at a time here, not quite ideal for high run scoring.
Patchouli Knalide - The librarian of knowledge and shade, if not Yomiel then she was the top performer. Scoring 7 fours and 2 sixes, meaning she needed just 9 runs to make 40, before her progress screeched to a halt. No wonder, this 'Eastern style Western magician' is actually rather sickly and probably wasn't feeling well. Again.
Faust Ḩarełeudeiem - This guy probably wasn't expecting the arrival and flag plant debacle, so wasn't really on point when he came late on. If he was, we might have won this match. Still, he was still in by the time our allocated innings, and 20 overs, had concluded.
Dynamis Dudka: Didn't do much to help his case, either in selection for cricket matches or convincing his colleagues that the 'will of the heavens' actually exists. A solitary 4 was a highlight of the match though.
Derek Sokolov - Done almost nothing at all and just as well, for a citizen had become gravely injured just outside the stadium in a crash. We can report that he succeeded in the on-site operation.
Reimu Hadjieva - One name for Hertfordshire and Jammbo's cricket team is the Hertfordia Shrine Maidens, which came 3rd in the poll behind Heathens & Snowstorm. Enter the actual shrine maiden, who was one of the better performers really despite only earning 10 runs. That score isn't likely to help earn any shrine donations, what little she ever sees anyway.
Yuuya Kovalchuk - The solitary run followed by a lorry full of nothing. Unlike Derek, he had no excuse for that pitiful display.
Patrick Manev - Done rather well when he came on near the end. Consistent, but what looked like a clear six was cancelled with a superb catch right at the edge by a Cambrian fielder. Well done to that guy, through gritted teeth might we add. Despite the performance then, he had almost nothing to show for it.
 
So, if you are confused about this new reporting format, here we are to explain it. Each cricket result we have will receive the most complicated looking scoreboard we have ever seen as well as judgements on each of the batters that took part. We will also have the wicket takers, those who were successful in dismissing the opposition players below the main scoreboard itself. Do not ask us to report on it like the rugby and football lot do, because we know the square root of nothing about cricket. That, and also because if we did, the report would have the same levels of boredom as one of Prime Minister Clarkov's explanations. Death by boredom would be appropriate.
Anyway, as you all saw, we were narrowly defeated by the larger of the two Astorian nations, Tara & Cambray Cambria by 4 wickets. This is because Cambria surpassed our score by a single run with 4 wickets (that's 4 batters) to spare. They achieved this target with 5 bats remaining, so it really was crunch time when the final over of the second innings began. In our next match we shall do battle with Teralyon who were defeated by, er, Blue Bubble? Glenpavia? Oh whatever you get what we mean. So we shall see you on the next report. Also, we thought we would also give you results from other matches but in a way that will brighten up your days back in the dismal cold place we call home after our unfortunate loss. Never mind that the scores are already on display!
 
Matchday 1 - Results
--------------------------------------------------
Group A
Hosts Close By - 133/6 (14.1 overs)
Steelbats, Not Steelbacks! - 132/4 (20 overs)
 
From The Continent That Time Forgot - 94 (17.1 overs)*
Infernal Sponsor Islands - 187/7 (20 overs)
--------------------------------------------------
Group B
Bluebublenpavia - 145/2 (15.4 overs)
Sword At A Bat Fight - 141/5 (20 overs)
 
Polaris Supremacy Gang - 149/6 (19.1 overs)
Middle Of Scenic Nowhere - 148/9 (20 overs)
--------------------------------------------------
Group C
Drug Facility - 155/4 (20 overs)**
The Aristocrat - 155/2 (20 overs)
 
Home To Esferos' Most Baffling Language - 144/7 (15 overs)*
Corporate Invasion Landing Point - 141/6 (20 overs)
--------------------------------------------------
 
Group D
Your Friendly Neighbourhood Landmine Junta - 142/7 (20 overs)*
Guess Who Won The Civil War - 198/8 (20 overs)*
 
Frozen Northern Hippies - 146/6 (20 overs)
Adblocker Required - 164/2 (20 overs)
--------------------------------------------------
* = Denieria, Fhaengshia, Dalimbar & Zoran have not yet submitted official logos for their cricket team.
** = This is not the official Dilberian "cricket" team logo, we just put it there for laughs. We're not sorry.
 
                                  

Results of the 1st Match Day for the First Round

Ghomhoeria Tahdaoni ae Kahrijaec   -   Republic Cricket Association
Fhaengshian First XI - The Bounty Hunters
 
Batting Order
Number Name Handed Bowling Style Territory 1 Jeinn Haendohf
RH - UG 2 Fusthien Leiluo
RH - LG 3 Palsin Tosird
LH - TR 4 Cudoelf Errihdas (C)
RH - SH 5 Ealoin Nakienh
LH Medium-fast FH 6 Safdli Arielnk
RH *Wicket keeper SH 7 Iotehps Mhaedhe
RH Medium-fast NS 8 Likleffi Bhoemo
RH Fast AH 9 Cahre Otiel
RH Off spin LG 10 Rhise Tosird
LH Fast AN 11 Ehrtain Mehrndalie
RH Leg spin FH Coach: Fienuf Duegghi
Manager: Kasnieht Uneifhi
Home Stadium: Fhaendhaw Capital Stadium - 83,500 capacity
Local Cricket: There is a club based competition held nationally with 10 teams from major cities, including 3 from Fhaendhaw and 2 from Ganfa.
 

May 9, 1421; 7:30 PM IAT; Inside the premier function room in an undisclosed hotel for the Steelbats in Nexilia
"So, it's going to be the hosts first, then Santos-Dominius, and then Denieria," the oldest in the team (and the second-most respected person after the captain), Kalyana Ceallachain said while looking at the TV screen showing the Opening Ceremony live from New Larxia, the others looking on. The captain, Wynne Albrektsson, as well as Noel Laud, the coach, was in New Larxia for the Ceremony.
"My mother's still asking me how did it feel meeting the president," Akpofure Garey, the youngest, spoke to anyone who would listen, "but my father is asking me why the hell is the President here in Larxia with some of his Cabinet." But he was covered by the screams of the other team members, "WYNNE!!" every time they see their captain in the TV.
 
9:30 PM IAT
"Okay," Albert Burgos, the Conditioning Coach, breaks the silence of those still watching the ceremony and others fiddling with their phones, "the coaching staff have heard that this'll end by around midnight, so Coach has told me to give you lights out by 10. We need you to be in top condition tomorrow. We will also be waking everyone up by 5 AM, for y'all to prepare for breakfast by 6 AM, and then go to the stadium by 7:30. Coach and Wynne will meet us there by that time. Any questions?" Hearing none, "okay, you can now go back to your rooms."