Retirement Calling

The most aesthetically pleasing bat of the collection, number ten is the author’s favourite batting position – read highest batting position. By 2011 the unit had become surgically efficient, removing dozens of Al Quaeda and Taliban senior leaders from the battlefield; ranging from ground commanders to General level equivalents. In the process the unit earned a reputation as ‘Bearded Phantoms’ from respectful enemies. Tarin Kowt in Uruzgan and other surrounding areas were stable, schools and hospitals were functioning, and food and aid were getting to long suffering local populations. This bat was used to relax playing hallway cricket on the famed Fatimah’s Arms wicket, where damage from motor bikes and various liquids made for a sticky wicket. At the completion of this tour and after several close calls, the author reluctantly contemplated retirement with family and friends upon return to Perth.