The Year of the Dragon

We have just entered the Year of the Dragon. Indeed, to dip a little further into Chinese astrology, we have just entered the Year of the Water Dragon. Fantasy Bob discovers that he was born in the year of the Water Dragon.

This is hugely significant.  As FB researched the mysteries of Chinese astrology, he discovered that his fate was written in the stars at birth.  There is only one position that could fulfil that destiny - skipper of the Carlton All Star 4th XI.

Consider the evidence.  The Chinese dragon is not seen as a threatening evil being as we do in the west - the Chinese associate the dragon with power and wisdom. In Chinese astrology therefore a dragon person is special, they are powerful and wise. The Chinese Year of the Dragon person stands out. There is a certain aura about them. Is this not how the cricket world regards FB? FB is too modest to blow his own trumpet on the wisdom and power angles but concedes that the reference to aura suggests he should change his socks more frequently.

Water has a calming effect on the Dragon's fearless temperament allowing it to re-direct its enthusiasm, and makes it more perceptive of others. These Dragons are better equipped to take a step back to re-evaluate a situation because they understand the art of patience and do not desire the spotlight like other Dragons. Therefore, they make smart decisions and are able to see eye-to-eye with other people. However, their actions can go wrong if they do not research or if they do not finish one project before starting another.

It is uncanny. Any one who has seen FB turn down successive LBW appeals from highly excitable junior bowlers; or who has seen FB stoically declining a quick single out of concern for the hamstrings of his batting partner; or has seen his ability to secure the final empire biscuit on the tea table for himself through empathic and silent communication with his team mates; or who has been in the same dressing room with his calm, indeed comatose, indecision immediately before going out to the toss will know how accurate this description is.  These Chinese know a thing or two.  And they managed all this without actually meeting FB.

There are more babies born in Dragon years than in any other animal years of the Zodiac.  So a boom in  future 4th XI skippers is expected.