Coloratura

Fantasy Bob recognises that he should be using his evenings wisely.  Current circumstances preclude further honing his world famous in-swinger beyond its present state of perfection. 

He should therefore making the most of time by for example studying Wisden to improve his uncertain understanding of the roots of the game.  This would, after all, be an investment worth making - it would add considerably to his allure as and when the authorities allow dinner parties to recommence (whether under an adaptation of physically distancing rules or free-form).  Even as it is, there are times when Mrs FB has had to beg him to cease his fascinating discourse on such matters as Bapu Nadkarni's record 21 consecutive maiden overs simply because the company found it just too entertaining - at least that's what he thinks she said.  But with a little applied study he is sure he could find more conversational gold to fascinate.

FB was therefore a little surprised when Mrs FB tore the yellow volume from his grasp and bade him enjoy the live streaming by the Metropolitan Opera of Rossini's La Cenerentola.  This may be a very entertaining retelling of the Cinderella story but there was little of interest to the cricketer in it, as far as FB could see.

But what there is is coloratura singing of the highest order - and lots of it.  This is singing with highly elaborate ornamentation.  Its cricketing equivalent might possibly be an innings by AB deVilliers where ramps, scoops and reverse sweeps dazzle and delight.  Or a spell by Shane Warne where anything can happen.

Here then is the AB deVilliers of the Met, the wonderful Ms Joyce diDonato in the very final aria from La Cenerentola.

Superb.  How much net practice did it take her to be able to do that?