Florence

Had events not intervened, Fantasy Bob and Mrs FB would have just returned from the banks of the Arno after their intended visit to Florence.  The arrangements had long been made and a room with a view secured.  Plans had been drawn up for the glut of plazzaos, piazzas, paintings and pasta that would have filled the trip. But it was not to be.

There are many reasons to visit Florence. Cricket is not among them, the game being savagely under-represented in the works of Botticelli or Michelangelo.  But for those tiring of the endless Renaissance masterpieces, Florence is not without sporting interest.

Every June teams drawn from different districts of the city take to the Piazza Santa Croce to play Calcio Fiorentino - an early form of football originating in the Renaissance period, although some historians think it itself is a revival of a Roman game.  It is played in historic costume and preceded by much parading with banners. 

This contest is not for the fainthearted.  Calcio Fiornetino can be described as a mash-up of soccer, rugby and all-in wrestling.  Compared to it, Aussie Rules Football (the game without rules) is seriously over-regulated and for wimps only.  Over the years there have been severe injuries, including death. In earlier times, rival gambling factions might release bulls into the playing area in hopes of adding confusion and inciting victory.  It may be slightly gentler now, but the modern version of calcio has not changed much from its historical roots, which allow tactics such as head-butting, punching, elbowing, and choking.  Kicks to the head are currently banned.  It is also prohibited for more than one player to attack an opponent.   

Inevitably the 2020 event has been postponed from the traditional June date.  It is hoped to stage it later in the year.  So a retimed visit to Florence for Fantasy Bob could coincide with the rescheduling.  If that were the case, lower league cricketers in the East of Scotland might have to watch out when play resumes lest FB bring any Calcio tricks home with him.