Boys in the Bubble

The way we look to a distant constellation

That's dying in a corner of the sky

These are the days of miracle and wonder

And don't cry, baby, don't cry

Fantasy Bob is reminded of Paul Simon's excellent song The Boy in the Bubble when he reads the speculation that part of the framework for easing the current lockdown will involve nominating a bubble of ten people with whom one would be allowed to associate in various settings.  

We shall all be boys in the bubble.  These are indeed days of miracle and wonder - and much else besides.

FB hasn't seen any detailed guidance on personal bubble formation.  Crticketers will be quick to see the difficulties.  You get your five batsmen.  You get your four bowlers.  Do you choose the extra bat or another bowler?  Is selecting an additional batsman a sign of weakness - revealing a concern about the fragility of the top order?  Or can it be an aggressive move allowing the top order to go for it knowing that there is some insurance in the extended line up?  

This conundrum has focussed decisions about wicket-keeping too - in the current England set up Buttler plays to deepen the batting effort and keep wicket.  Doni performed this role many years for India, who have even used Raul Dravid at a wicket keeper.  Sangakarra also returned to keeping to strengthen Sri Lanka's ODI line up.  

So difficult decisions lie ahead.  It is not clear that there are enough wicket keeper batsmen to go round all the bubbles.  Mrs FB has already made it clear to FB in no uncertain terms that he can forget about her taking up that role.  Her only rightful place is, as ever, at the very top of the order.  She is not talking about batting either.

On the other hand, it is not clear whether FB will meet the rigorous selection criteria for Mrs FB's bubble.  Her original draft nominated her horse at a significant place in the batting order.

These are indeed days of miracle and wonder.