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ONE of the last of the Fish Hoek Cricket Club's re-grouped first team after WW II, Bernard (Bernie) Frieslaar, has died at the age of 95 following a stroke. He had been living in Plumstead.

When the cricketers regrouped, after what must have seemed to be a timeless Test victory against Cpl. Hitler, many had lost the fire and skills they once had. For me, then, (Mr) Bernie Frieslaar was my favourite. He was the wittiest of them all and, as the subject of much of the rag-pulling, he always had the best response. Jokes and teasing about his deference to his wife, the "Duchess", gave me an early idea of what the joke "she who must be obeyed" would mean in later life.

I recall Bernie as a very quick bowler who was always good for a few early wickets. He was of medium build and came in off a moderate run up. He was one of those bowlers who almost slid the ball in with no great lift. Bernie was no batsman. He would always excuse himself by saying that he was saving himself either for his bowling - or the Duchess. Wonderful, youthful days with wonderful people. Finally, all gone now.

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