James 'Plugger' Simon. The man, the myth!
A lot of responsibility comes with Captain OSCC's premier and most successful side, but this man could do it in his sleep and often does. Too many he is just a loveable larrikin who loves a beer and his sport. However to 11 elite athletes each weekend, he is their god. Waugh, Border, Ponting, Simon...... All names synonymous with great leadership and it's time Plug was given the credit he so richly deserves! Sure he's got the ability to whip one of his pads ala Mark Waugh..... Sure he can turn the ball further than Murali on a dusty Sri Lankan deck...... Sure he'd probably have Monaghetti covered in a marathon..... But what really makes this man great is his inspirational leadership and commitment to his beloved team! Please feel free to express your thoughts and share some magnificent "Plugger stories"....
13.10.07 - Plugger sent out to bat with 9 balls left in the Scotch innings, batting with Hugh Sinclair, Plug didn't face a ball, the ball didn't touch the rope but the team still amased 20 runs thanks to Pluggers sacrificial running.... Plugger hasn't spoken to Hugh since
20.10.07 - After Plugger bowls himself (probably a maiden), he decides not continue with another over for the tactical reason of "i just can't be f$#@ed"....... Pure cricketing genius 28.10.07 - Hilda is upset that his playing shirt is too big. Plugger informs him that you can shrink your playing shirt by washing it in hot water and putting it through the dryer a couple of times.
9.02.08 - Plugger gives an inspirational speech before a game after a big night watching Kanye West at Good Vibrations.
'Guys, I was having a chat to a mate of mine last night and he said to me, "Plug...what doesn't kill you, only makes you stronger". So I had about a thowsand beers last night and it didn't kill me, so I must be stronger, and that's all we need to do today.... get out there boys'
We won.
20.10.08 - Plugger goes against his regular tactic and wins a toss. He then decides we will bat and without saying another word walks to square leg to umpire for 20 overs.
8.11.08 - Plugger misses his first game in the seconds for 7 years due to commitments with a number of ladies at the races. He calls repeatedly from Revellers at 3.38am asking if we won, even after being informed that we did several times earlier in the day. He is very satisfied with the victory and has a celebratory Marky Mark.
9.11.08 - Plugger turns up to cricket still intoxicated and feeling the effects from Stakes Day. Thrown the ball to bowl, he proceeds to spear a deliver at first slip Scott Haines' head.... He opens the batting and is the only person to lose their wicket. He is not seen for the rest of the day as he tries to cool off.
12.12.08 - The 350 Christmas Party is missing something. With the derby on the next day, many of the young bucks from the seconds feel like they need some leadership.
Plugger is called.
Already in his boxer shorts he decides that his team needs him so he throws on some clothes (still looks immaculate) and heads over to 350. He calls Woody from the front door so that Woody can escort him in and give him the proper entrance he deserves. He imparts wisdom and knowledge for the rest of the night captivating his audience before a hasty exit before midnight.
Many call it the greatest night of their life. 27.06.09 - Spargo Farm Party - |




