At the time CJ leaves for the Oval, it is raining hard. Nonetheless the optimist is off. Shortly after arriving at the Bodyline Bar, he realizes that if the game isn't played, at least the draining of the field will be entertaining.
When the tarp is pulled off the pitch in a way to drain the water, it leaves a pond that is visible between the pitch and the tarp. Adelaide Oval is renown for its drainage. Four groundskeepers with huge push drums walk back and forth through the pond forcing the water into the ground and toward whatever drainage system lies beneath the Oval. Enough passes and the water disappears.
As the tarp is rolled up, the teams take the field for warm-ups.
The final phase is a roll of the wicket, gas-powered blowers, and two ATV's pulling a rope to distribute water for drainage.
CJ is saving two seats for Meredith. Carol is texting to get her status. She decided to blow it off and have dinner with her daughter until Carol told her the field was getting in shape and they planned to play. She's dining within a few blocks and is soon seated with CJ.
In cricket, games get shortened when there is a rain delay. Tonight we are playing 14 overs instead of 20.
CJ gets a text message. Nick asks if there are seats in the Bodyline. CJ saves him two places and shortly after Nick and girlfriend arrive. Who is Nick? One of CJ's friends through Louis; one of the drinking group, one of the fellows in the beer tasting group.
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