I never met Bob Woolmer. I'd heard about his innovations as a coach and how he set new standards in making preparations for his team. But I have this moment I'll carry for a long time. Bob was coaching Pakistan and it was the test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground against Australia. Pakistan were in a near hopeless situation. With only around 4 second innings wickets left, they still remained behind Australia in runs with Australia able to bat again if needed.
I'd taken my daughter Olivia to the final day's play. I noticed Bob standing near the fence watching his players train before the first session. I sent Olivia down to him to say if Pakistan could manage a 150 run lead, you just never know. Olivia was only ten and often shy but she bounded down to him. He was so warm to her. He had a couple of jokes with her, said it'd take more than 150 runs and signed her hat. I later thought how good was this man to give her the time of day when a likely crushing victory was about to take place against his side.
There's a saying that whatever you wear and whatever you own will make no difference in 100 years.But if you mattered to a child that could make a difference. I believe Bob Woolmer knew that when he gave a little kid his time. Olivia still remembers. And with a lot of sadness but a happy memory as well, today we took out that hat and hung it where everyone who comes to our house will see it. Rest in peace Bob. Peter
