The sperm whales’ loss is Cricketweb XI’s gain with Matt “Mikey” Smith’s return from the Antarctic wilderness for the forthcoming season – the 14th in the competition’s history.
The something-year-old native of the South Island of New Zealand has spent the last year in the chilly waters off the Antarctic coast, participating in research surrounding the breeding patterns of sperm whales, based on the good ship “Lollipop”.
Smith, a brooding yet handsome man who has been compared in recent times to a ***ier George Clooney without a kooky pot-bellpig fetish, also underwent back surgery after a rogue harpoon from a neighbouring Japanese whaling vessel lodged itself between his L5/S1 vertebrae.
But after recuperation at the hands of a lithe Eskimo Indian who – inexplicably – is said to have been holidaying in Antarctica at the time of Smith’s unfortunate spearing, Smith believes he’s fighting fit.
“The biggest issue for me has been getting a good grip on the seam, as Iyaroak’s hands – while soothing – have left quite a residue of baby seal fat about my body, including my fingers,” Smith explained as he enjoyed yet another back massage from the 14-year-old Iyaroak, who appears to prefer partaking in her tasks sans clothing.
Smith is keen to commit for the season, but is aware that Canadian police have called on the assistance of Interpol to track him down, as Iyaroak’s tender age – combined with their lewd acts during the journey back to CW Land - have confirmed him as the most wanted man in Canada.
“I’ll jump those hurdles as they come, but until those nasty Canadians lock me up, I’ll be all set to find my form which I displayed for the Blues,” Smith said.
“That said, I’m open to selection from any team which wants a disruptive influence in their clubrooms.”