DENIS ARTT – “THE AGRESSOR”
The best uncapped cricketer in Ireland over the last fifteen years, with the possible exception of Clarke Nicholl of Brigade, in my opinion is Denis Artt. It is amazing just how little representative cricket Denis has played which must be due to his rather explosive and abrasive temperament in his earlier years. It was certainly not due to his lack of ability. Those outside the Ulster Town Selection Committee were often mystified why he was frequently overlooked for much inferior players. Artt is a natural keeper with quick hands and at times frightening aggression which has more than compensated for minor flaws in technique. His commitment to the game has been a great example and source of encouragement to his teammates. His presence in the North Down team was a major influence on my own decision to play at Comber for three seasons.
Denis now lives in Kent and I understand he retired last year following his tour with North Down to Barbados. I enjoyed playing with him at Comber and his competitive attitude to matches.
EDDIE BUSHE – “THE TACTICIAN”
Of our four keepers the one with the outstanding technique is Eddie Bushe. On his day when the ball is hitting the middle of the gloves, watching Bushe in action is watching wicket keeping at its very best. His speed in taking up the perfect legside position when “standing up” is at times breathtaking. Eddie would be the first to admit he is not the most athletic person in the world and would be classed the least “busy” of the four. A flaw in his game has been a feeling of boredom when standing back for long periods which at times is reflected in his performance through small lapses in concentration. He deserved many more caps than he was awarded but unfortunately when given the opportunity at our highest level, only on one occasion did he play anywhere near to his true potential. That was a great pity as not only at Waringstown was his great talent admired but throughout club cricket in the Province. “Bushy” was a big part of the Waringstown machine.
