ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
Former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee has reportedly issued a very specific instruction to his barber this week, asking to be made to look like the LNER Class A4 4468 Mallard again as he prepares for another stint in the commentary box during the Third Ashes Test.
Witnesses say Lee arrived at a small barbershop in the CBD on Wednesday morning with reference photos pulled up on his phone, not of other men, but of the iconic British steam locomotive that still holds the world speed record for steam traction.
“Make me look this this train,” Lee asked the barber.
The exchange was witnessed firsthand by this reporter, who was waiting his turn in the chair directly behind Lee in the line.
“Make me look like the Mallard,” Lee said, producing a photo of the British steam locomotive on his phone.
“Fast. Express.”
The barber acknowledged the request without hesitation and began working on Lee’s now familiar high volume quaff, shaping it to emphasise speed, forward motion and the suggestion of a man arriving with a full head of steam.
As the cut progressed, the resemblance became increasingly apparent to those in the shop, with the finished product described as aerodynamic, aggressive and designed for top end speed.
“Nice,” Brett added.
“Looks fast.”
More to come.
