N52 : Fifty-second lesson S00-TITLE : It's Not Cricket! S01 : The broadcasting rights to the World Cup are up for renegotiation, and Soccer TV wants to hold onto them. S02 : But it's not going to be plain sailing all the way... S03 : We got off to a flying start: we can't just throw in the towel now. We'd be a laughing-stock. S04 : But we're on a sticky wicket. We're up against Media Group, and they're heavy hitters. S05 : They threw their hat into the ring only last week and they're already firm favourites. S06 : I must admit I was caught out by their announcement. It really did come out of left field. S07 : But we mustn't let them queer our pitch. I'm sure we can hit them for six because we've got the best offer. S08 : Maybe so, but have you read their brief? It's really below the belt: S09 : They say we've had a good innings but that it's time to make way for a company with new ideas. S10 : Why did they have to stick their oar in? Everything was going swimmingly before they came along. S11 : Whatever, we can't take this lying down. We've got to come out fighting, to hit them where it hurts. S12 : Let's not jump the gun. We need to think things over carefully and, if necessary, start again from scratch. S13 : The gloves are off and it's no holds barred. I'm going to get the ball rolling straight away. S14 : But we're out of our league. Media Group can out-spend us three to one. We don't make the cut. S15 : So what should we do? Just roll over and let them walk over us? S16 : Actually, I'm stumped but I'll come up with something soon. We're not out for the count just yet. S17 : Don't forget that Media has moved the goalposts and we're no longer on a level playing field. S18 : I know. It's going to be a close-run race, but I reckon we can win by a nose, if not hands down. S19 : You see, my wife heads the selection committee. Game, set and match! T00-TRANSLATE : Exercise: Translate T01 : The conference is off to a flying start, so let's keep the ball rolling. T02 : I know I'm on a losing wicket but I'm going to try anyway. T03 : We were knocked for six when we heard the news about Bill. T04 : I know he's had a good innings but that was a below-the-belt remark. T05 : Don't jump the gun. Read the instruction manual first.