The tone of proceedings in the House of Representatives was lightened considerably last week when Member for Barker Tony Pasin spoke about a recent cricket match in Canberra.

He delighted in announcing that he had led the politicians to victory in their annual game against the Press Gallery.

“It is the longest-running fixture of any of the sporting contests to take place between members of parliament and the fourth estate,” Mr Pasin said.

“I am disappointed the captain of the Press Gallery (and ABC journalist) Andrew Probyn is not present with us in the chamber right here.

“But I am led to believe that he is nursing a bruised ego after his solitary over went for a punishing 15 runs – which, I have to say, turned the game distinctively in favour of the politicians.

“We were able to chase down the Press Gallery’s 157 comfortably with two overs to spare.

“It was a great game that was played in the best of spirits but, importantly, that concluded the right way.”

The SE Voice approached Mr Probyn for comment and his reply was also tongue-in-cheek.

“Tony Pasin’s parliamentary rib-ticklers were as well-directed as his tepid medium pace bowling, which – to my eternal sporting shame – has twice dismissed me over the years,” Mr Probyn responded.

“Having lost a couple of games to a Pasin-led Pollies XI, the Press Gallery is poised for vengeance.

“Victory against any team that has the barker from Barker within its crumpled fold will be ever so sweet.”

For the record, Mr Pasin contributed with bat and ball in the latest match by taking the wicket of ABC staffer Toby Hunt and scoring 19 runs.