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Thank you, Michael W. Thomas (Letters, 18 June), for drawing readers' attention to my "innings" of letters. If there's one thing worse than being talked about, etc etc. However, I know I can trust the Times Higher Education skipper to wave me back to the pavilion when she thinks bat has ceased to connect with ball. So if you're reading this now, Michael, commiserations.

Next time - assuming you get the chance - try addressing a serious issue and show me where I have not done so. Then readers will know whether you have anything to say that is not shrill, assertive or over-personalised.

By the way, colleagues in your former institution tell me that your practical jokes, though puerile, were the stuff of legend. It's good to see you're still at it.

David Roberts, John Henry Newman Chair, Newman University College.