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The coherent performance against Japan — albeit a young, inexperience Japanese “B” team — brought hope that a successful path, the longest one at the fork in the road, is still open.

That show will see another former Royal Exchange regular, Sir Tom Courtenay, 88, also return for his 17th role - albeit in a pre-recorded segment on screen.

Meanwhile, Ludvig Aberg, so impressive on Ryder Cup debut two years ago, was red-hot on Thursday but erratic over the weekend, albeit finishing with two birdies to post 12 under par.

It was fitting that 23-year-old Albert, who has enjoyed a breakthrough season for Hampshire, starred in the final albeit in a losing cause.

And after losing by 14 runs in Cardiff on Wednesday, albeit in a farcical rain-affected encounter, they arrived in Manchester once again in must-win territory.