Consider this
- Four players get suspended from a test match because they did not submit their homework.
- An ex-player held back the news of his retirement because he was afraid that he might be dropped.
- An official speaks openly about one of the Famous Four - stating that he is not a 'team player'. The player in question responds saying that the official didnt know him well enough.
Remember Simon Katich and his bust-up with the captain?
Whatever be the reason for the open fight, it is unprecedented in the history of cricket. Other countries who are notoriously famous for their internal team rivalries will be chuckling away to glory. This is the ultimate test therefore for the players in the playing eleven at Mohali - after Day 1, it looks like some of the reinforcements (Smith and Haddin) have done well. The skipper is obviously not happy as he promoted to No.3 and got stumped the very first ball!
The previous Oz captains used to be tough on the opponents (Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting and co) while enjoying great relationships internally. But, now, the aggression has swapped sides - the Aussie team members seem to have good relations with the Indian cricketers while internally, they seem to be in a mess!
Is the new mantra of the team to be "nice"on the field?
Is there a problem with the coach? Many questions to be answered in the middle of a test series overseas. Really tough!
1 comment:
I might be in the minority but I like what Australia has done here. Regardless of who the individual is, they have shown that team-rules are team-rules and they have to be followed! Especially if you want to reclaim the tag of the No. 1 Test team. And look what the reactions of those sacked have been. Pattinson agrees with the decision and Watson is (according to some in the media) re-thinking his retirement claims. Khawaja and Johnson have not made any comment so far - wonder if they were the main culprits in this situation? I feel the Indian media is looking at this from an "Indian" perspective where the individual is always placed above the team. Yes, non-Indians have commented as well but, for the most part, it's been the Poms or Australians. The Poms will never let go the opportunity to badger the Aussies. And the Australians, I feel, are not privy to the new culture that Clarke and Arthur want to bring to this current team.
Post a Comment