Following the draw in the first Ashes test Ricky Ponting was quoted in the press criticising England for time wasting tactics. I certainly agree with Ricky's comments. I think it was fair enough to send the gloves out the first time to get the message to the batsman. When the 12th man came out with another pair of gloves the very next over, accompanied by the physio, I was screaming at them through TV to "GET THE #$%^ OFF THE FIELD AND LET THEM GET ON WITH IT!!!" It was an obvious time wasting ploy and as mentioned by the Sky commentators, it was not a good look for the game.Andy Flower has since come out and said Ricky made too much of it and was using it as an excuse despite him specifically saying "its not the reason we didn't win. We need to look at those reasons." Flower also gave a lame explanation that the reason for the second interruption was because the batsman spilt water on the gloves and there was confusion about whether the physio was required. Please Andy......we were not born yesterday!
While I agree the tactics were against the spirit of the game it is up to the umpires to step in and send the 12th man and physio off before they get to the middle. I've seen this happen in international cricket before, the umpire intercepted the 12th man en route to the middle and sent him straight back to the dressing room and there was minimal interruption.
I agree with you to be honest. I think the umpires should be able to add time on if necessary.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately I can't remember the detail of Old Trafford 2005 but I doubt the Aussie last pair were exactly rushing to face up to each delivery - it's something the authorities need to tighten up on as there are loads of examples of players using delaying tactics.
Funny how players seem able to bowl their overs much quicker when there's a potential win around the corner too....