CA Chief James Sutherland concedes team's behaviour in Durban was unacceptable

Cricket Australia (CA) Chief James Sutherland admits that Australian team’s behaviour wasn’t acceptable during the Durban Test. CA has given an ultimatum to the Australian players regarding the on-field decorum while representing Australia.

Captain Steve Smith and Head Coach Darren Lehmann shrugged off the behaviour of some of the players by claiming it as an Aussie way of cricket. However, the administration reminded that the game of cricket should be played in the right spirit.

“CA has reminded the team of the standards of behaviour expected of players representing Australia. Cricket is a game that owes much of its unique appeal to the fact that it should be played not only within its laws but also within the spirit of the game,” commented James Sutherland according to SBS News.

The personnel in focus was David Warner, who was vocal during the ugly payment disputes last year. Warner was fined $13,500 for his agitated spat with Quinton de Kock, en route Kingsmead’s dressing room.

“This includes the need to be respectful of opponents, and CA expects this to be observed by players at all times. Unfortunately, neither team met this standard in Durban. The Australian team understands that fans expect better,” added Sutherland.

Sutherland apologetic for team’s actions

However, CA Chief remained adamant that the Aussies will continue with their hard style of play. Also, Sutherland suggested what happened at Durban would remain an aberration.

“Australia has always prided itself on taking a highly competitive approach to international cricket. This will not change, however, CA is confident that what occurred in Durban will remain an aberration,” added CEO of CA.

Apart from the Warner, Nathan Lyon’s conduct was also questionable. After dislodging the bails, Lyon deliberately dropped the ball on AB de Villiers chest and was fined for his ‘unnecessary act’.

“Under the period of the current team leadership, Australian players have received fewer sanctions under the ICC Code of Conduct than players from the majority of the nine top-ranked Test-playing nations,” concluded James Sutherland.

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