Pleasant Change To See Thrilling Series End On High Note

Sydney Morning Herald

Saturday January 10, 2009

THIS time last year a riveting series concluded amid acrimony and unpleasantness. One team - the winners - bore the brunt of the blame. On Wednesday, a riveting series ended in accolades and superlatives, with both teams equally honoured. Perhaps the difference is not in the attitude of the one team involved in both series; but rather that of the other team from last summer.

Pip Denton, Guildford

Cheers for Smith

It was a well-deserved tribute to Graeme Smith, and at the same time a moving display of good sportsmanship by the spectators: one moment exhilarated by the thought that Australia had just won the Test, they were on their feet in the next, spontaneously applauding the courage and spirit of the man who might rob them of victory.

Judy Reeve, Rose Bay

Leading from the front

There were two major differences between conclusions of the Tests at the SCG in 2008 and 2009. One was Graeme Smith, a true leader and competitor. The other was Anil Kumble. Enough said.

Simon Cavenagh, Lane Cove

Sticky situation

Yes, things are looking pretty sticky for Matthew Hayden's career, but at least that's one less open-mouthed gum chewer for the camera to dwell on..

Ross Pride, Crows Nest

Lay off Hayden

How anybody could be expected to bat with fluency and confidence when under the barrage of criticism and expectation that Matty Hayden has been, has me stymied. This hurricane, together with a temporary glitch in his armoury, has, "they" say, heralded the natural winds of change. Such breezy dismissals of a wonderful Test warrior were initially a storm in a teacup but gained momentum before his confidence could again see the light of day. They've managed to have him turfed out of the short forms of the game, and if the blowhards have their way, he'll also be out of the longer version.

Rosemary O'Brien, Georges Hall

Catch the hint?

It is always difficult to leave and most go too late. A dropped catch was Adam Gilchrist's epiphany and it should be Matt Hayden's. A younger Hayden would not have dropped that one. It is not about Hayden but the future of Australian cricket. It is time he set aside the stubborn determination that has characterised his distinguished career and handed the pink bat handle on to a talented young Phil Hughes so that he can learn to follow in his large footsteps. Go now and he will leave with our respect, gratitude and best wishes. Linger and he may tarnish his considerable legacy.

Martyn Baker, Coogee

The right stuff

One of the best results from the SCG Test was that Peter Roebuck couldn't find any worthwhile reason to crucify the Australian cricketers. Even though Ricky Ponting is still the captain!

John Moir, Mollymook

Leave champers on ice

What a great final day to the third Test. Courage, determination, and good cricket. For me the only spot of discord was the absurd habit that has crept into sports - that ridiculous business of spraying champagne. I think it started in the most boring of sports - car racing - and now even cricketers are doing it. I had thought they were the most mature of all sportsmen but not now.

G Healey, Condell Park

© 2009 Sydney Morning Herald

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