26-08-2019, 12:48
(26-08-2019, 10:23)drewks Wrote: I share most UK people's views about the Aussie 'spirit' when playing sport - pushing the boundaries of what is fair/acceptable, and going past that mark, obviously, very often.
BUT! I've got to say that the Aussie captain, Tim Paine, was unbelievably balanced and fair with his comments made so soon after the game.... to the point of even dismissing the lbw goof by the umpire at the end.
Fair play to the bloke.
Has the Australian mentality changed in the aftermath of the Ball Tampering Scandal?
Nah, Paine's just a nice guy generally (his remarks about Edgbaston notwithstanding). After the scandal, his selection as skipper probably was an effort to improve the image of the Aussie team, but I think sooner or later their media will either demand that he toughen up or call for his head. History suggests that Nice Aussies just don't prosper.
In fact, it's one more eerie parallel between 2019 and 1981 that he's quite reminiscent of Kim Hughes in his affability and sportsmanship.
"I would rather spend a holiday in Tuscany than in the Black Country, but if I were compelled to choose between living in West Bromwich or Florence, I should make straight for West Bromwich." - J.B. Priestley