Tuesday, March 01, 2011

Australia is facing spot-fixing for slow start against Zimbabwe

Australian cricket team has been reported for their alleged spot-fixing against Zimbabwe in their first match of the ICC World Cup 2011. According to an Indian newspaper, ICC’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit has already started investigation of this matter.

The performance of Australian openers, Brad Haddin and Shane Watson, has been questioned. They made poor start against Zimbabwe and in the first 10 overs they batted slowly. It was really unthinkable for a team like Australia.

Australia scored 28 runs in 10 overs and 53 runs in 15 overs. However, in that match, Australia could score only 262 runs for losing 6 wickets. Australia’s slow run-rate surprised the supporters and it also created a lot of questions among the cricket lovers.

No doubt, Australian supporters would expect that defending champion might score more than 300 runs. Though Australia won the match by 91 runs, their performance has been criticized by cricket experts and supporters.

However, Australian cricket coach, Tim Nielsen, has backed his team saying that they played slowly according to the situation. Australia’s alleged spot fixing has become much stronger following the bans on three Pakistani players for spot-fixing last year on the England tour.

This match was played in Sardar Patel Stadium, Motera, Ahmedabad and it was helpful for spin bowlers. Australian players are not accustomed to play in this type of condition. So, if they struggle hard to score run then there is no reason to be surprised.

Related article:

THE AUSTRALIAN

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