Blame for Black Caps choke does not rest squarely on Ryder’s shoulders

After the Black Caps decided that last night would be a good time to improve international relations between New Zealand and South Africa by taking the mantle of chokers off their cricket team, many fans and, in particular, commentator Craig McMillan feel the blame rests squarely on the shoulders of batsman Jesse Ryder, for the amount of time it took him to score the single run he needed to bring up his half century. He has been labelled selfish, with claims that the way he batted was indicative that he puts himself and his own personal glory before the team. This is a ridiculous statement.

Evra-Suarez saga a disgrace all round

Above all, the saga involving Manchester United defender Patrice Evra and Liverpool striker Luis Suarez has added fuel to the arguments of those who see modern footballers as little more than a bunch of spoilt, overpaid brats. The issue of racism, of course, is of the utmost seriousness and must be treated as such. But today’s game was a chance for both sides of the “argument” to put it to bed, or at least, prevent any further argument from taking place. Drama over Suarez’ suspension for racially abusing Evra had finally begun to die down. But all today’s match has done has re-energise the debate between supporters of the two players, while most other fans are just left shaking their heads and wishing the world could just go back to talking about football for once.

“Switch-hit” unfair on bowlers

Last night’s Twenty20 match between Australia and India provided audiences with yet another exhibition of the “switch-hit” – a shot whereby the batsman switches his grip and effectively bats with the opposite “handedness” with which they are known for. This time it was opener David Warner who excited the crowds with his version of the shot, belting a six 100m after he switched his grip and the direction he was facing before the ball arrived at his end of the pitch. However it did lead the commentary team to discuss, albeit briefly, whether or not the shot was “fair” on the bowler, and I for one feel that it definitely is not.