DISCIPLINE IN CRICKET.

Auckland Star, 2 January 1931, Page 6

DISCIPLINE IN CRICKET.

Of course Bradinan left the meeting of the Board of Control with a grin on his face. So have New Zealand bookmakers on leaving a Police Court after being fined what amounted to a license fee. The "£SO he was fined Avas a trifle compared with what he made by breaking his agreement with the Board. The Board's attitude was slightly reminiscent of the umpire who said: "Not out! But next time you do it you will be." That Bradman broke his agreement there does not seem to be any doubt, or that he broke it deliberately. Indped, his behaviour is not pretty. He exploited his dazzling success, but did it occur to him that this was hardly fair to other members fpf £he team • who took, a more scrupulous* view of their undertaking? Of course it does not matter to the game whether Bradman or Griinmett writes a book about cricket and embodies his experiences in it. What does matter —and this was the real reason for the severe restrictions imposed by the Board of Control—is that members of touring teams shall not write for the Press about the games in which their/side is playing. There is,ample justification in experience forthis prohibition. Bradman is a national hero and a great financial "draw," and the public cannot be blamed for wondering if these considerations weighed with the Board. The game, however, is greater than any player. Years ago the Board of Control had to take a strong stand against a number of rebellious players, and play Test matches without them. History may repeat itself..