N. Shore Defends Gunn’s Nomination

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30405, 2 April 1964, Page 15

N. Shore Defends Gunn’s Nomination

The North Shore Lawn Tennis Association has sent a circular to associations defending its action in nominating Mr J. Gunn as captain of the Davis Cup team.

“Our association has decided to reply to the circular from the New Zealand management committee because it feels the wording and inferences are such as to give other associations a completely wrong impression when, in fact, we have acted strictly according to protocol and correct procedude,” says the circular, signed by the association president, Mr G. Simpson. “The statement of the chairman indicated that no nominations would be called for, and no information sought from associations as to who was available,” says the circular. Undemocratic Action

“This method of appointment appears to be most undemocratic and definitely not in the best interest of Davis Cup tennis or of the players participating. “Consequently, when our association received a letter

from Gerrard asking for Mr Gunn’s services, we had no hesitation in forwarding his nomination to the New Zealand committee.

“We deny flatly we have further canvassed or sought publicity on the facts," it says.

“Rather, we would say, if canvassing has been done, it has come from the chairman of the management committee personally approaching individuals,” in calling for further nominations.

“We are concerned, too, that New Zealand, at its most prosperous period, cannot send a team without financial aid from the captain. “We would like to point out that while some of the conditions set out are necessary if they are all strictly adhered to it means that only a player will be captain-manager, and in our opinion these conditions must be taken as a precedent to the future.”