SUTCLIFFE LAUGHS

King Country Chronicle, Volume XXVIII, Issue 4527, 5 April 1934, Page 5

SUTCLIFFE LAUGHS

"CERTAINLY PLAY IF ASKED."

IN ENGLAND-AUSTRALIA TESTS. (Press Association.—Copyright.) (Received 12.25 p.m.) London, April 4. Interviewed by the Australian Press Association, Sutcliffe laughed heartily when informed of the rumour that he would not play in the tests. He said be would most certainly play if asked. Sutcliffe said: "I know I can speak for Hammond in this matter. He will certainly play if chosen." Sutcliffe added: "The story that I and other English cricketers who toured Australia signed any declaration relating to Jardine's captaincy is most absurd." The report apparently originated from the declaration signed by the English team during the last tests expressing loyalty to Jardine. 'There is not the slightest personal feeling between English and Australian cricketers. I am sure that as soon as play begins everything will go smoothly," he concluded.

MORE DENIALS.

NO RECOMMENDATIONS FROM DOMINIONS OFFICE. (Press Association.—Copyright.) (Received 1.33 p.m.) London, April 4. The Dominions Office officially denied the report that Messrs. Thomas and Bruce had conferred and had recommended to Marylebone that Australia would welcome the appointment of Chapman. Mr. Thomas, when interviewed, echoed Mr. Bruce's denial, adding: "This is pure imagination, and more leg-pull than leg-theory!" The Sun-Herald learns there is little likelihood of Marylebone publishing Jardine's letter, which is chiefly a report on the Indian tour. His reference to his not playing against Australia was merely incidental. He certainly never said he had no desire to play, but he explained his anxiety to concentrate on business.

Those who claim to be close friends of Jardine say openly that pressure was brought to bear .on him not to play, stated a report. They also allege that Larwood and possibly others will decline invitations to play in the coming test matches, and suggest that if Sutcliffe and Hammond, who signed a declaration in support of Jardine, are affected, the situation will be extremely critical. The Australians may even decide to abandon a test rather than play a non-repre-sentative English team.