THE EIGHT-BALL OVER.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LVII, Issue 17597, 9 October 1920, Page 7

THE EIGHT-BALL OVER.

ENGLISH OPPOSITION. LONDON. Sept 53. Mr. P. F. Warner, in an interview with the special representative of the Sydney Sun regarding the proposal for an eightball over, regretted the suggested Australian innovation, and said : "It might conceivably lead to a breakaway analogous to that of the Northern Union from the Rugby Union. " Personally I think eight balls would be a mistake, and six are sufficient. Eight balls for a fast bowler would be an "awful lot, though I do not agree that the alleged decline of fast bowling is due to the increase from four balls to six. "The Englishmen, facing «a heavy progiamme of eight balls in a hot climate, would be under a severe handicap. The Marylebone Club are the acknowledged lawmakers throughout the world, and it is most important that their rules should be recognised." Asked whether he favoured a conference between the M.C.C. and the Australian Board of Control Mr. Warner said. "The Australian views will certainly receive the greatest consideration, but I do not think that eight balls would suit this country. I do not see how Douglas could agree to a change on his arrival." Mr. J W. H. T. Douglas, captain of the English team, said, jocularly, that it would be best if the Australians bowled eight balls and the Englishmen six.