CRICKET COMMENTS.

Pahiatua Herald, Volume XLII, Issue 12732, 24 August 1934, Page 5

CRICKET COMMENTS.

LACKING IN FRIENDLINESS. INFRINGEMENT OF BODY-LINE. United Press Assn.—By Electric Telegraph—Copy right. LONDON. August 23. The Australian Press Association’s representative, commenting on the Test, says: “The wicket proved rather more difficult than had been expected. Bowes was aided by worn spots. “The match was conspicuously lacking in friendliness. The Austra lions considered the bowling of Clark, and to a lesser degree Bowes, an infringement of the implied agreement on which they came to England.” D. R. Jardine says: “England failed dismally in the colossal task which Australia set in the worst, and in many respects the dullest, Test match ever played in England. That Australia proved superior to the selectors and English eleven at every point in the game cannot be disputed. Players who do badly enough get dropped, and the same should apply to the selectors. Grimmett’s bowling in the last innings was magnificent. ’’ Bosanquet. in the Daily Mail, points out that, though Verity Was practically useless, Grimmett shortly afterwards turned the ball at will and had all the English batsmen in difficulties. The Times’ cricket writer says that England was humiliated at every point and was finally battered to pieces. Despite Bradman’s and Ponsferd’s batting, the overwhelming victory was due to Grimmett and O’Reilly.

Sir Stanley Jackson, chairman of the English selection committee, pays a tribute to the sportsmanship of the crowds at every Test despite feelings worked up by rumours. C. B. Fry says: “We should have won those Ashes. Ihe .Australian bowlers are good, not great: but always bowl an excellent length. Their imgcraft is excellent; curs is nil.” The News-Chronicle in a leader says: A service will be done to cricket sportsmanship if recriminations end with the Test, which has not been a cheery encounter. It is some consolation to know it is finished. Bowes returns to hospital in a few days for a further operation. AUSTRALIA DELIGHTED. SYDNEY. August 23. The whole of Australia is delighted at the result of the Test—that the Ashes are returning. The newspapers are devoting considerable space to the game and praise the remarkable combination and good conduct of the players throughout the tour. The Prime Minister (Air J. A. Lyons) cabled Woodfull the heartiest congratulations from the Government and people of Australia. “Your win was meritorious and Australia is proud of the team’s achievements. We also admire the courage of Bowes and regret the misfortune that befell the Englishmen in the final game.” Various- State cricket associations have also cabled congratulations, with special mention of Ponsford, Bradman, Grimmett and O’Reilly.