MENACING PACE.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXIV, Issue 670, 25 January 1933, Page 11

MENACING PACE.

Will Queensland Try Leg Theory? INCLUSION OF GILBERT. (By ARTHUR MAILEY.) ADELAIDE, January 19. Whatever one thinks of lejj theory, it must be admitted that Larwood’s pace is a menace, even when he bowls at the wicket. Larwood, unlike most right-hand fast bowlers, swings the ball into the batsman, and consequently his flight deceives the batsman, rather than the bump of the ball. Even if Larwood bowled straight at the wicket, it is almost essential that he should have his leg field well fortified. Leg theory is certainly threatening; but I feel that any type of fast bowling would have this effect on Australian batsmen at present. It will be interesting to see if the Queensland selectors will play Gilbert and Thurlow, and if the local captain will try out a leg theory attack. What would be more interesting, in view of the fact that the fourth Test is played in Brisbane, would be to see how Messrs Sutcliffe, Jardine ana Co. would combat it. This is not suggested in the nature of a reprisal or a retaliatory precaution, but just a thought that, after all, a little more contrast is needed in Australia’s attack. Grin and Bear It. Fast leg theory is dangerous and a menace, but there appears to be no artificial remedy. I think we must grin and bear it. If we think it is more hostile than slow bov/ling then let us adopt it. The consensus of opinion among people closely connected with cricket favours overtures by the Board of Control to the M.C.C., but first in appeal should be made to Jardine to modify the leg theory attack. This difficult and delicate question requires careful handling. My opinion is that it cannot be decided by legislation and the remedy therefore lies with the players themselves. (" Star ” copyright.)