CRICKET.

West Coast Times, Issue 10657, 10 December 1897, Page 4

CRICKET.

Sydney, Dec 9.

Heavy showers continue to fall and the wicket promises to be of the gluepot order to-morrow. It is quite possible the umpires may decide it is not fit to play on.

(Received Dec 9, at 9.40 a.m.)

Giffen's persistency in refusing all entreaties to join the team is the main topic of conversation in cricket circles. Monetary offers by outside enthnsiasts to induce him to play have been refused. The South Australian contingent say the rea3on for not playing is not a financial one. This makes the matter more mysterious. (Received Dec 9 at 8.8 p.m.) Stoddart has received news by cable announcing the death of his mother. • (Received Dec 9, at 9 p.m.)

The test match is postponed till noon on Saturday in consequence of the wet weather and unfavorable condition of the wicket. This decision was come to late in the afternoon after the inspection of the pitch by Major Wardill, a number of "both teams and a subsequent meeting of members of both teams.

(Received, Dec 9, at 11.20 p.m.)

Tfie formal announcement of a post ponement of the match was made after / the meeting of the trustees of the cricket ground. Major Wardill, as repres »ntative of the Melbourne Cricket Club, stood alone in favouring the starting to-morrow. The umpires are not in agreement with the trustees. Both expressed themselves opposed to the postponement and consider it should have been left to their decision to-morrow. The Australian team favored the postponement, the Englishmen are reticent but it is understood they are opposed. Stoddart is much distressed at his mother's death and will not play in the match M'Laren will probably captain the team. The weather cleared in the forenoon with a good drying" wind. The team took advantage of this to practice, which only demonstrated the bowlers to be masters of the situation. At 5 o'clock to-night a drizzling rain fell and is since falling steadily. The outlook is unfavorable and meteorologipts predictions are decidedly gloomy. Banjit Singhj has greatly improved and is able to leave his room. He arrives in town from Arraidalein the morning.