Clarke blasts timing of ‘token’ ODI series
MICHAEL Clarke has slammed the timing of Australia’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, saying he will be surprised if anyone turns up to the games.
The former Australia captain says the matches are merely token and can only be for money.
Australia face NZ at the SCG on Friday and Sunday before the third and final match of the series in Tasmania on March 20, which makes it the latest finish to an international season in Australia since 1979, outside World Cup years.
Australian coach Justin Langer voiced concern in recent days about the mental fatigue arising from a packed international schedule, after his team lost 3-0 in their ODI series in South Africa.
Over the next six months, Australia have white-ball tours of NZ and England, a Test series in Bangladesh and home fixtures against the Black Caps, Zimbabwe and West Indies.
The Aussie squad were returning home from South Africa yesterday, leaving them just days to prepare for NZ’s visit.
Clarke says there are too many games of cricket and he can’t see the benefit of the series against NZ.
“Absolute token games of cricket ... I can’t believe it,” he said on Big Sports Breakfast.
“I’m a cricket fan through and through but whoever has made the decision to put these three ODIs on, it’s footy season. Cricket season is finished.
“What a great way to finish it with the women winning the World Cup as well.
“I’ll be very surprised if anybody turns up to watch those games. We’re playing way too much. We don’t need to.
“This can only be for money. I’m not even sure who’s making money from it. TV rights – how many people are tuning in?”