Sledging has become too personal

The Australians have earned a reputation for using abuse during play, suggesting it is part of the game. It might be a characteristic, yet it leads to incidents, as happened between Quinton de Kock and David Warner, the latter pictured on the left, who, on more than one occasion has also embroiled himself in off-field altercations with Joe Root, the English player, some time back.

Faf du Plessis is a little naive to believe what happens on the field stays on the field.

Think back to the Bodyline Series so many years back when England captain Douglas Jardine used Harold Larwood’s pace and direction to make it difficult for the Australian batsmen to combat, as well as shaking the batsman’s confidence.

The Australian press, parlia- mentarians and players had a field day crying foul.

It caused a diplomatic row but made the Aussies out to be cry babies, happy to dish it out but not able to take it in return.

Send us your letter

By today’s standards, such practice is standard.

Yet sledging should be banned as it leads to personal insults.

Ted O’Connor,

Albertskroon We publish letters that come with full name, address and telephone number even if you want to use a pseudonym. letters@citizen. co.za, fax 010-492-5386 or PO Box 43069 Industria 2042