Turner: ‘Excessive degrees of entitlement’ shown up

FORMER New Zealand cricket coach and captain Glenn Turner has criticised the reactions of some sportspeople to Covid19 restrictions.

In a press release issued yesterday, Turner wrote that the response of some athletes had been ‘‘regrettable’’.

‘‘Governments the world over are doing everything possible to have some toplevel sport played to occupy the masses through some tough times and for the players, team brands, broadcasters, advertisers and events’ business owners to make money,’’ he wrote.

‘‘But, the inability of some in sport to understand the opportunity is missing.

‘‘Surely, one of the important lessons learnt from this pandemic is the need for administrations to take responsibility for briefing their teams and players before leaving their shores.’’

Turner felt athletes needed to be made more aware of their responsibilities on arrival and during their stay.

‘‘There are already too many examples to mention that have tarnished the reputation of sport and some of its players, administrators, CEOs and managers.

‘‘It’s revealed excessive degrees of entitlement and discloses sport and money being valued above saving people’s lives.

‘‘Sportspeople need to understand they have an advantageous position, where so many people have jumped through hoops to allow them to play their games.’’