Former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar has criticized the Australian media for its constant criticism of Indian pitches during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Gavaskar pointed out that while current Australian players have remained quiet about the issue, some of their former players have been making a lot of noise about the surface. He also reminded everyone that players like Steve Smith have previously stated that they enjoy playing and captaining in India because every delivery in the subcontinent is a challenge.
Gavaskar stated that the criticism of the Indian pitches is very disturbing, especially as India and Australia are celebrating 75 years of friendship. He also pointed out that one must accept playing in overseas conditions and never question the integrity of Indian cricket fans.
“The pitch was the same for both. Play and accept that when you come overseas, you are not going to get pitches like at home, but do not use words like skullduggery, doubting the integrity of the Indians. No country can have a monopoly on integrity and honesty, Let’s get this absolutely straight. I am a very proud Indian. When somebody casts doubt on Indians and myself, I will speak my mind,” he added.
Gavaskar’s comments come in the wake of Australia’s recent tour of India where the visitors lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1. Despite winning the first Test in Pune, Australia lost the next two Tests in Bangalore and Dharamsala, respectively. The series was also marred by several controversies, including the infamous DRS-gate incident involving Australian captain Smith.
