I have immeasurable respect for Kumble during this series. Lionhearted bowling, spirited captaincy and determined batting.
BUT "only one team playing in the spirit of the game?". My contention - NEITHER team was!
Firstly Australia: (a) not walking when obvious - I agree that walking is optional but "it's just not cricket" when Clarke edges to first slip and stands his ground. Symonds however was honest - "yes I nicked it on 30, but I could also sit here and tell you about the number of bad decisions I have got" (b) aggressive appeals - pioneered by Indian spinners on home tracks (ie appeals for bat pad catches with the bat held high in the air), improved by Sri Lankans and Pakistanis, and perfected by Mr. Shane Warne. But really, what team pushing for a world-record equalling victory doesn't aggressively ask the question at any opportunity? I'd bet my life that most Indian fans would kill to be in the same position as the Australian juggernaut! (c) Catches - I will discuss in my next instalment
Now India: (a) aggressive appealing - ie Kumble appealing for LBW when Hogg drove through the offside for 2 runs (b) Over rates - deliberately slowed down - such as calling for shinguards for ball 6 of an over! (c) Ishant - coming out with 2 left gloves with 9 minutes to go, followed by Pathan laughing with the replacement glove!
If you want to take the moral high ground, your own house needs to be in impeccable order. IMHO, India doesn't have a leg to stand on.
