‘Play and accept that when you come overseas’ - Sunil Gavaskar slams Australian media’s constant criticism of Indian pitches

Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar has called out Australian media for their constant criticism of Indian pitches in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The 73-year-old also pointed out that some of their former players are making a lot of noise about the surface while the current players have remained quiet about it.

The former cricketer also stated that players like Steve Smith have previously mentioned that he enjoys playing and captaining in India as every delivery in the subcontinent is a challenge. Thus, he believes that what’s being said by Australian media is very disturbing, especially when the two countries are celebrating their 75 years of friendship.

“Steve Smith has actually said that he enjoys playing and captaining in India because every delivery is a challenge, every over things can change quite quickly. The current Australian players have not said anything but the noise that has been coming from some of the former players, that's been a bit disturbing. Considering that we are entering an era of 75 years of India-Australia friendship, some of the ex-players from Australia could not use words that are not quite tasteful,” Gavaskar told India Today.

The legendary cricketer also reminded that one needs to accept playing in overseas conditions and to 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.

Khawaja, Green gave the perfect start to Australia in fourth Test

Usman Khawaja’s sensational century in the fourth Test of the ongoing Test series against India has put Australia in the driver’s seat. Youngster Cameron Green has also been brilliant, scoring his first Test half-century in India. Courtesy of their marvellous innings, Australia got a perfect start and if they manage to capitalise on that, the Indian team will be in deep trouble.

When it comes to the Indian bowlers, they have failed to establish their authority so far. The spin do of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin have looked average and that’s a massive reason to worry about. 

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