Former England pacer Ryan Sidebottom skeptical of the stump mic’s presence in Test cricket

Former England pacer, Ryan Sidebottom after the recent controversy involving Jos Buttler, spoke out in public, expressing his concerns regarding the presence and effect of stump mics in Test matches. He was seemingly worried about the effects of this tech on the ‘nitty-gritty’ of the longest and the purest form of the sport.

England wicketkeeper, Jos Buttler was recently fined 15 per cent of his match fee. The fine was imposed on him after an incident in which he was heard on the stump mic, swearing at Vernon Philander, the South African pacer. The incident took place during the second Test match played earlier this week.

As reported by Sky Sports News, Sidebottom questioned the effect of stump mic on the drama and tension that develops during play. He was quoted saying, “Test matches bring so much drama and tension, guys are out there giving it absolutely everything – and I love a little bit of nitty-gritty.”

He added players want to go out on the field and play hard cricket, attempting to win the game for their side. And, for this to continue, in the cricketer’s opinion, the stump mic must be turned off from time to time.

He also commented on Jos Buttler’s usage of words and said, “I would prefer to see the lads being aggressive out there. You’re trying to win games, that’s what it’s all about when you’re playing professional sport and you want players going at it, then after the game you shake hands and get on with it.” Sidebottom also added that from the nine years he spent on the field, he has learnt that he prefers to have the mic turned off.

Ryan Sidebottom is optimistic about James Anderson’s future

Commenting on James Anderson’s future he said, “Don’t write Jimmy Anderson off yet. He’s arguably England’s greatest ever fast bowler, certainly one of the best there’s ever been. He’s still a fine, fine bowler and he’s still hungry for wickets, he’ll still want to create history for himself and his team. If he’s still taking wickets and contributing to England victories, he’s got to be on that teamsheet.”

Sidebottom added that it’s wrong on the people’s side to question his susceptibility to injuries and age and if he continues to perform, no one can stop him to make a strong comeback.

England’s veteran pacer Anderson would be missing out on the remainder of the ongoing series owing to a rib injury. The injury has also caused people to question his international future. Anderson is the highest wicket-taker for England in Test match cricket and the fans would be definitely praying for his return to the sport.

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