England’s cricketers are under siege after a dismal series of performances in Australia evoked stinging criticism from opponents, media and even their own fans.
The tourists had already been slammed after losing the Ashes to Australia 5-0, but they plumbed new lows with a 90-run loss to New Zealand in the one-day series.
The English media have described their efforts as ”pathetic” and ”shameful”, with former Test bowler Angus Fraser describing their latest batting collapse as a debacle.
”England do not deserve sympathy. All they merit is a kick up the backside,” Fraser wrote in the Independent.
The Sun newspaper was equally scathing.
”Andrew Flintoff and his England side produced a batting collapse here … that should have them squirming with embarrassment.” it said. The Australian media also put the boot in.
”England’s tour simply reached new levels of wretchedness,” wrote the Age.
Australian coach John Buchanan was left to lament a lack of meaningful competition for the world champions as they prepare for their defence of the World Cup.
”In essence, the batting efforts of our opposition are not assisting the development of our bowlers’ one-day skills, and the decision-making that accompanies being placed under the microscope of competition,” Buchanan wrote in his regular report on Cricket Australia’s website.
Even England’s most loyal supporters appear to have given up hope, with many British tourists reportedly heading home early.
The head of the ”Barmy Army” in Australia, Craig Gill, told the Daily Telegraph that dozens of disgruntled fans had tried in vain to sell their remaining tickets.
”I can’t give them away,” Gill said. ”People just won’t pay $60 to risk seeing England get out for 150 and the game being over by eight o’clock.” – Reuters