Stop dicey bowlers early, says Laxman

Kolkata: Stressing the importance of eradicating suspect bowling actions, VVS Laxman on Wednesday asked coaches and administrators to weed out the problem at grassroots level. “Some of the most celebrated names in the world of cricket have come under the scanner, and while I do sympathise with them, it is imperative that the rules that are in place are respected and adhered to. It is essential that we address the issue of suspect actions which is not endemic to one region or one country,” Laxman said while delivering the MAK Pataudi memorial lecture at the Eden Gardens.

“It becomes imperative for every coach, every state/ provincial unit and every cricket board to root out this problem. It places an enormous responsibility on coaches at the grassroots level, and on administrators. I am glad that ICC has taken a proactive and aggressive stance towards weeding out the malaise of illegal bowling actions,” he added.

Laxman said young kids could be influenced as a fallout of watching bowlers with suspect actions on television.

“We need to set the right example for the stars of tomorrow and I believe that there can be no compromise on the laws of the game as they exist,” he said. Laxman said the survival of the longer version of the game is critical for the future of cricket. “This should be the biggest worry confronting the administrators, the bigger challenge how to attract more spectators to Tests. There have been several suggestions to promote day-night Test matches I am not too sure if this variety would find favor with the spectators. It is, however, imperative that ways are found to sustain interest in Test cricket,” he said.