Cricket Australia (CA) temporarily restricted the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) from interviewing an Australian player after day three of the fifth Ashes Test. The decision followed commentary by former player Stuart Clark on ABC radio, which included criticism of national selector George Bailey and CA head of cricket James Allsopp.
Player Interview Restriction Implemented
On Tuesday, Cricket Australia (CA) restricted the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) from accessing an Australian player for an end-of-play radio interview following day three of the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney. This action represented a departure from the typical practice of providing the national broadcaster with an Australian player for an on-air interview at the conclusion of daily play.
While CA did not provide a player to the ABC, the Australian Associated Press (AAP) reported that CA is not contractually obligated to do so. Later that evening, Steve Smith provided interviews to other broadcasters after scoring a century. Post-play interviews for the ABC were anticipated to resume on Wednesday.
Commentary Precipitating the Decision
The restriction occurred after Stuart Clark, a former player, broadcaster, and Cricket NSW board member and selector, made comments on ABC radio. Clark's commentary questioned the roles of national selector George Bailey and CA head of cricket James Allsopp.
Clark expressed concerns regarding their perceived authority and willingness to challenge the Australian coach and captain on player selection matters. His statements included:
- Describing James Allsopp as a "grade club cricket coach" and stating that Allsopp "can't tell (coach) Andrew McDonald or (captain) Steve Smith what to do."
- Questioning if George Bailey possessed the "gravitas or the leadership skills" to direct the coach and captains, and characterizing him as a "yes-man."
The discussion also referenced the role of Steve Smith in Australia's decision-making, particularly concerning the team's fourth instance of not selecting a strike spinner in six Tests.
Official Responses and Dialogue
CA Chief Executive Todd Greenberg communicated with Stuart Clark regarding his comments. Greenberg characterized the remarks as "personal" and "unwarranted," stating that Clark "overstepped the mark by talking not just about the decisions, but individually about people." He clarified that Clark's statements represented his personal opinions and were not representative of Cricket NSW.
Stuart Clark confirmed having a "cordial" discussion with Greenberg, acknowledging their disagreement. Clark stated that he would not engage in a public dispute on the matter and noted his history of commending CA's decisions when he believed them to be correct.
Stakeholder Reactions
ABC commentator Corbin Middlemas publicly criticized CA's decision to limit access during a broadcast. He stated that the Australian team is a "public good" and that restricting access prevented listeners across the country from hearing from the team.
Background on Cricket Australia Officials
- George Bailey has held the position of chief selector since 2021, overseeing periods of success while also receiving critique from former players.
- James Allsopp has a background within Cricket Australia, having progressed through roles such as high-performance manager, women’s state coach, and head of Cricket ACT.