Damien Martyn has leapt to the defence of the experienced Australian batting lineup following the latest criticism by former fast bowler Dennis Lillee. Lillee said he was concerned that the 35-year-old Martyn and the other frontline Australia batsmen could struggle in the Ashes series against England [Images], echoing the recent concerns of several leading ex-Test players.
"I think Dennis Lillee should keep quiet as president of the WACA (Western Australian Cricket Association) and it is disappointing," Martyn told reporters after arriving home in Perth from the Champions Trophy in India.
"The team is disappointed in Dennis's comments over the last six months, which don't need to be said. You just lose your respect."
Lillee expressed doubts that Australia would be able to win back the Ashes with an even older team following their surprise defeat last year in England.
Openers Justin Langer and Matthew Hayden [Images] will be aged 36 and 35 when the first Test against England starts on Nov. 23 in Brisbane. Captain Ricky Ponting [Images] will be 31, and Martyn and wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist [Images] 35.
© Copyright 2008 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.
|
Advertisement
Email this Article 
Print this Article