CRICKET.

Taranaki Daily News, 10 May 1921, Page 3

CRICKET.

APATHY OF SPECTATORS.

SHORT HOURS OF PLAY.

By Telegraph.—Press Assn.—Copyright. London, May 8. Warner, in the Morning Post, says that the spectators were singularly apathetic. They applauded Macartney and Collins at the conclusion of thetr innings, but there was little applause during the play. The day, however, was cheerless. Macartney was confidence personified; his square and late cuts were superb. Collins was not stylish, but he is a remarkably good batsman and makes an Ideal first man. I predict that he will make many runs during this tour. With the exception of Reay, Surrey’s bowling was commonplace.

The Times’ cricket correspondent states that the decision to play Australian hours caused strong comment. The Australians have, perhaps, too severe a tour and short hours are necessary, but only fifteen hours actual play in three days is not sufficient for the public who pay, and are entitled to consideration. It may be possible to finish the matches in a wet season, but, unless Malley proved unplayable, a dry season will mean many drawn games with the concommittant want of interest, disappointing everybody.