Bias is something no person can
escape. But if you find yourself in a position where you are relied upon for
expert commentary it must be put aside.
In Australian cricket commentary
this doesn’t seem to be the modus operandi. Granted, this is not applicable to
all Australian commentators nor is it an indictment on Australian cricket.
Let’s be honest, the Aussie women are a mighty team and dominate the game
because of the incredible talent that oozes from just about every player in the
line-up.
The South African women’s cricket
team is currently touring Australia. They’ve played three T20 matches, winning
one and have no moved on to three one-day internationals. The Proteas had been
handily beaten in the first ODI but roared back in emphatic fashion in the
second. All-rounder supreme Marizanne Kapp top-scored with 75 with Anneke Bosch
and Chloe Tryon providing marvelous support. Kapp followed up her excellent
batting performance with 3/12 with the ball while newbies Ayanda Hlubi and Eliz-mari
Marx chipped in with two wickets a piece.
At one point Australia found
themselves staring down the barrel at 7/71.
And this is what gave rise to the
reason for this article. The Australian commentator remarked: South Africa have
bowled well, but they haven’t bowled great.
I’m sorry, what? To have a team as
remarkable as Australia at 7/71 isn’t great bowling? It Isn’t the culmination
of sustained pressure with dot balls, excellent fielding, and persisting with
an imposing line and length that makes great bowling? It should be noted
that the commentator did refer to the number of extras the Protea bowlers had
conceded. But to call this type of bowling, with a team at 7/71, just…average…is
poor commentary. This isn’t to say that the extras should not have been
highlighted. It should, but not in a manner that detracts from 7/71!
Negative commentary is not just
disappointing, it’s downright deplorable. It undermines the very essence of
respect for the game. Instead of celebrating the hard work and skill it focuses
on the shortcomings, spreading negativity. Professional commentary should
uplift and inspire, not criticize. Such negative commentary reflects a lack of
professionalism and it’s time to ditch the negativity and bias.
