EDITORIAL: Oh Clarkey

Every time I'm reminded about how much I dislike him, he goes ahead and compiles a mind-boggling, innings-saving century, making it look like he's in you're average suburban backyard and not up against arguably the best bowling attack in the world; it's a vicious cycle.

But what went on at the end of play in the first Ashes test on Sunday was a tad, how do I put this, disgusting.

If you don't know what I'm talking about here's a recap. England was in a dire position, stranded with just one wicket left, chasing a ludicrous 400 odd runs for victory. All was lost, Australia had won, it was a given, everyone knew it, nothing was in doubt. But according to Michael Clarke, there was still time for a sledge.

The English bowler in question, who was doing his best with the willow, was probably giving it as good as he got, he was probably in the wrong too, but you have to remember this guy's a tail-ender copping 150 kilometre an hour bullets left right and centre from a fired-up Mitchell Johnson. I'd be inclined to whinge and whine myself.

Anyway, at that point good-old Michael waltzed over from slips, dropped a serious f-bomb, and then told the bowler that he should be prepared for a fractured limb.

At the change of ends, he got right up in the batsmen's face once again and chucked another tantrum.

A couple of balls later the tail-ender was out, an inevitable end to the match, easily won by the Aussies.

The captain's behaviour was startlingly unnecessary. I mean the game wasn't even close, it wasn't even in the balance. Why do it? Oh yes I remember, because that's Michael Clarke for you.

What worries me most is how our younger generation is going to see this. Your average nine-year-old who just loves our amazing 'Captain Clarkey' would have seen that on Sunday and probably thought, really? That's how it's done is it? Great.

Thanks to our captain, many young aspiring fast bowlers have been lead to think causing grievous bodily harm's the way to go to get your man.

The main excuse from Clarke supporters is incredibly weak. "Oh give him a break, Australia went through so much in England, he's allowed to be a bit emotional, that's how much he cares for his team".

Wow, I mean I love my sport, but the thought of putting someone in a hospital ward to win a game of cricket is a bit much. No?