Statement from Greg Dyer & Alistair Nicholson

18 August, 2019

The overnight events at Lords show the importance of the concussion protocols which have been developed in Australia over the last few years.

Administrators in Australia working with the ACA and now the ICC have done a good job in putting the protocols in place. Plainly, they are necessary to protect the players who are struck.

Let’s remind ourselves – this is a workplace for these players.

The reality is that cricket can be a dangerous sport, especially when the bowling is as ferocious as it has been in this series.

To see the protocols practiced at Lords overnight was important and correct.

What was unwelcome and incorrect was the sound of booing of an injured player.

Cricket deserves much better than that. And Lords, the home of cricket, deserves much better than that also.

What we witnessed was bravery from an outstanding young man. It should be commended not vilified.

Over the English summer, generally the crowds have been terrific and really added to the contest. But when someone is hurt, yet the boos continue, it's time to call ‘enough.’

At any rate, the players have already served the toughest penalties in the history of cricket. Surely it is time to move forward.

© Australian Cricket Players Limited
Photos courtesy of Getty Images
The Australian Cricketers’ Association acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders both past and present.