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In our latest exclusive interview, cricket legend David "Bumble" Lloyd dissects the drama of the India-England Test series, the state of modern cricket, and urgent reforms needed in the game. The Lancashire icon shares unfiltered views on player conduct, over rate controversies, and the financial crisis threatening Test cricket’s future.
Key topics covered in the interview include:
The India-England Test Match at Lord's: Lloyd describes the game as one of the greats, comparing it to the 2005 Ashes series due to its slow start, sudden spark, and "argy-bargy" between the teams.
Atmosphere at Lord's: Having played there, Lloyd notes that Lord's has a "sedate vibe" where many spectators are in the outer areas eating and socializing rather than watching the main event, making it less intimidating than other grounds globally.
Sledging and Player Behavior: Lloyd reflects on the recent introduction of "sledging" into cricket, stating he's fine with it as long as there's a deterrent. He suggests a "yellow card, red card" system similar to football, where players could be sent off for poor behavior, emphasizing the need for umpires to have authority. He also touches on physical contact, like shoulder barging, as being too far.
Respect for Umpires and DRS: Lloyd, a former umpire, discusses the changing dynamic between players and umpires. He believes players should respect the game and opposition. He notes that the Decision Review System (DRS) allows players to challenge umpires, which initially made umpires "touchy" but now they are more accepting.
Over Rates and Time Wasting: Lloyd expresses strong views on slow over rates, particularly the "appalling" rate at Lord's, where spectators pay high prices but see fewer overs. He attributes time-wasting to players and criticizes the passive approach of umpires and the ICC. He specifically highlights instances like batters receiving back massages during play, which he finds unacceptable and sarcastic about. He also criticizes frequent unscheduled drink breaks. As a solution, he suggests that if a batsman isn't ready when the bowler is at the end of their run, the bowler should just bowl.
Jofra Archer's Return: Lloyd expresses excitement about Jofra Archer's return to cricket after four years, praising his athleticism and 90 mph bowling.
India's Position in the Series: With India 2-1 down, Lloyd anticipates that Jasprit Bumrah will play in the next match at Old Trafford to help India level the series.
Decline of West Indies Cricket: Lloyd laments the "alarming" decline of West Indies cricket, recalling their past dominance. He notes the recent 27 all-out against Australia as an example of their struggles. He attributes this decline to the unequal distribution of broadcast deal money, where the "big three" (Australia, India, England) take the majority, leaving less for teams like West Indies to develop players and facilities.
Watch full interview with Saj here:
Key topics covered in the interview include:
The India-England Test Match at Lord's: Lloyd describes the game as one of the greats, comparing it to the 2005 Ashes series due to its slow start, sudden spark, and "argy-bargy" between the teams.
Atmosphere at Lord's: Having played there, Lloyd notes that Lord's has a "sedate vibe" where many spectators are in the outer areas eating and socializing rather than watching the main event, making it less intimidating than other grounds globally.
Sledging and Player Behavior: Lloyd reflects on the recent introduction of "sledging" into cricket, stating he's fine with it as long as there's a deterrent. He suggests a "yellow card, red card" system similar to football, where players could be sent off for poor behavior, emphasizing the need for umpires to have authority. He also touches on physical contact, like shoulder barging, as being too far.
Respect for Umpires and DRS: Lloyd, a former umpire, discusses the changing dynamic between players and umpires. He believes players should respect the game and opposition. He notes that the Decision Review System (DRS) allows players to challenge umpires, which initially made umpires "touchy" but now they are more accepting.
Over Rates and Time Wasting: Lloyd expresses strong views on slow over rates, particularly the "appalling" rate at Lord's, where spectators pay high prices but see fewer overs. He attributes time-wasting to players and criticizes the passive approach of umpires and the ICC. He specifically highlights instances like batters receiving back massages during play, which he finds unacceptable and sarcastic about. He also criticizes frequent unscheduled drink breaks. As a solution, he suggests that if a batsman isn't ready when the bowler is at the end of their run, the bowler should just bowl.
Jofra Archer's Return: Lloyd expresses excitement about Jofra Archer's return to cricket after four years, praising his athleticism and 90 mph bowling.
India's Position in the Series: With India 2-1 down, Lloyd anticipates that Jasprit Bumrah will play in the next match at Old Trafford to help India level the series.
Decline of West Indies Cricket: Lloyd laments the "alarming" decline of West Indies cricket, recalling their past dominance. He notes the recent 27 all-out against Australia as an example of their struggles. He attributes this decline to the unequal distribution of broadcast deal money, where the "big three" (Australia, India, England) take the majority, leaving less for teams like West Indies to develop players and facilities.
Watch full interview with Saj here:
