‘Alcohol should be banned at cricket venues’ – Gautam Gambhir after racial slurs mar SCG Test

Gautam Gambhir, the former Indian left-handed batsman, reckons that consumption of alcohol should be banned at cricket venues around the world. The veteran’s comments came after Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah had to endure racial discrimination during India’s third Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

On the third day, a few drunk Australian spectators hurled abuses at the players. To make things worse, in the post-lunch session of Day 4, the crowd again tried to get under Siraj’s skin. In the end, after the match and security officials investigated into the matter, six people were evicted from the SCG.

Gambhir, who retired from the sport back in December 2018, stated that consuming alcohol is a primary reason behind the indifferent behaviour from the audience. He also asked for strict punishment for the wrongdoers, thereby setting a precedent for the others.

I would highly recommend a stricter punishment for the offenders: Gautam Gambhir

“The fact that cricket is happening should because of celebration hence incidents such as these are unfortunate. Also, I think alcohol should be stopped at cricket venues. It brings out a very indifferent behaviour from the spectators.

“Besides, I would highly recommend a stricter punishment for the offenders. It should be exemplary so that others learn a lesson and it’s not repeated,” Gambhir was quoted as saying on India Today.

Gambhir also lamented that the unnecessary controversy has overshadowed the display of cricket on the field. As per him, the people around the world should appreciate the cricketers for their efforts at a stage when the COVID-19 pandemic has dictated terms.

“I think this incident has taken the shine off a good, hard-fought series. One or two bad elements have tarnished the image of Aussie crowds. With the background of COVID-19 and its impact, one would like to believe that crowds over the world would be sympathetic towards each other and the players,” Gambhir added.

After Siraj and Bumrah faced the racial slurs, the Indian team lodged an official complaint. Thereafter, Cricket Australia put forth a statement, condemning the act. Earlier, Aussie greats like Shane Warne, Michael Hussey among others also showed their disgust over the matter.