Michael Vaughan proposes to scrap stump mic post Rabada ban
The suspension came as an aftermath of Rabada swearing at Ben Stokes, which was picked up by the stump microphone.
In a recent turn of events, young South African pacer, Kagiso Rabada was banned from taking part in the second Test against England, in the ongoing bilateral series between the two teams. The suspension came as an aftermath of Rabada swearing at Ben Stokes, which was picked up by the stump microphone.
However, former England captain, Michael Vaughan has spoken up for Rabada and proposed for stump microphones to be scrapped if they are going to be used to ban players for foul language.
The 22-year old Protean bowler received a demerit point following his spat with Stokes on the field. The event occurred after he had dismissed Stokes during England’s 211-run win at Lord’s. Further, 15% of his match fee was deducted as a result of the incident.
However, he received a bigger blow by the demerit point as it took his total to four points in a two-year period. Under the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) code of conduct, this led to the suspension.
Michael Vaughan not happy with the suspension
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 live, Vaughan said, “What is worse for the game? The slow over rate we saw on day one – nothing gets done about it. Then a couple of words and Rabada misses the next Test match. Over the years I don’t think I ever faced a bowler who didn’t use that kind of language. In the heat of the battle out in the middle, I’m sorry, there are going to be swear words.”
Vaughan further clarified his stance on the usage of abusive language on the cricket field by saying, “I’m not supporting bad language. I just don’t want players like him missing Tests. If the stump mic is going to pick these things up I’d get rid of it.”
Graeme Smith also speaks up for Rabada
In a similar strain, former South Africa captain, Graeme Smith in an interview to BBC Radio 5 live, said, “Cricket has far bigger issues. Test cricket needs its stars playing and the Trent Bridge crowd will miss seeing Rabada play because of a lack of common sense.”
He emphasized on the need for quality cricket for the fans, which can hardly be fulfilled without the unhindered participation of young, fiery talent and said, “You don’t want to be watching robots out in the middle. It’s wonderful to have characters. Incidents like this cannot be consistently managed going forward – so they must go.”
The second Test between England and South Africa begins at Trent Bridge on Friday.
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