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Rediff.com  » Sports » Pollock blames batsmen for defeat

Pollock blames batsmen for defeat

Source: PTI
October 09, 2005 18:50 IST
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World XI skipper Shaun Pollock blamed the inability of his star batsmen to produce even one "classy performance" for the 3-0 humiliation handed by Australia in the Super Series cricket championship in Melbourne.

"They (Australia) gave a superb performance throughout the series. We needed just one classy performance from the star players but they did not click together," Pollock said after the World XI suffered a 156-run defeat in the third and final one-dayer at the Telstra Dome on Sunday.

Pollock admitted his side was never in the hunt once it lost four wickets for some 30 odd runs.

"(Brett) Lee actually stalled our big chase by taking three wickets cheaply and that put pressure on us," the South African said.

Lee scalped West Indians Chris Gayle and Brian Lara for ducks and Jacques Kallis for two to wipe out the cream of World XI batting.

Pollock also heaped praise on the Australians for their splendid performance all through the series.

"They've really played well. They won the toss and went on superbly."

He was, however, hopeful of an improved show by his men in the six-day Super Test beginning on October 14.

"A couple of new guests will bring in more energy forming a new side for the Test so let's hope for the best," he said.

Australia captain Ricky Ponting said the victory meant a lot to his side after their humiliating Ashes defeat.

"It was an important series, especially after our recent performances. Our boys played really very very well," he said.

Adam Gilchrist, who was adjudged man of the series, said, "We had the energy to take on the world. We could stand for ourselves and that did come off well."

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