Cricket Australia has taken the extraordinary step of suspending player interviews with the ABC, the national broadcaster, following on-air criticism from former Test fast bowler and current commentator Stuart Clark. The move has sparked controversy and left regional listeners without their usual post-play access to the Australian team.
The Comments That Sparked the Controversy
The dispute erupted on Monday when Stuart Clark, serving as an ABC commentator, launched a fierce critique of the national cricket setup. Clark labelled head of cricket James Allsopp a "grade coach" and suggested chief selector George Bailey lacked the gravitas to stand up to star players and coaches, implying he was merely a yes-man.
These remarks did not sit well with Cricket Australia's leadership. CEO Todd Greenberg met with Clark on Tuesday to express his displeasure and to defend the reputations of both Allsopp and Bailey. Greenberg clarified that Clark's views were not shared by Cricket NSW, where Clark also serves as a selector and board member.
Immediate Fallout and Radio Silence
The direct consequence of the spat was a boycott of the ABC by Cricket Australia. Typically, the national broadcaster is granted a player interview at the close of play each day. However, on day three of the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney, this access was withdrawn.
While there is no formal contractual obligation to provide a player, the move was seen as a significant breach of protocol. This meant that after Steve Smith scored a century to put Australia in command against England, he spoke to other broadcasters but not to the ABC, which holds the radio broadcast rights.
ABC commentator Corbin Middlemas voiced his frustration live on air, stating it was "extremely disappointing" for listeners across the country, especially in regional areas. He emphasised that the Australian cricket team is a "public good" and that all Australians have a stake in it.
Behind the Figures and What Happens Next
James Allsopp is reportedly highly regarded within Cricket Australia, having worked his way up from roles in high-performance management, women's state coaching, and as CEO of Cricket ACT. George Bailey, despite facing regular criticism from some former players, has overseen a successful period as chief selector since taking the role in 2021.
Despite the public tension, Clark described his Tuesday meeting with Greenberg as "cordially". He noted their long-standing friendship, spanning over two decades from their time working together at the NRL, and suggested they would likely laugh about the incident later. He stated there was no point in a public war of words.
It is understood that the regular post-play interviews with the ABC are expected to resume as normal from Wednesday, indicating the boycott may be a short-lived, pointed protest. The incident highlights the delicate balance between media critique and institutional access in Australian sport.
