
Gayle: Poor form keeping fans away
West Indies captain Chris Gayle thinks his team's poor form might have contributed to the disappointing attendances.
The second ODI between the West Indies and AUstralia at Adelaide Oval on Tuesday attracted just 8,378 and the numbers at the opening fixture at the MCG were well below par too.
Several media commentators believe the 50-over game has passed its use-by date but Gayle said the downward trend would be arrested if his team started to dish up some competitive performances against the Aussies.
"We just have to keep (the series) open again and get it to 2-1 up and then make the series more interesting so you guys can actually have something to cheer about, and the fans and cricket needs it," Gayle said.
"Hopefully we can actually get things happening for us and then take it from there, make it more interesting so you can get some more ticket sales."
There have also been some calls to increase the amount of Twenty20 internationals and reduce the amount of 50-over matches but Gayle said the scheduling was fine.
"I'm happy with five ODIs to be honest with you, it's not a problem. Two Twenty20s is not a lot so that's OK with me at this point in time," he said.
Doug Bollinger, who was man of the match on Tuesday, remains a supporter of the 50-over format and believes the crowds will return to the games in coming seasons.
"It's a working day so not everyone can be coming today. I'm just glad we've got people coming out. I think one-day cricket is a great game, 50-over cricket is a great game and it's going to be around for a long time," he said.
"I think everyone knows we are playing well and winning helps doesn't it? But you've got to look next year with the Ashes, every game will be sold out, and no-one will have a problem then.
"We are just enjoying the 50-over format at the moment and having a great time."
Meanwhile Gayle has his own personal problems to deal with after Bollinger dismissed him for the second time this series. He admitted the New South Wales quick was proving a tough opponent this summer but added Australia's entire bowling attack was applying the pressure.
"He's definitely got my measure, there's no doubt about it. But I'm looking forward to the contest in Sydney, these things are good for the game and hopefully this time we can get a start and not expose our middle order too early again," he said.
"When you look at the bowling attack all the guys are in form, you must give them credit for that. They keep making changes and the guys that replace them still come in and do a good job."
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