During the third and final ODI at the Manuka Oval in Griffith on February 6, former Australia cricketer Mark Waugh criticized West Indies opener Kjorn Ottley. Australia secured victory in the final ODI by eight wickets, completing a series whitewash of 3-0.
Australia chose to bowl first, restricting West Indies to a mere 86 runs in 24.1 overs. Xavier Bartlett stood out with figures of 4/21. The hosts then chased down the target in just 6.5 overs, with wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis contributing an unbeaten 35 off 16 balls.
The match unfolded as one-sided, drawing significant criticism for Shai Hope and his team’s dismal performance against the World Champions. As a commentator during the game, Waugh particularly chastised Ottley, who managed only eight runs off seven deliveries.
Facing Bartlett in the third over, Ottley attempted to force a full, swinging delivery from the middle, missing it, and being struck on the pads. The hosts appealed for lbw, which was given by the umpire. Ottley, in consultation with his opening partner Alick Athanaze, opted against reviewing the decision.
However, replays later revealed a clear inside edge, indicating Ottley could have continued batting had he opted for a review.
Waugh’s reaction to Ottley’s dismissal was strongly worded: “He’s smashed it!! What an idiot. It sounded like there were two noises. My goodness, what are they doing?
That is just unforgivable.” Reflecting on the overall performance, Waugh expressed disappointment, emphasizing the need for introspection and improvement in the team’s batting mindset.
