'I've been put in a situation not of my making'

'I never complained' - Symonds

Cricinfo staff

October 20, 2007

Andrew Symonds: "It is pleasing to see the authorities in Mumbai tackling the issue" © AFP

Andrew Symonds wants to make it clear that he has not complained about his treatment from spectators during the one-day series in India. Symonds has been a target of sections of the home crowds, especially during the seventh match in Mumbai on Wednesday, but he insists he has not sought to make an issue out of the abuse and has only responded to questions when asked about the incidents.

"Over the past couple of weeks, I have felt as though I have been put in a situation that is not of my making," Symonds said in the Sydney Morning Herald. "I never made a complaint at any venue, but I did answer media questions asking whether I had heard the chants aimed at me in Vadodara."

At the time Symonds said he was not bothered by the treatment, but he was more upset that the abuse had been denied by local authorities. "I tried to defuse the original situation by interacting with the crowd," he said. "I feel that the print and TV media have badly misrepresented my views at times over the past three matches."

Symonds, who is uncomfortable in the off-field spotlight, said he understood racism in all sports was a sensitive, serious and global issue. "It is pleasing to see the authorities here in Mumbai tackling the issue following the seventh one-day match," he said in the Australian. "I would much prefer the focus be on the cricket and for the cricket to be played in an atmosphere where players and spectators can enjoy a good day out, full of excitement and go home having had a great day of sport."

Tim Nielsen, the Australia coach, was impressed with the way Symonds had coped with the unwanted attention. "The most positive thing from my regard is that he has been the Player of the Series under that sort of pressure," Nielsen said. "That shows a strength of mind and a lot of support from his team-mates."

© Cricinfo