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The Ludk Of The Toss
Before the next series of Test
cricket matches it may he neces-
i sary to consider the vagaries and
potential injustice of "the toss." The
Englishmen were good enough to say that
they were beaten by a better side. Yet
there is significance in the fact that the
' team favored by a spin of the coin won
J each match.
The exaggerated importance of win-
! ning the toss has induced a special men-
! tality. The losing side, in whole or in
I part, is at once depressed and is apt to
! play accordingly. There is no doubt that
I changes of weather are apt to give the
! side batting first on a perfect wicket a great
I advantage. Some authorities estimate that
. the team which, in ordinary circumstances,
has to play the fourth innings, is penalised
I to the extent of 100 or 150 runs.
I One suggestion is that each team
I should have the right to bat first in two
I matches and the captains should toss for
I the fifth match. This seems a somewhat
I mechanical arrangement, ruling out some
I of the sporting spirit. A preferable plan
I would be to toss for the right to have
I the choice of innings, in the first, third and
I fifth matches, leaving the loser to bat first,
l' if he desire, in the second and fourth.
I Would this affect the interest in the games?
. Perhaps Marylebone will have something
to say.
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