Thiruvananthapuram: Entrusted to open the innings against Richard Hadlee at a time when batsmen world over feared facing the great Kiwi, David Boon nonchalantly faced the thunderbolts hurdled at him
When he made his debut, David Doon had dreamt that through him, his tiny home state of Tasmania should get attention of the whole world. Boon’s dreams haven’t changed even 20 years after he retired from international cricket.
“Tasmania is very close to my heart,” says Boon who is in Kerala as one of the ambassadors of Tasmania.
The Australian legend stressed the importance of both states – Kerala and Tasmania – working together in the field of sports and business in an interview with Onmanorama. Excerpts.
On his role as ambassador of Tasmania
More than as a former Australian cricketer, I am here in Kerala as the ambassador of Tasmania. We will be visiting most of the Asian countries. We are aiming for business deals from India in the fields of education, sports and business. I am proud of being a Tasmanian. There is tremendous scope for corporation with India especially in education and sports sectors.
We have discussed this with authorities in Delhi and Mumbai. Ricky Ponting was with us there for discussions. However, it is unlikely that Ponting will join us for discussion here in Kerala.
On the feasibility of drop-in-pitches at the Greenfield stadium in Kariyavattom
Drop-in pitches behave altogether differently. They should be prepared after taking into consideration the climatic conditions of the place. The local authorities should first decide if they want multipurpose stadiums.
Drop-in pitches are very expensive and it should be prepared according to financial condition of the host association. I also come from a place where there are lots of multipurpose stadiums. But using a stadium for various purposes saves a lot of money.
The stadiums where football and cricket matches are held can be used for conducting mega shows. Big stadium projects in the world are maintained using these methods. However, the stadiums should be properly maintained if the aim is to project cricket as the main game.
I don’t know the climate of Kerala and it is up to curators to prepare the pitch depending on the conditions.
On ICC’s decision to promote cricket outside member countries.
ICC has taken lot of steps to promote cricket. It is conducting tournaments in three tiers. Cricket is growing and is being played in more and more countries.
However, getting a Test status is different. Players should get opportunities to play cricket at both home and overseas. I think ICC should concentrate more on conducting bi-lateral series between different countries.