|
Make the pitch I want or you will be shot
|
|
When Australian manager Sam Loxton met Pakistan's military ruler Ayub Khan before the tour of 1959/60 commenced, he made it clear that they were expecting turf wickets and not the matting.
Loxton also said that unless Pakistan shift to playing on turf wickets, they will not encourage fast bowlers in the country.
Just before the Karachi Test, the two of them met again. Loxton then understood how much his views had an effect on Field-Marshall Khan.
Khan summoned the ground manager and asked: "My man, on what surface is this Test match being played?"
The ground manager replied proudly: "It is being played on mats, sir."
Ayub frowned and warned him: "This is the last Test match played on Pakistan on matting. Otherwise, you will be shot!"