Australia has had a good summer, but needs to take stock and focus: Roebuck

Sydney, Apr.1 (ANI): Australia's imposing results on the cricket field ought to be greeted with mixed emotions, feels columnist Peter Roebuck.

"Congratulations are due, but the implications for the game at large are troubling. More than any other game, cricket depends on international matches," Roebuck says in an article for the Sydney Morning Herald.

He also says that while Australia has ended its summer on a high note, there is a need for players' association to sit down with Cricket Australia to work out a program that takes families, bodies, minds, spirits and cricket into account.

He says that the year gone by has been lucky for Australia in the sense that replacements were available for established but injured stars.

"Next time, CA (Cricket Australia) might not be blessed with a side able to retain its focus for so long or leaders so reluctant to complain," Roebuck said.

"For now, it is enough to reflect on a long season and to pick out a few moments and players to savour. Simon Katich batted capably in his grizzled way, Shane Watson continued his timely emergence as a forthright opener, Ponting impressed as leader and slips catcher but less so as tactician and batsman, Michael Clarke was twinkle-toed and consistent, Michael Hussey rescued several innings and his career and Marcus North looked brilliant and useless, often in the same match, while Brad Haddin straight drove superbly and kept well enough to avoid attention," he says.

"Among the bowlers, Doug Bollinger grabbed his chance and became the sort of bonza bloke every side needs. Ryan Harris' breakthrough as a sturdy speedster able to swing the ball confirmed that shield cricket is in good order. Nathan Hauritz recovered from his setback at the Oval to bat and bowl with distinction. Some of his wickets were cheap but he persevered and dared to attack. Steven Smith caught the eye, the under-19 side won its World Cup, the ODI side dominated and the T20 team played vibrant cricket. It bodes well. But, then, Australia is not the problem," he concludes. (ANI)