Puttick defends Gibbs' decision by CricketArchive Staff Reporter

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Player:	AG Puttick, HH Gibbs
Event:	Champions League 2009/10

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DateLine: 18th October 2009

 

Cape Cobras captain Andrew Puttick said that the team respected Herschelle Gibbs' decision not to play against Victoria Bushrangers after a security scare.

 

Hours before the start of the match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore, a player from Jammu and Kashmir's under-22 team was questioned by the city's police after security devices suggested the presence of explosive material in a bag in his room. While the Cobras and Victoria remained at their hotel, the police conducted a search of the stadium and eventually decided there was no cause for concern.

 

Cobras skipper Puttick defended that decision and said: "It was really a difficult situation as there were lots of reports flying around.

 

"Then Gibbs said he wanted out because he would not be able to deliver his best under the circumstances.

 

"We respected that decision. If you are not comfortable then there is no use playing.

 

"There was a lot of confusion initially, but I didn't have to say anything special to the team."

 

In spite of the absence of Gibbs, the Cobras - chasing 126 to win a game shortened to 17 overs - rode on a fine 69 not out from Henry Davids to coast to an eight-wicket victory with an over to spare.

 

"I'm really proud with the way the guys turned up today and were able to focus quickly," Puttick said.

 

"The key for us was to strike early and that's what we did.

 

"It was a great start with two wickets in the first over and after that we never really let them get going," he said.