Easy money through IPL, Big Bash is spoiling cricketers: McGrath

Chandigarh, Aug 24: Quick bucks made through popular Twenty20 leagues are spoiling fast bowlers across the world as they stop working hard after initial success, laments Australian pace legend Glenn McGrath.

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"Biggest issue which I find, probably not just in India, probably around the world is how hard they are prepared to work.

And if they do get little bit of success playing in IPL or big bash in Australia is that they get to that level and they think they have made it and they stop working hard and they stop training as much," McGrath said after a coaching clinic here for Under-23 pacers at PCA stadium here.

"Young bowlers have to be prepared to work hard and then work even harder to stay there, there are no easy options or short cuts. Sometimes, I see young cricketers reach a certain standard, all of a sudden they get paid good money and they stop work.

"I think money should always be secondary. It's great that cricketers are earning good money. But if money is secondary and it's all about going out there, performing at their best and keeping themselves in best condition. Then that money will be there all the time. And I think that's the attitude young cricketers should have. Ultimate goal should always be representing your country."

With the cricket boards opening to the idea of day night Test with the Pink ball and experimenting with the idea, McGrath said the "pink ball adds a new dimension to the game."

India are hosting the Duleep Trophy matches with pink ball this season even as Australia and New Zealand have already played a Test match with pink ball under flood lights.

"Pink ball adds a new dimension to the game, I don't mind it. With T20 really taking the world by storm, Test cricket to me is really important. We got to hold it in high regard," McGrath said.

McGrath said the bowlers, specially the pacemen, will have a clear advantage in the contest.

"Obviously the pink ball does a little bit more, you got a little bit grass on the wicket. It loses colour very quickly and the ball doesn't hold up like the older, specially the Test ball. It's a little bit more in bowler's favour, it's going to swing around, it's going to nip around a little bit more. I think bowlers will enjoy bowling with the pink ball, but at the end of the day they still they have to get the ball in the right area," he said.

PTI