High expectations put pressure on sub-continental coaches: Moody

London, may 7 (UNI) Sri Lankan coach Tom Moody believes that passion for cricket and high expectations by fans in the sub-continent put extra pressure on coaches.

''There's a special pressure as well, just as there is in the other sub-continental countries. Along with a real passion for the game come very high expectations. Opinions about the coach or the team can change inside 24 hours, but that goes with this job,'' Moody told Sunday Observer.

''Maybe this is why all three sub-continental sides have gone for phlegmatic Anglo-Saxon types as coaches. The obvious reason is that they want an independent person with no political affiliations. And they recognise that, if the western mentality of professionalism and discipline can be allied to the natural flair of the sub-continental cricketers, there is a damn good side in the making. It's so important not to dilute that flair.'' The 40-year-old Aussie, who played eight Tests and 76 ODIs for his country, said as an onlooker the international cricket schedule is madness but refused to join a debate on the issue of possible player burnout.

''As an onlooker I would say that Sri Lankans' schedule, like those of most international teams, is madness. Let's say I was surprised by the volume of cricket. But I'm new in the job and I've been relishing every moment. As a coach I have to be very aware of the mental and physical demands on the players.'' Moody said his players are not too bothered of the issue.

''Sri Lankans don't complain much. They just get on with it.

Burn-out has never really been a talking point in our dressing room.

We've only just started to address it simply because it's been a global topic.'' UNI XC PDS PM1613