SPORTS LETTERS: In praise of glorious Devon

From J Seecoomar

Sir: Bravo Devon! Ever since that first delivery with the second new ball went down the leg side in the final Test in South Africa, I prayed that Devon was wreaking his revenge. After all, he had been publicly and mercilessly lynched and the opportunity would not come again.

I knew that this was a wasted prayer. For I had seen last-wicket pairs defy the world's best bowlers in my time, but it demonstrated the anger and humiliation I had felt every time he was openly whipped.

It really could not have escaped the attention of any thoughtful observer that the English cricket authorities seem to resent having to play non- white players in the national side.

They use them for a time, but then discard them at the earliest opportunity. How else can one explain the widely different treatment which Graeme Hick and Mark Ramprakash have received? And there is a roll of those who have gone before.

English cricket will continue to languish until those who control the game are prepared to recognise and nurture real talent. There is not a lot of it about in the country.

Yours sincerely,

J SEECOOMAR

London NW2