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Shane Warne says James Anderson’s threat of a punch in the face to George Bailey was the spark that led to Michael Clarke’s fiery outburst in the Ashes opener.
Clarke was fined 20 per cent of his match fee by the International Cricket Council on Monday after a heated exchange with Anderson in the final stages of Australia’s 381-run victory in Brisbane.
Legspin great Warne, who has access to the uncensored version of stump microphone recordings as a member of the Nine Network’s commentary team, said Anderson had threatened the debutant, who was fielding at bat pad.
“I think it’s a disgrace that @MClarke23 has been fined. What about what Jimmy Anderson said to Bailey, which wasn’t heard,” Warne posted on Twitter late on Monday.
“@MClarke23 stuck up for his debutant Bailey as he should have too as capt after Anderson said he wanted to punch Bailey in the face.
“Unfortunately only Clarke’s reaction to Anderson’s was heard live, we all heard Anderson’s sledge that led to Clarke reacting.
“To me it should just stay out in the middle. They all shook hands had a giggle & moved on. By fining Clarke it’s made a big deal out of it.
“Everyone should have just laughed, moved on & be thankful for ashes fever. Bring on Adelaide I’m sure both teams are saying #ashes.
“Lastly as an international sportsman, if you decide to dish it out ie sledging you have to be prepared to cop it back too & not complain.”
Bailey refused to shed any light on the kerfuffle.
“He must have been just a bit upset about the way the game was going I guess,” the Tasmanian told reporters on his return to Hobart.
“I’m not one for saying much … I’m pretty quiet out there.”
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