Time to move on from Sydneygate: Greig and Lee

Today marks the fourth anniversary of Sydneygate. On January 6, 2008, a feeling of acrimony was felt by all at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Ricky Ponting's integrity was challenged by the Press. Anil Kumble had an emotional outburst. It was a day when fanatic Indians in Australia threatened to physically attack umpire Steve Bucknor. It was the day when Australia completed their 16th consecutive Test victory.


Ponting confirms that Ganguly is well and truly caught at the SCG on
January 6, 2008.

A bitter taste was left in most Indians around the world. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) even threatened to call off the tour. "I have seen every Sydney Test match except one due to a heart-attack in 1993-94 (when South Africa beat Australia). What happened in January 2008 will remain my worst memory of an SCG Test," distinguished cricket historian and author Kersi Meher-Homji said.

Tony Greig felt that the controversy is distant memory. "We have all moved on. The players, the ones who saw it unfold and criticised it, and even the fans. A lot has happened since then. There's really no point in rekindling those memories," the former England captain said.

Brett Lee, who played that controversial Test match, too claimed to have moved on. "Ah, that feels like ages ago. Everyone's moved on," he said.