Cricket supporters have launched a fierce campaign to have Australian legend Matthew Hayden removed from Channel 7's Ashes broadcasting team, following a pre-match speech widely criticised as awkward and poorly delivered.
The Gabba Monologue That Sparked Backlash
Ahead of the second Test in Brisbane, Hayden delivered a stirring address from the stands at The Gabba, surrounded by fans. The former opener, who scored 8,625 runs in 103 Tests, used the platform to extol the virtues of his home state, Queensland, while taking subtle jabs at Victoria and England.
He began by welcoming viewers to the 'Woolloongabba', describing it as his backyard and speaking of the dream for every young Queenslander to play at the historic ground. Hayden emphasised the local character, stating, 'We're a pretty rare breed up here us Queenslanders... Tough not timid.'
Swipes at the South and England's Record
The commentary took a pointed turn as Hayden contrasted Queensland with Australia's southern states. 'No doubt about it we have got cricket down in the south of our country - that may be where it was born - but the reality... is I can tell you this: This is where we work to get tough in the hot Queensland baking sun,' he declared.
He then highlighted England's dismal record at the venue, noting it had been 14,216 days since England last won at The Gabba in 1986. Directly addressing England's Stuart Broad, Hayden proclaimed the ground a 'fortress' for Cricket Australia and warned, 'our locals here are going to try and eat you alive.'
Social Media Erupts with Criticism
The reaction on social media was swift and largely negative. Many fans found the presentation style, which included some rambling and mispronunciations, deeply uncomfortable.
One fan wrote on X: 'Matthew Hayden great opening batsman also possibly the most cringeworthy commentator of all time.' Another suggested, 'If Channel 7 wanted to make money they could ask viewers to pay to remove Matthew Hayden from commentary. Probably make enough in one day to end world hunger.'
Further criticism focused on his delivery, with one viewer pleading: 'Could someone... remind him it's television not radio, so he doesn't have to fill every moment with the sound of his own voice.'
Hayden, 52, retired from all cricket in September 2012 after a career that included stints with Hampshire, Northamptonshire, and the Brisbane Heat. He has since become a regular pundit for Fox and Seven's cricket coverage, and also commentated on the ICC's feed for the World Test Championship earlier this year. The calls for his removal mark a significant challenge to his post-playing media career.
