Share

Lillee quits post over cash

Sydney - Fast bowling mentor Dennis Lillee has parted ways with Cricket Australia after being refused a pay rise, officials said on Tuesday.

The former great was drafted in to provide guidance and coaching advice to the national side on a part-time basis last year and was instrumental in rejuvenating the career of Mitchell Johnson.

He was credited with fixing the quick's technical problems and boosting the confidence of a player who spearheaded Australia's 5-0 Ashes Test whitewash of England and then the 2-1 victory over South Africa.

Lillee also worked with Pat Cummins and all-rounder James Faulkner.

Cricket Australia said on its website on Tuesday that the two had failed to agree terms "after protracted negotiations".

"Unfortunately Dennis Lillee didn't accept Cricket Australia's offer to renew his contract," a spokesperson said.

"He is a great of the game and the door will always be open to him if he wants to return and be involved in any way."

In a radio interview in February, Lillee accused Cricket Australia of "quibbling over an increase" to his pay and made it clear he would "take a stance" if they did not meet his terms.

Lillee is regarded as one of cricket's greatest fast bowlers, claiming a then-record 355 Test wickets in 70 Tests for Australia.

His decision to walk away came after Cricket Australia this week extended the contract of Test fast bowling coach Craig McDermott until 2016.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
How much would you be prepared to pay for a ticket to watch the Springboks play against the All Blacks at Ellis Park or Cape Town Stadium this year?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
R0 - R200
33% - 1814 votes
R200 - R500
32% - 1774 votes
R500 - R800
19% - 1081 votes
R800 - R1500
8% - 459 votes
R1500 - R2500
3% - 186 votes
I'd pay anything! It's the Boks v All Blacks!
5% - 252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE