i think strauss was within his rights but it seems a bit petty. I wish when players adopted this "win at all costs" mentality, it exhibited itself in gutsy performances, brilliant fielding and bravery. Not petty tapping of the rule book.
StinkyBoHoon added 5 Minutes and 27 Seconds later...
I don't know how I've missed the point. You were trying to link Ryder getting a runner with the Smith situation.
Ryder had a groin strain - he was injured. He can have a runner, and I imagine England would have given him a runner.
Smith was cramping - he was tired. Why should we give every batsmen who gets a little out of puff a runner?
I think he was saying that, on the field that two aren't easily discernible. it wasn't like blood was gushing out of Ryder, he just felt sore.
one thing I have to say makes it unfair is, people are saying "oh he should have been better conditioned to bat for as long."
well england went a fair bit over the over rate, and were fined for it, when bowling meaning they extended play.