Five-wicket Jones apologises for Sarwan outburst

Tuesday, March 23, 2004

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (AFP): Fast bowler Simon Jones apologised on Monday for his astonishing outburst at Ramnaresh Sarwan as he put England on the verge of victory in the second Test.

Jones, who took 5-57 as the West Indies collapsed to 209 all out in their second innings, could still face disciplinary action from the International Cricket Council for his enthusiastic celebration. 

After the Glamorgan bowler won a lbw decision against Sarwan to leave West Indies teetering on 56 for 3, Jones followed-through to within inches of the West Indies vice-captain.

He screamed in his face and had to be ushered away by team-mates. 

"I didn't say anything to him," Jones insisted. 

"I just yelled. I was just excited to get the wicket.

"I've got no hard feelings towards Sarwan - it was just nice to the get the wicket. The umpires had a chat to me about it and I apologised to them about what happened, but there was nothing nasty there.

"I bowled him a half-volley the ball before and I was just frustrated with myself. That's all it was.

"It's the first time that I've had a good rhythm and timing and felt relaxed. I was much more relaxed today and tried to enjoy it more as well rather than put pressure on myself to do well."

But the close of play on the fourth day, England were 71-2, needing just 28 more runs to take a 2-0 lead in the four match series.

"I do not think I was successful in the earlier matches on tour because I was just coming back from a long layoff with injury and it felt like I was starting over again. It felt a little strange to be back in the team, but this match has helped me to relax much, much more," said Jones.

"It was great to get the fifth wicket. I had a chat with England coach Duncan Fletcher and he said that we should bowl full and straight. The first ball to Pedro Collins, I nearly got through, but he stuck it out for another few overs, so it was nice to get him because I think Matthew Hoggard would have cleaned him up.

"I think the bowlers are working well as a unit. The confidence is high in the team and you could tell by the way the boys batted towards the end of the day. 

"Its good to have such a confident state of mind. It would have been nice to have knocked off the runs and have a day off, but we only need a few runs."

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