Narre Warren South cricketer Darren Pattinson’s Test debut for England has been embroiled in criticism. 07716 Picture: Stewart Chambers.By Marc McGowan
WHO would have thought a humble Narre Warren South cricketer could cause such a stir abroad?
Darren Pattinson, the hard-working Dandenong Panthers and Victorian paceman, was selected for the England Test team on Friday after a scintillating start to the season for county side Nottinghamshire.
This after having only made his one-day debut for Victoria late in 2006 and having played 11 first class matches.
And after Pattinson had spent all of his life in Australia since migrating with his parents as a six-year-old from east coast fishing town Grimsby.
The 29-year-old was not even in the initial squad for England’s clash with South Africa, but was called in as cover for fellow quick James Anderson, who was struggling with a back complaint.
In the end it was another injury – to Ryan Sidebottom – that thrust Pattinson, who is not an Australian citizen, into the team and the spotlight.
What originally was a heart-warming story quickly turned into a wave of attack from the English press and former England players alike.
The beleaguered Pattinson toiled on, opening the bowling and managing two wickets in the first innings, but the criticism continued to rage.
It did not help his cause that the England side was being thrashed and ultimately succumbed by 10 wickets to the Proteas.
The result was apparent almost from the first day’s play, and Pattinson became the scapegoat for England’s performance.
His father John, who was born in England and still supports the country in sport, says the drama would not have fazed his son, but Pattinson’s wife Elise is said to be upset.
There is no doubt, however, that Pattinson’s initial excitement over his selection – he relayed the news to his father at 12.30am on Friday – would have significantly dulled.
“I never thought this would happen – not in my wildest dreams,” John said.
“It’s just unbelievable. It’s his dream and my dream.
“I’ve got mixed feelings about the criticism. I’ve read quite a few articles on the computer and it’s been an absolute disgrace.”
Much of the furore has centred around Pattinson’s worthiness, considering his inexperience and allegiance to Australia.
His coach at Dandenong, Warren Ayres, has even been caught up in the frenzy, being quoted regularly suggesting Pattinson was extremely fortunate.
“Darren’s a great friend of mine; it’s wonderful and a great thing to happen – to be quoted like that is really disappointing,” he said.
“I sent him a text message today (Friday) to say good luck and I hope he doesn’t read that stupid paper which misquotes things.”
Ayres is certainly not alone in his elation over Pattinson’s ascension, with long-time Doveton Cricket Club member Keith Dawson another who is thrilled with his achievement.
“It’s just a fantastic effort to think someone can come from local cricket and play Test cricket,” he said.
“I’ve known him since he was a little kid and he’s a top bloke and he’s always had heaps of ability.”
Pattinson spent his junior and part of his senior career with Doveton – winning the Wookey Medal as a 19-year-old in 1998 – and returned to Robinson Reserve for a summer in the 2002-03 season.
Victorian coach Greg Shipperd has seen major progression in Pattinson’s game since he first became involved with the Bushrangers.
“For anyone to play Test cricket is a fabulous achievement and he is now one of a rare few that have played at that level,” he said.
“He’s strong, he’s learning how to move and control the ball, and how to dismantle a batsman tactically.
“I’m sure he’ll come back a better player for Victoria.”
