Sheffield Shield 2021/22

Watch: ‘Elite tantrum’ – James Pattinson slammed for hurting batter with return throw as frustration boils over during blockathon

by Wisden Staff November 8, 2021 - 10:44am 3 minute read

Watch: Former Australian seamer James Pattinson caught New South Wales batter Daniel Hughes off-guard with a return throw and hit him flush on the leg.

The opening batter was leading the NSW resistance in the Sheffield Shield clash between the sides. At the time of the incident, he had kept out 244 balls for his 64, with time running out for the Victorian bowlers to seal victory. Victora needed four wickets to complete the win, but with Hughes immoveable, the game was in the balance.

The lead-up to saw several heated moments between Hughes and Pattinson, with the bowler frustrated at not being able to break through. There were appeals and close shaves, but Hughes survived. Finally, Pattinson, who recently retired from international cricket, got a perfect yorker in.

But the set batter managed it with ease, driving the ball back to the bowler. The frustrated Pattinson hurled the ball back at the batter, who never left his ground, in anger, with the ball hitting Hughes on the leg.

Pattinson apologized immediately as Hughes fell to his knees in visible pain.

The commentators weren’t impressed with Pattinson. “There is no attempted run,” one said. “It was a firm drive…he wasn’t attempting a run.”

There were calls for Pattinson to face repercussions, with some suggesting he should be removed from the attack and others calling for a ban for the quick. Others felt there was no need to over-react to the moment.

Hughes remained unbeaten throughout the innings, facing 319 balls for his 89, but Victoria won the game by 174 runs.