Tension between Aussie, Indian players creation of media: Clark
6 Sep 2008, 1337 Hrs

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Melbourne, Sep 6 (ANI): Australian Fast bowler Stuart Clark disagrees with Indian coach Gary Kirsten that four-Test sequel would have less tension without Andrew Symonds, and says that the reports of tension between the two teams is creation of media.

"That feeling stuff (between Australia and India), I've said all along it's a media thing. The sides get on well - off the field especially," The Age quoted Clark, as saying.

"There'll be a little bit of competitiveness which I hope is in any game of cricket or any sporting match between two countries. I wouldn't have thought there'd be too much niggle as far as the nasty stuff," he added.

Kirsten suggested that next month's four-Test sequel to the "Bollyline" series would have less tension without Symonds, who is expected to sit out the tour as he receives professional help on the recommendation of Cricket Australia.

"It's a tough one because Symonds is such a larger-than-life character. I wouldn't have thought so," Clark said.

"As much as what happened, people still love to see him playing cricket and people love playing against him and competing against him because he's that type of person."

Meanwhile, harmony within the Australian cricket team is not eroding despite the hostile nature of Symonds' departure from camp in Darwin last week.

Symonds' relationship with senior players and officials is icy after he was sent home for going fishing during a team meeting, but Bracken believes that a strong bond continues to exist between all players, and has offered to hear any of the all-rounder's concerns. (ANI)