Kiwi cricketer Mitchell McClenaghan criticizes gambling for instances of online abuse

Mitchell McClenaghan has lashed out at gambling lovers for online abuse meted out to players. The New Zealand cricketer now 31 year old, blasted the trolls online after facing abuse following Big Bash League exit of the Sydney Thunder.

He was clearly unhappy and said that it hurts when people react by saying they lost money owing to performance of single players. McClenaghan said it is downright silly that people put their money randomly on games and then blame players to vent their frustration. He added the players perform at their best and it isn’t like desk jobs. The abuse is something they do not deserve.

McClenaghan is now back to NZ after playing in recently held Pakistan Super League. He is of the view that such instances of abuse are more seen in Australia than other places. He was targeted by some irate social media users, the previous week after he conceded 25 runs in the last over of Melbourne’s innings. Many of those comments had abusive language and the player was targeted in particular.

Despite the abusive online attacks, McClenaghan is not exactly thinking of stopping usage of social media. He said the platforms enable players to promote cricket and youngsters also benefit in the long run. He would have loved to reach out to his idols had social media existed in his growing up years. He added the athletes should communicate to youngsters.

He also said social media should be used for things that can help people- even in this context. Sharing tips, answering queries of budding players can be quite useful. Some responses can also bring joy to the lives of people. Incidentally, McClenaghan also faced social media abuse after his failure in IPL auction. He reverted by tweeting and said the people venting out despair by abusing online did not affect him or his happiness.