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[Ussie]

It seems positive for sure. But if he ever plays against the Aussies, then what are the odds that they will sledge his 'preferences' in an attempt to throw his concentration when he comes out to bat?

Agreed -the aussies are going to enjoy this.

Personally, couldnt care less

[justnotcricket86]

Fair play Mike, I know you deleted the last thread as the idiots came out the woods for it.

I think it's a top move by Steven. You may have a point regarding it possibly affecting his game, that sort of pressure would surely play on your mind. I have friends that are gay, and I know the feelings they went through before coming out to friends and family, never mind the press and international cricket circuit. It's a shame that, although it's 2011, the majority of the society we live in continue to see this as a taboo subject.

I think he is a class player

[golders]

Dont see why its an issue....i dont feel the need to come out and say im not gay

It may not be an issue for you Tom, but it clearly was for him. He was clearly finding it a burden not to be open about his sexuality. good on him I say, and if he feel better then good for him. Also think it was very harsh that he was dropped in favour prior- who looks a completely different player in comparison to the test match version!

[golders]

lots of curious women in ladies hockey I found when I coached it

why did you give it up?Im gonna get myself on a hockey coaching course...

[petehosk]

If the Aussies try to put him off by sledging him for his preferences, (the Aussies are pretty ruthless) then he can get them back when he is keeping by making comments to throw their concentration when they are taking their guard! That would be funny!!!
Being gay in this day and age is so blooming common and accepted in as many places as Visa credit cards!
My nephew is gay and came out when he was 16 or 17! Plus the missus has friends who are gay - really doesn't feel strange, and I never feel uncomfortable in their company! In fact, at the risk of generalising, gay men tend to be more extrovert and have bigger personalities than more straight guys! Or at least I have found that in my experience! 

[Riddy]

i just fail to see why he feels the need to say it :/

[petehosk]

Maybe cos he feels that he has lived a lie (pretending to be straight) and feels he needs to be honest and open - so that he can be himself!??

[petehosk]

And that he wants to be accepted for who he is?

[roco]

I have found they are always the first to shout a round in so ok by me

[awp]

It seems positive for sure. But if he ever plays against the Aussies, then what are the odds that they will sledge his 'preferences' in an attempt to throw his concentration when he comes out to bat?

If someone makes a big deal about things they're making a rod for their own back, I think you would find Aussie sledges a more focussed on the players ability rather than anything else, but don't let that stop your anti-Australian posts Pete.

[rp27]

I saw his interview on 'this morning,' and he said he hoped that coming out would help others playing the sport become more comfortable in being open about their sexuality. And for that, i really respect the guy.

[roco]

Aussie sledges are about everything did one Aussie not enquire about bothams wife and kids plus others weight?

Those were nothing to do with there ability

[Johng]

No way the Australians would participate in Sexual vilification as they could find themselves in hot water back in Australia as this type of behavior is extremely frowned upon here in Australia.
Who cares what Steve Davies sexual preference is as long as he is a good sport and cricketer.

[Talisman]

If the last major census was correct and 1% of the population is gay then there must be a fair few cricketers who have not come out in many different countries so it would be good if a high profile case like this helps more to be open.

Sledging is stupid, puerile and sometimes even funny but has nothing to do with being fair or residing within the spirit of the game, gay comments will always be used to taunt people as a rise.

[justnotcricket86]

It was going around that the press got hold of it and were going to break the story anyway, hence the interview with the Telegraph.

Nothing wrong with it at all, and Pete's right, he would have some funny comebacks when he is keeping...just wonder if he is the type of player to do that. Always seemed very quiet in the field