‘Barmy Army’ cheer for Cummins’ ailing mother wins Ponting’s heart
Batting great Ricky Ponting has said that the sympathy shown by the cricket community to Pat Cummins’ ailing mother has been wonderful, referring to the ‘barmy army’. Cummins returned home after the opening two matches of the Border Gavaskar series to take care of his ailing mother. Ponting said, “I have spoken to Cummins twice. When I came to know that he was leaving the tour midway and going home, I could understand the reason.His mother has been ill for the last few years.
He said, “The support Cummins received during this time shows how united our small world of cricket is.” (instrumental) cheered Cummins and his mother by playing the song ‘Maria’ from the movie ‘West Side Story’. Cummins’ mother’s name is also Maria.
Asked if he had seen the video, Ponting said, “It’s brilliant and shows how united the cricket fraternity is.” Just snickered in a light hearted way but I think they are the best group of sports fans. He said the ‘Barmy Army’ travel all over the world to support their Test team. They continue to support even when the team is playing poorly.
