Australian Cricket: The Cost of winning at all Costs and Tarnished Brand Image

Abstract

This case explores the deep cultural reasons behind the ball tampering incident by the Australian players that shook the cricketing world. The first part of the case deals with the ascendance of Australian Cricket, from the lows in its history in mid 1980s when it had to recall a retired 41-year-old player to arrest a slew of losses till mid 2000s when Australian Cricket was at its peak under Steve Waugh. Under Waugh, Australia played 57 matches to register an incomparable record of 41 wins and only 9 losses. However, Australia failed to keep that record under Waugh’s successors.

Part B of the case details how the pressure of maintaining the legacy, subsequent captains and players resorted to test the boundaries of cricket laws and clearly were not respecting spirit of the game. Their motto was win at any cost. The decadence continued till a rookie cricketer tampered the ball – an offence that attracted 12-month ban from the game for the player along with his Captain and the Deputy Captain.

This case is suitable for Organizational Behaviour and Organizational Culture courses at the PG level, providing an opportunity for a rich discussion over the role of team culture as a defining factor in success of the team. The case can also be used in any course dealing with team dynamics, leadership and ethics.