Former NZ skipper terms Australian players 'idiots'

Former New Zealand captain John Reid feels some members of the Australian cricket team are "idiots" who need to be reined in.

Former New Zealand captain John Reid feels some members of the Australian cricket team are "idiots" who need to be reined in.

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Reid's comments, also a former ICC match referee, came after Australian paceman Mitchell Johnson head-butted Scott Styris in a show of aggression during the first one-dayer in Napier.

"Generally the Australian team looks good, but there are a handful of idiots who need to be reined in," Reid was quoted as saying in 'The Age'.

"Do your work with the bat and the ball, not your mouth."

While some praised Johnson for sparking life into the series, Reid said the aggression displayed by the pacer was "not required".

Australia is playing a five-match ODI series with Kiwis. Series is levelled at 1-1.

Reid said players need to understand the importance of playing the game in good spirit. "Like it or not, these guys are role models for youngsters. Johnson was the aggressor, but he's mad head-butting someone with a helmet on."