USA Cricket’s Physiogate Scandal in Oman
Source: Peter Della Penna
The situation surrounding USA Cricket’s ongoing tour in Oman has taken a disturbing turn. Reports suggest that the controversy, now being called “Physiogate,” is far worse than anyone imagined.
No Physio for the USA Team
Before the first ODI against Namibia, a USA player suffered an injury and needed medical treatment. However, since USA Cricket did not send a physiotherapist with the team, they had to seek help elsewhere. An attempt was made to request assistance from the Namibia team physio. Unfortunately, Namibia’s head coach, Pierre de Bruyn, reportedly refused, stating that their physio was only contracted to treat Namibia players.
This decision left the injured USA player without proper care, raising serious concerns about USA Cricket’s lack of medical support for its own team.
A Disturbing Incident with the Namibia Physio
In an unrelated but even more troubling incident, a USA team administrator allegedly approached Namibia’s female physio and asked for a massage. The request was wildly inappropriate, and sources say it caused immediate discomfort. Former USA coach Stuart Law reportedly stepped in and told the USA staff member to stop. The incident has sparked outrage, with many questioning how such behavior was allowed to happen.
Who Is “Oddjob”?
The USA staff member involved in the controversy remains unnamed, partly because USA Cricket has not publicly revealed details about its backroom staff for the Oman tour. However, sources suggest he is new to the role and has never been on an overseas tour before.
Previously, the position was held by Kerk Higgins, who had an excellent reputation and worked with the team for eight years. He was dismissed via text message by USA Cricket chairman Venu Pisike after the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Orville Hall briefly took over but was also replaced. Instead, this new administrator—now being nicknamed “Oddjob”—was appointed.
Serious Questions for USA Cricket
The situation raises several troubling questions:
- How was “Oddjob” appointed?
- Was there a proper background check?
- Why was the team sent on tour without a physio?
USA Cricket has already faced past allegations of inappropriate behavior within the men’s team. Now, the latest controversy shows they may need stronger policies on player welfare and sexual harassment.
This scandal is deeply embarrassing for USA Cricket. A lack of professionalism, poor planning, and an alleged case of harassment have put the organization in a bad light. Urgent action is needed to restore trust and ensure such incidents do not happen again.