McGrath sympathises with Bucknor

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Bucknor made a number of questionable decisions during Australia's dramatic victory in the second Test at the SCG and the ICC responded by dumping him in favour of New Zealander Billy Bowden for next week's clash in Perth.

However, McGrath does not agree with the decision to replace the 61-year-old, saying: "What is there, eight international umpires on the panel? And if a couple of teams aren't happy with umpires then all of a sudden you have got one to choose from? I think that it's ridiculous. That's why we have the ICC, to control things rather than individual countries."

He added: "I think it is sad and disappointing that it gets to the stage where you have a bad game and they're calling for your head. I have a lot of respect for the umpires and I think Steve's very good and I've got a lot of time for him."

McGrath called on the Indians to forget the off-field politics and start focusing on cricket again after announcing that they would continue their tour.

"It's unbelievable where it's got to. People have got to concentrate on actually playing the game," he said.

"If you're unhappy with a few decisions, which have been there since the first ball was bowled in Test cricket... that's part of cricket.

"You have to be able to handle that that and move on. Let's worry about playing in the middle, performing well, and if you lose so be it.

"Move to the next game and improve on the areas you need to work on."