March 22, 2007	Thursday	Rabi-ul-Awwal 2, 1428

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NEW DELHI, March 21: Gill Woolmer, the wife of deceased Pakistan cricket coach Bob Woolmer, on Wednesday denied any possibility of a conspiracy behind her husband’s death in Kingston, Jamaica on Sunday.

Ms Woolmer, speaking to a private Indian tv channel, confirmed that Woolmer was very depressed after Pakistan lost to Ireland in World Cup but denied any possibility of conspiracy behind his death.

“No, I don't see any conspiracy in his death. I am aware that his death is being viewed as ‘suspicious’. He had nothing to do with match fixing controversy and any such person being involved is highly unlikely. We never got any threats as far as I know.”

Commenting on the job-related pressures faced by the coach, she said: “I spoke to him (Bob) last week. We used to chat almost every day when he called up to get news of the family and everyday issues. He didn't say anything specifically but I could see him on TV.

“I know him well enough to guess he was under pressure. I could read expression on his face. He shared his experiences with me all the time. He was very tired. All that cricket, living out of a suitcase, time difference and travelling was tiring.”

Adding about Woolmer’s reaction on the day Pakistan lost to Ireland, Gill said: “I didn't speak to him after the match but he emailed me the following morning. He did mention that he was really depressed and could not believe how this could have happened. We discussed some personal issues apart from this.”

“His contract with Pakistan was getting over in June 2007 and he was planning to talk to Pakistan chairman. He didn't speak to me regarding any comeback but it was a possibility but he had not made any decision as such.

“Pakistan team's poor performance affected him as any other big tournament that he lost as a coach (like to South Africa). He believed that what happened... happened.....one has to move on.”

Vehemently denying the reports about coach’s excessive use of alcohol, she said: “All those reports about drinking are rubbish. He was taking prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs and that is it. He had Type 2 diabetes and was not prescribed any drugs for it.”

Sounding fairly composed on the occasion, Gill Woolmer added that a doctor in the Kingston hospital called her to tell about Woolmer’s passing away.

On his rapport with the players in the Pakistan side, she said it was very good.

“He had a very good relationship with team. They had a lot of fun together and put in a lot of hand work too. Pakistan administration really looked after him well. All boys are very friendly, nice and I enjoyed their company. I never lived in Pakistan. I only stayed in a hotel when I visited. Bob also didn't stay in house too long. He was constantly travelling.”

When asked why she did not accompany the former England player in Jamaica. “I didn't go to Jamaica because PCB rules do not allow wives and girlfriends to accompany (anyone) till team reaches semi-final stage. Now I don't see any point in going as it is a long flight. Doctors and deputy chief of police and PCB is handling everything very efficiently.”

Commenting on the books Woolmer was working on during the recent months, Gill said. “I have manuscripts with me but I have not read them. I cannot tell you when they will be published but they are in final stages.”—Agencies