This story is from August 21, 2006

Pak in tamper tantrum, umpires strike back

Agencies / Aug 21, 2006, 07:12 IST

Share

AA

Text Size

Small
Medium
Large

The fourth test between England and Pakistan descended into farce as first Pakistan, then the umpires, failed to take the field following a ball-tampering storm.

Pak in tamper tantrum, umpires strike back

LONDON: The fourth Test between England and Pakistan descended into farce on Sunday as first Pakistan, then the umpires, failed to take the field after tea on the fourth day following a ball-tampering storm.
After Pakistan wouldn’t take the field, umpire Darrell Hair removed the bails from both sets of stumps in a gesture that clearly seemed designed to represent a forfeiture of the match by Pakistan.The visitors then took the field, but the umpires decided that the game could no longer continue, leading to an incredible stand-off.
As the stalemate ensued and the light over the Oval deteriorated, fourth umpire T E Jesty announced the close of day’s play. Finally, the ECB said play had been abandoned "for the day", but talks would go on to determine whether further play would take place on Monday.
"It is a no-win situation as Hair has refused to umpire," said Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer. Match referee Mike Procter said talks would continue. "Following issues raised by the umpires, which need to be resolved, meetings will be held between the match referee and both teams to determine whether further play will be scheduled in this match."
PCB chairman Shaharyar Khan said Pakistan had stayed in their dressing room as a protest but later reappeared wanting to continue the Test, which they are in a position to win. "We have indicated that we can go and play.
We want the Test to continue. I understand the umpires are not ready to play right now," Khan told a TV channel. Khan said Pakistan’s players categorically denied they had tampered with the ball.

End of Article

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA