ICC refutes ball tampering allegations

HOBART, AUSTRALIA – DECEMBER 18: Umpires Tony Hill (L) and Nigel Llong (R) look on after the DRS over turned Llong’s LBW decison against Kumar Sangakkara of Sri Lanka during day five of the First Test match between Australia and Sri Lanka at Blundstone Arena on December 18, 2012 in Hobart, Australia.

Chris Broad of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees has issued the following statement after the media reported incidents of ball tampering during the first cricket Test between Australia and Sri Lanka which concluded in Hobart on Tuesday.

“The umpires frequently inspect the ball during play, and did so again after they had reviewed the video footage in question on Sunday. They found no evidence to suggest that the condition of the ball had been changed.

“During the tea interval on that day, I spoke with Australia coach Mickey Arthur and told him that the umpires will continue to inspect the cricket ball regularly, and monitor the actions of all players.

“I subsequently informed the Sri Lanka team management of my discussions with the Australia coach.

“In the opinion of the umpires, there was no evidence to suggest that the condition of the ball was changed, or that the video or photographic evidence would support a charge under the Code of Conduct, so they will not be laying any charges relating to these incidents.”