Sri Lanka requests ICC to establish clear set of rules on ball tampering

Sports Minister Faiszer Mustapha yesterday called on the International Cricket Council (ICC) to establish a set of “simple, clear and certain rules and procedures” on ball tampering, since the rules are “somewhat vague and lack clarity.”

“As the Minister of Sport and as a lover of the game, I wish to point out that the laws governing the offence/act of altering the condition of the ball is somewhat vague and lacks clarity,” the Minister said in a statement.

He requested the ICC to revisit the applicable laws and ensure that a set of simple, clear and certain rules and procedures are put in place with regard to the act/offence of altering the condition of the ball.

Expressing his view on the punishment given to Sri Lanka Captain Dinesh Chandimal, Coach Chandika Hathurusingha and Team Manager Asanka Gurusinha by the ICC for “conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game”, the Minister said the ICC decision is a blow to the spirit of the game.

Accepting the ICC decision, the Minister said he was dismayed by the news that Sri Lanka’s efforts to clear the trio have been unsuccessful, and that the Judicial Commissioner appointed by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to inquire into the allegations against them of violation of the ICC Code of Conduct has ruled against them. “Sri Lanka, being a responsible member of the ICC, is obliged to accept the decision of the Hon. Judicial Commissioner, and we do so without any reservation.”

The Minister, reiterating his support to the cricket team, requested the public to support them as well.

“Moreover, I wish to reiterate my support for our cricketing heroes and I appeal to the cricket-loving public to extend their wholehearted support to our National cricket team,” he said.