Cricket
Ref Broad lays into Aamer
2010-07-14 14:25
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London - Pakistan's teenage fast bowler Mohammad Aamer has been spoken to about his conduct by International Cricket Council match referee Chris Broad following a physical brush with Australia captain Ricky Ponting on Tuesday.
Aamer, who took 4-72, dismissed Ponting in the 17th over on day one of the first Test at Lord's. Before the Australian had time to walk off, the 18-year-old Aamer clashed elbows with Ponting, who complained angrily to umpire Ian Gould on his way off the field. Who initiated the clash was unclear.
Broad did not take official action but, in the company of coach Waqar Younis, has offered advice as to his future behavior.
The incident came after Aamer ran into Australia batsman Michael Clarke in a Twenty20 match between the two teams last week - he immediately apologised on that occasion.
"Aamer is a young, exciting, talented player full of enthusiasm for this great sport and that is to be celebrated and nurtured," Broad said in an ICC statement on Wednesday. "But there are a few things he still has to learn in relation to how to conduct himself on the field of play.
"I told him that when he takes a wicket, he should celebrate with his team-mates rather than getting himself into the personal space of the outgoing batsman. It's a spirit of cricket issue. It has happened twice now so we as a playing control team thought it would be sensible for me to have a word with him."
Broad said Aamer accepted the advice and undertook to avoid a repeat occurrence.
"As far as we are concerned the issue is now closed," Broad said.
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), which is hosting this Test as a neutral venue, is also sponsoring the series under its flagship 'Spirit of Cricket' campaign in which they promote a logo 'Play Hard, Play Fair'.