Code of behaviour reformed

One of Cricket Australia's main priorities this season is to improve the spirit in which the game is played. In line with this commitment, changes have been made to Cricket Australia's Code of Behaviour, which determines guidelines for on-field conduct and penalties for infringements.

Under the revised Code, fixed sanctions are clearly laid out for specific match-related offences. These include verbal abuse, dissent at an umpire's decision, and actions or comments detrimental to the game. Commissioners ruling on offences will implement a set level of penalties, depending on the nature and severity of the offence.

Cricket Australia's General Manager of Cricket Operations, Michael Brown, said the reforms simplify the code, and bring it into line with the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Code of Conduct.

"The Code now offers more uniformity for players so that they understand what they can and can't do across the board, whether they are playing international or domestic level cricket," said Mr Brown.

"The changes give greater consistency in the application of the Code, leaving less room for individual interpretation.

"And from an officiating perspective, offences are spelled out quite clearly for the umpires so that if they see a breach of behaviour, they can now find a specific clause which identifies the offence they've just witnessed and can act accordingly."

The Code of Behaviour covers domestic games, with Test matches and one-day internationals falling under the ICC's jurisdiction. Umpires have been briefed on the changes, as well as Code Commissioners, who conduct hearings into breaches of the Code and deliver penalties where appropriate.

"We hope that the clear guidelines provided by the new Code enhance the mutual respect between umpires and players," Mr Brown added.

"We have stressed to umpires that it is their role to keep communicating and let the players know where the boundaries of acceptable behaviour are."