Imran tells ICC to stop over-policing

Imran Khan has reacted sharply to Malcolm Speed's criticism of Wasim Bari, who questioned David Shepherd's standing in international cricket following a poor performance in the Holland Cup final between Pakistan and Australia. Pakistan were on the receiving end of a few disputed decisions, which, a number of Pakistanis believed, played a large role in the team's 17-run loss to Australia.

Khan differed with Speed's decision to include selectors in the ICC's code of conduct, saying that it had no business restricting selectors. "The ICC should concentrate on disciplining the players, coaches and managers who are directly involved," AFP quoted Imran as saying. "Even the heads of the boards can be checked, but restricting officials like selectors is over-policing.

"Barring officials from criticizing does not make any sense. How will then the game improve? I think the ICC's plan to include selectors in its code of conduct is over the top."

He turned his attention to the Pakistan board, which, he felt, should have protested Speed's attack. "Pakistan Cricket Board should have protested but I am told they have not which is surprising."

Speed had come down heavily on Bari for his outburst. In a strongly-worded letter, Speed told Bari his reaction was inflammatory and not in line with the ICC's thinking. He added: "I will ask the ICC board to include selectors as a specific category of officials so that you and other selectors can be in no doubt about where you stand."

Khan said that he was against bubble-wrapping umpires, and suggested that they be more open to criticism for decisions at the highest level. "An elite umpire is in the limelight, more than before because they are paid more and should be open to criticism if they make fundamental mistakes which alter the course of the match like what happened in Holland. Why are the umpires to be made sacred cows?

"A player can't appeal, show enthusiasm and celebrate before an umpire gives a decision," he continued. "It is not understandable as it snatches the game of all the charms."