MacLaurin backs Australia's tough stance in Waugh case

Australia's tough line in the Mark Waugh case has been backed by England's cricket chief, Lord MacLaurin.

The Australian Cricket Board has set a 24-hour deadline for Waugh to declare his intentions to speak to the International Cricket Council's anti-corruption unit, led by Sir Paul Condon.

MacLaurin, chairman of the ECB, said: "I have no doubt at all that the Australian board will take as strong a position as I would on it. When lawyers get involved they will always advise their clients to step back initially, but I will be surprised if Mark does not speak to Sir Paul and the powers-that-be in Australia."

MacLaurin went on to back the selection of Sir Paul as head of the anti-corruption unit. "The appointment of Sir Paul... was an inspired choice. We couldn't have anybody better.

"He's widely respected right the way round the world. All the Test-playing nations endorsed his appointment and I think there is a determination in every board.

"Sir Paul has said this is not the Derby; this is a long-running situation and it will take a while to clear up."

It is alleged that Waugh received money in return for team and weather information in 1993.