Ranatunga launches scathing attack on Chris Broad

Arjuna Ranatunga has reacted angrily to Chris Broad's decision to report Muttiah Muralitharan for having a suspect bowling action when he bowls his doosra, suggesting that the decision may have been racially motivated.

Ranatunga, who fiercely defended Muralitharan during controversial tours of Australia in 1995-96 and 1998-99, told The Island newspaper: "I can't understand why Murali is having problems only when he plays against Australia. He had problems in Australia just before two World Cup tournaments and now, just as he is nearing a crucial milestone, here they go again.

"Murali phoned me last night [Sunday] and sounded pretty down. The point I am trying to make is that he bowled the doosra even while I was playing. Today he has mastered that delivery and it is total nonsense to suggest that there are any problems with it."

Ranatunga believes that Broad was not only out of order in acting unilaterally at such a crucial juncture in Muralitharan's career, but also out of his depth: "The ICC should appoint those who are experienced and have an impeccable record in such positions. What experience does he have? Look at his background. His actions are a huge let down to the ICC's reputation. This is all to totally discredit the achievement of a great player. Murali is chasing the world record with Shane Warne, and the Australians and English do not want one of our players getting there [first]."