Sri Lanka Chief Executive On Muralitharan & Dharmasena (8 Feb 1997)

8 February 1997

Cricket Board Chief Executive writes...

With reference to the news item titled `Muralitharan, Dharmasena under scrutiny in NZ` appearing in these columns on February 3, the Sri Lanka Cricket Board`s chief executive Dammika Ranatunga writes:

"The ICC at no stage have cautioned the BCCSL that Muralitharan`s and Dharmasena`s action will come under close scrutiny during the New Zealand tour. In fact, during the tenure of the undersigned in office there has been no communication whatsoever from the ICC on the subject of Muralitharan and Dharmasena having suspect actions.

"In any event the BCCSL wished to notify to the public the present procedure that has to be adopted to review players with suspect actions. This was adopted at a Full Members meeting of the ICC held at Lord`s on July 15, 1996 after Muralitharan`s case was discussed by the undersigned at the meeting.

"The ICC would have a nine-men independent panel to review players with suspect action. If an Umpire or Match Referee felt that a bowler had a suspect action, they could take video evidence which then would be sent to the panel, and the home Board. The Board could then seek technical advise, if necessary. A player would not be stood down from cricket by the ICC whilst the review procedure was in process``.

Source :: Daily News (https://www.lanka.net)