The Australian Cricket Board has denied media reports that their cricketers were unhappy with security arrangements on the recent tour of India, and that they would not tour the country again unless these measures drastically improved. Reacting to a report which appeared in Thursday's Daily Mail, ACB chief executive officer James Sutherland said: "The suggestion we have discussed or even contemplated not touring India again is untrue. The decision on whether we undertake tours is one that is made by ACB's board of directors."

He added: "Ahead of every tour the Australian side undertakes, we discuss many issues surrounding that tour with the relevant home board and we will no doubt do that with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ahead of our next scheduled trip to India in 2004. But it is simply incorrect to state we are contemplating not touring there."

The Australian tour of India earlier this year was marked by heavy security outside the players' hotel rooms, and police cars accompanied their drives to the grounds. However, according to reports in British newspapers, the players were still worried. Quoting an Australian source, The Daily Express said: "Although the people were very friendly, whatever assurances were given could not always be guaranteed because it was often run by local authorities."

James Sutherland scoffed at these reports, and hailed the tour which saw brilliant cricket from both teams. "I know the touring party received outstanding kindness and hospitality during the trip. The public who turned up to see the players and watch them in action were generous in their support, and their passion and love of the game gave the squad memories that will last a lifetime."

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