International umpires are to play a more active and direct role in player discipline, following the introduction of a new Players Code of Conduct by the ICC last week.

One of the most significant changes under the new process is that umpires will take greater responsibility for laying charges against players who breach the Code. Under the previous system match referees were also authorised to lay charges, but that power has now been removed. In disciplinary terms, referees will instead concentrate on hearing and adjudicating cases.

"It was not best practice for referees to act as policeman, judge and jury in dealing with breaches of the Code. By moving the emphasis from referee to umpires we now have a process that is more in line with best legal practice. All members of the Elite Panels of umpires and referees have received legal training that will equip them to follow the new system accurately and consistently," confirmed Malcolm Speed, ICC's Chief Executive Officer.

As Chief Executive of the world governing body Speed will also have the power to lay charges, as will the senior executive of the Board hosting the series and the managers of the competing teams.

The new Players Code of Conduct has been circulated to all international Boards and is being briefed to captains, managers and their teams by referees prior to the start of new series.

Media contacts:

Mark Harrison
ICC Communications Manager
Tel: + 44 (0) 207 266 7913
Mob: + 44 (0) 787 944 1891
Email: mark.harrison@icc-cricket.com

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