Malcolm Speed, the new Chief Executive Officer of the ICC, has taken a lead in addressing the issue of standards of player behaviour in the international game.

Speed, who took up his new position in London on 9th July, has written personally to each of the ten Test match cricket captains, asking for their support in upholding standards of conduct on the field of play.

In his letter he writes: "There have, however, been a number of incidents in matches over the past 12 months that have fallen below an acceptable standard...it is time to ensure that all of us charged with protecting the reputation of our great game meet the high standards expected.

I appreciate that the international game is fiercely competitive and played for increasingly high stakes, but ask that you take all steps available to ensure that your team honours the Spirit of the Game. It is a very important duty that is entrusted to you and one which places a great responsibility on all international captains."

The new CEO is also seeking to establish a closer and more regular dialogue with the captains, and as part of this has asked to be contacted when there are matters that require his personal attention.

Umpires and referees on the ICC panel of match officials have also been contacted by letter, urging them to take a tougher line in disciplining players who transgress the international game's Code of Conduct.

In the letter to match referees Mr Speed suggests that serious cases of indiscipline are punished with suspensions, rather than lesser penalties: "as a matter of general principle, I would suggest that in serious cases, suspensions are imposed rather than suspended sentences, reprimands or fines. I can assure you that you will have my full support in dealing with matters of this kind."

Referees have also been asked to encourage umpires, where appropriate, to lay formal charges under the Code of Conduct.

Commenting on the situation Malcolm Speed said: "I regard improving the standard of on field behaviour and conduct as one of my most important priorities. I have no wish to dwell on past incidents and accuse no team or individual above another, but action does need to be taken. I am confident that the will exists among players, captains and officials to achieve a rapid improvement, and this will help improve the perception and reputation of the game among its millions of followers worldwide."

Other priorities that will be addressed with urgency include the ongoing fight against corruption, player safety, the new system of ICC panel umpires and referees and the restructuring of ICC staffing and administration.

Media contacts:
Mark Harrison
ICC Communications Manager
Tel: + 44 20 7266 7913/1818
Email: mark.harrison@icc.cricket.org

Jonathan Hemus
Countrywide Porter Novelli
Tel: + 44 1295 224478
Email: jonathan.hemus@cpn.co.uk

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