Mark Butcher has branded Ruchira Perera, Sri Lanka's controversial fast bowler, a chucker, and now faces disciplinary action from the ECB. His comments, made on the eve of the second Test at Edgbaston, come only days after Australia's vice-captain, Adam Gilchrist, was censored for similar remarks about Muttiah Muralitharan's action. Butcher made the comments in his weekly column for the Surrey Advertiser: "Having faced Perera for some time, I can say that he definitely straightens his arm," he was quoted as saying. "It's not so bad when the ball is pitched up but when he bowls short he just runs up and throws it at you. I can't believe someone gets away with it."

The ECB have yet to decide on Butcher's fate. "We are aware of the article," said a spokesman. "We are discussing it with Mark and it would be inappropriate to say anything further at the moment."

John Read, the director of corporate affairs, added: "I don't want to make any off-the-cuff remark about what he actually has said."

Perera, who took 3 for 48 in England's first innings at Lord's, was reported to the ICC for a suspect action after doubts were raised by the umpires. He remains available for selection at Edgbaston, but may make way for the return of Muralitharan.

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