'Understanding' referee Srinath clears Akmal of ICC Code of Conduct breach

Lahore, Oct. 5 (ANI): ICC Champions Trophy match referee Javagal Srinath has cleared Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal of an ICC Code of Conduct breach during his team's semi-final match against New Zealand at The Wanderers.

"In a hearing convened by match referee Javagal Srinath on Sunday morning, the middle-order batsman pleaded not guilty to contravening Level 1.3 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials which relates to 'showing dissent at an umpire's decision'," the Daily Times quoted an ICC spokesman as saying.

Third umpire Daryl Harper, fourth umpire Steve Davis and on-field umpires Simon Taufel and Ian Gould Umar had alleged that Akmal breached the Code when he was given lbw out in the 41st over of the match.

However, Srinath said that as a former player he could understand Akmal's disappointment.

"Umar's reaction at being dismissed at such a crucial phase of the innings in the all-important match of a global tournament was more of a disappointment than anything else. Having been in these situations in the past, I understand how a player reacts or can express himself but I don't think there was anything other than disappointment in this incident," Srinath said.

All Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand and a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player's match fee.

For Level 1 breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct the ICC match referee's decision is final and binding. (ANI)