Shaharyar denies making Inzy a dictator, blames Hair for Oval fias

Lahore, May 29 (UNI) Condemning the PEC's claim that he made Inzamam-ul-Haq a 'dictator', former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Shaharyar Khan has held umpire Darrell Hair responsible for the Oval test fiasco.

''The PEC, in its proceedings, has discussed my tenure and criticised me, but its claim that I made Inzamam a 'dictator' is absolutely wrong,'' Shaharyar told Dawn.

The PEC headed by former Test cricketer Ijaz Butt along with Saleem Altaf and Salahuddin Ahmed, stated in its report that it was Shaharyar's unnecessary support to Inzamam during the Oval Test fiasco last year that made him a 'dictator', which was in a way responsible for Pakistan's shameful exit from the mega event.

But Shaharyar felt that Inzamam was victimised, as it was Australian umpire Darrell Hair's ''rude attitude'' which was responsible for the whole fiasco.

''I believe Darrell Hair is mainly to blame for the debacle,'' he said, adding, ''When Inzamam had realised the mistake he was prepared to play but then Hair became the only hurdle.'' ''Inzamam was in shock after hearing the allegation of ball tampering levelled by Hair but I and Woolmer had convinced him to resume play. But then Hair came to Pakistan's dressing room and in harsh tone threatened Inzamam about a penalty if he doesn't go out,'' Shaharyar explained.

He further claimed it was Hair who refused to accept the unanimous decision to resume the game in a meeting which featured captains and coaches of both the teams, apart from chairman of both the boards and the four umpires.

He also revealed that the adamant Aussie umpire had refused to accept ICC CEO Malcolm Speed's advice to resume the match.

''Speed attempted twice to convince Hair but all in vain due to the umpire's rude attitude.'' he said.

UNI