Cricket star faces probe over conduct

Daryl Tuffey. File picture

A videotape, a couple of British tourists and a milkshake are three unlikely ingredients believed to be involved in a misconduct charge levelled at New Zealand cricketer Daryl Tuffey.

New Zealand Cricket announced yesterday it became aware of the alleged misconduct on Friday and notified Tuffey - who is on a $100,000 retainer - it would conduct an investigation, starting in Christchurch today.

Tuffey will be represented by the executive manager of the Cricket Players' Association, Heath Mills, and legal counsel Andrew Scott-Howman. The inquiry is to be conducted by Hugh Rennie, QC.

Employment contracts for New Zealand players state they must comply with a code of conduct on and off the field, and that they do not act in a manner likely to bring the team or the game into disrepute. Penalties for breaching the code range from mediation to termination of contract.

NZ Cricket has refused to comment until the hearing has ended, but the Herald understands the alleged off-field antics followed New Zealand's one-day match against a World XI at Christchurch in January.

The allegations are not believed to involve fighting, and although alcohol might have been a factor, it is not thought to be NZ Cricket's main concern.

Tuffey, who has played 22 tests and 76 one-day internationals, was dropped from the side during last month's one-day series against Australia after disintegrating in his opening over at Auckland.

He also missed selection for the first test starting here tomorrow and was told by coach John Bracewell to return to domestic cricket to try to regain form and confidence.

The announcement followed rumours that news media were close to publishing the revelations last weekend and were gearing up for a more detailed expose.