Cricket: Aussie PA announcer sacked after using Indian accent

There were reports that the PA announcer used an Indian accent when announcing the name of England bowler Monty Panesar. Photo / AP

Public address announcer David Nixon was sacked on the spot from his match-day duties after Cricket Australia appeared to take exception to his individualistic style in England's tour match at Traeger Park.

Nixon is an Austalian Broadcasting Corporation employee, and undertook the PA job separately in the tourists' fixture against a CA Chairman XI.

His irreverent tone was evident throughout, until he was relieved of his duties after lunch on the second and final day.

There were reports that he used an Indian accent when announcing the name of England bowler Monty Panesar. CA would not comment on the specifics of the dismissal.

A spokesman for the Australian board did nonetheless say on Saturday afternoon: "Cricket Australia deemed the conduct of the PA announcer as inappropriate and as such he will take no further part in the match."

There will be no further comment from CA until a review of events has been completed.

The controversy over Nixon's performance comes against an antagonistic backdrop so far in this winter's Ashes, which has included an outbreak of 'sledging' in England's first-Test defeat at the Gabba last week and a frosty, partisan reception for the tourists from media and home crowds alike.

Ian Bell, leading England in Alice Springs in the absence of the rested Alastair Cook, appeared mystified by the turn of events.

The England and Wales Cricket Board made no complaint about Nixon, and was unaware of his sacking until told by the hosts.

At his post-match press conference, Bell said: "We weren't aware of it, didn't know anything about it.

"Until now ... I don't think any of the team were. We were focused on the cricket.

"You could hear him through the game, but hadn't heard he'd been sacked."