Cricket: Wellington team escape censure, but skipper suspended

Wellington captain Richard Jones was suspended for five playing days, but a charge against the entire team for breaching the code of conduct was dismissed yesterday.

Otago coach Glenn Turner cited the team for unacceptable behaviour on the second day of their State Championship match at the Basin Reserve this week.

But code of conduct commissioner Ross Crotty dismissed the charge on the basis that he had no jurisdiction to suspend a team.

Turner's report related to Wellington's refusal to accept a decision after an appeal for a catch against Otago batsman Chris Gaffaney was rejected by umpire Mike George, and congregating around the end occupied by Gaffaney.

Turner said there was an unacceptable period during which "the gang of players" insisted on the umpire at square leg (Evan Watkin) making the decision.

Watkin, the senior umpire, advised George that he believed Gaffaney was out, and the batsman departed.

Crotty said he was limited because the code dealt with individual breaches.

There was no penalty that might apply to a team such as loss of championship points.

Crotty said he also lacked jurisdiction to comment on the players' behaviour.

Turner accepted the commissioner's finding, but was disappointed that the commissioner could not comment on the players' behaviour. Turner felt that his concerns were heard and recorded.

He was prepared to let the matter rest, confident that Wellington officials would seriously consider the issues raised.

Jones, captain in the absence of the suspended Matthew Bell, was stood down for swearing and insulting Watkin when he declined an appeal.

He will miss Wellington's championship match next week against Canterbury at the Basin Reserve, and the one-day game for his club, Stokes Valley, against Hutt District on March 2.

Wellington coach Vaughn Johnson was also cited by Turner for making media comment which brought the game into disrepute.

Turner withdrew that complaint when Johnson apologised.

- NZPA