Language plea

CRICKET:

OFFICIALS of the Saddleworth league are asking players to speak English during play - in an attempt to help umpires control matches.

The league has taken steps following an incident in the Glodwick-Austerlands game at Warren Lane last weekend.

A bat was allegedly thrown in anger following the dismissal of a home player, and that there were harsh words in the run-up to the incident.

Although the league is not trying to prevent team-mates from speaking to each other in their native tongue, they want support to stamp out flashpoints for opposing teams. The league follows a Yorkshire Cricket Board recommendation on the use of language.

An league email to member clubs reported a “serious incident” allegedly started by a comment between two players in a foreign language the umpires didn’t understand.

The email included a notice asking players to speak in English and stating that umpires will insist on a player not using his native tongue if he seems to be doing so to intimidate another player. Not obeying such an instruction will result in a disciplinary report and action.

Friarmere captain Abid Hussain gave his backing to the league’s move - though said it’s not easy for some overseas players to use English.

It is sometimes difficult for professionals and overseas amateurs to understand English. They find it easier to speak Urdu, Afrikaans or Punjabi.”

The Glodwick club confirmed the player at the centre of the alleged incident will not be selected for this Saturday’s game nor the Twenty20 Cup first-round tie on Sunday. Umpires have reported the incident to the league.

Also last weekend, a Heyside player was reported following the match at Stayley. One of the umpires involved has said he won’t officiate for the remainder of the season.



CLUB delegates will tonight vote on Whalley Range’s application to join the Saddleworth and District Cricket League.

Executive committee members have recommended acceptance from 2014, leaving the final decision to the league’s 14 clubs.