The International Cricket Council (ICC) should modify its policy for slow over rates, Cricket West Indies president Dave Cameron said on Tuesday.
Speaking after the suspension of captain Jason Holder from the third Test against England starting on Saturday in St Lucia, Cameron questioned whether the player’s absence was good for cricket.
The Windies won the second Test by 10 wickets in less than three days, for an unassailable 2-0 series lead, but world No.1-ranked allrounder Holder’s subsequent suspension dampened the celebrations.
“We will, of course, abide by the ICC ruling, but we have to wonder if such punitive action at a pivotal stage of the series is good for cricket,” Cameron said in a statement.
“What a shame if the series is remembered not for the sparkling play of the reinvigorated West Indies players but for a crippling decision made by a rule that ought to be modified.”
Cameron did not specify exactly what modification he favoured, and he was not arguing the letter of the law.
Holder was suspended because he was deemed responsible for the West Indies being two overs short of their required minimum target for the match.
It is the second time Holder has been suspended.
Critics argue that forcing the team’s captain to sit out is exactly what Test cricket does not need in its struggle to stay relevant in the Caribbean.
The first two Tests in Barbados and Antigua were both well attended, but most of the crowd were supporting England – not the home team.
“The game really doesn’t help itself,” tweeted former England batsman Michael Vaughan.
Retired Australian legspinner Shane Waugh also weighed in.
“The test didn’t go three days. What a ridiculous decision. Where’s the common sense here?” he tweeted.
The minimum required over rate in Tests is 15 per hour, although the number can be modified by the match referee to account for extenuating circumstances.
Opening batsman Kraigg Brathwaite will captain the West Indies in Holder’s absence.
© AAP
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