Aussie umpires seek unionisation to unite in Hair-like controversy

Sydney, Sep 30 (UNI) The need to present a united front in a situation like the Darrell Hair controversy has led to Aussie umpires seeking admission to players' union which if accepted would make them the first to unionise in the international cricket arena.

The main thrust behind the unprecendented move of the umpires to join Australian Cricketers Association (ACA) is to improve the support mechanisms for officials at international and state level in the wake of the Oval fiasco which involved compatriot Hair, Sydney Morning Herald reported today.

Hair, an Australian but now residing in England, has been stood down from the Champions Trophy by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after the Indian Cricket Board expressed unwillingness to have him in the 'mini world cup' becuase of possible crowd provocation by his presence in the wake of the ball-tampering row.

By dismissing ball-tampering charges against Pakistan in the Inzamam disciplinary hearing and standing Hair down from the Champions Trophy, the ICC has put the Aussie umpire's career in jeopardy.

ACA said it will consider the umpires' request at a board meeting on Monday and if accepted Australia's officials would be the first in international cricket to unionise.

''We can confirm that an approach has been made. We are very sympathetic to the umpires' cause and will see if there is something we can do,'' ACA spokesperson Tarryn Paten was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

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