Accusing Watson spells more trouble for Ajmal

Abu Dhabi, April 28: Pakistani off-spinner Saeed Ajmal, who has been reported for a suspect bowling action, may find himself in more trouble after accusing Australian all-rounder Shane Watson of complaining to the umpires about his action.

Pakistan team manager Yawar Saeed said Ajmal had violated the team`s code of conduct by speaking to the media without seeking permission from the management.

"He spoke on a sensitive issue without seeking permission from the team management and that is a serious violation of the players code of conduct. We are looking into the case and he may face disciplinary action," Yawar said.

Interestingly, Ajmal gave a statement soon after the International Cricket Council announced that the match officials had reported his action after the second one-day international against Australia in Dubai.

The Pakistan tour selection committee played Ajmal in the third one-dayer in Abu Dhabi yesterday but Yawar said the case of his violating the code of conduct was being handled separately.

Pakistan`s coach Intikhab Alam could also face some action from the ICC as sources said the ICC officials were not happy with Alam going public with his views on Ajmal`s report and questioning the bowling action review process.

Alam also criticised the umpires for reporting Ajmal, pointing out that the youngster had been playing international cricket for a while now without any objection being raised over his "doosra" delivery.

The sources said the ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat had the authority to take cognizance of Alam`s statement even if the match officials didn`t report the Pakistan team official.

"It has happened before that the match officials have not reported a player or official but the ICC chief executive has used his authority to initiate an inquiry for possible action against the person who has broken the spirit of the game," one source said.

Former Test players Geoffery Boycott an Rameez Raja have also advised the ICC to legalise the "doosra" delivery to put an end to off-spinners being reported for bowling this delivery.