New twist in Tuffey scandal

Daryl Tuffey, whose poor form ruled him out of Test contention, went before a New Zealand Cricket inquiry in Christchurch today, to answer charges of misconduct. Although NZC were remaining tightlipped on the matter, a Christchurch-based newspaper, The Press has alleged that he was filmed by two British backpackers while having consensual sex with a New Zealand woman.

Two 19-year British boys, described as "immature" in the same newspaper, reportedly befriended Tuffey during their time as overseas players for the local Riccarton cricket club, and having filmed him and an unnamed woman, toured the bars of Christchurch to boast of their actions.

The inquiry was led by Hugh Rennie QC, while Tuffey was represented by Heath Mills, the Cricket Players' Association executive manager, and Andrew Scott-Howman, his legal counsel. A NZC spokesman said the board would not comment further until the inquiry was completed.

Tuffey's on-field form has been awful and he was dropped after the third one-day match against Australia for bowling a 14-ball opening over. He was omitted from the Test squad when the selectors pushed for a front-line attack of Chris Martin, Ian O'Brien and James Franklin.