ACB reinforces player behaviour policy

The Australian Cricket Board (ACB) today reinforced the importance of the requirements set out in the International Cricket Council's (ICC) Code of Conduct.

ACB Chief Executive Officer James Sutherland said the requirements are not only a contractual obligation for ACB contracted players and officials, but they are also an important part of the spirit of cricket, which is an intrinsic part of the game's unique appeal.

"Cricket's distinct place in Australian society brings with it a necessity for players and officials to exhibit high standards of personal behaviour on and off the field," Mr Sutherland said.

"Any action or behaviour that contradicts this should be taken seriously."

Mr Sutherland made the comment after receiving a report from Australian team management on an incident involving batsman Darren Lehmann during last night's VB Series one-day international game between Australia and Sri Lanka in Brisbane.

The report, delivered to the ACB's head office in Melbourne, confirmed that offensive off-field comment had been made by Lehmann, who subsequently apologised in person and in writing to the Sri Lankan team before being severely reprimanded by ICC Match Referee Clive Lloyd.

International match referees have the power to impose penalties ranging from reprimands through to financial penalties and match suspensions.

Mr Sutherland said that to reinforce the importance of players and officials complying with the code of conduct, the ACB has arranged for Darren to undergo counselling on this matter.

"I have expressed to Darren the ACB's disappointment in the incident and organised immediate counselling for him," he said.

"It is clear that he has acted in an undesirable manner and steps will be taken to see that behaviour such as this is not repeated."

The ACB provides contracted players and officials with annual training on policies relating to behaviour, anti-doping, racial and religious vilification.