On the back of the ball tampering saga involving Australian players, the ICC has commissioned a wide-ranging review into player behaviour, the spirit in which the game is played and the Code of Conduct. The review, which will be led by the ICC Chief Executive David Richardson, will consult widely with the sport in contemporising the standards expected of player behaviour and developing a culture of respect.
It will focus on two things: firstly, the ICC Code of Conduct, reviewing the levels of offence based on seriousness, more clearly defining the conduct that will constitute each offence and reviewing the sanctions that should apply to the various offences.
Secondly, the establishment of a 'spirit of cricket code' based on a culture of respect. This will define more clearly what it actually means to play the modern game and will draw opinions from respected former players, match officials, the MCC and current players.
“The outcomes of this group, which will be convened as soon as is practically possible, will go through the ICC Cricket Committee and to the ICC Board for discussion and adoption,” Richardson said.