APPEALS

Appeals have tended to get out of hand in the last few years and the governing bodies are making determined efforts to get them toned down.

We don't want players rushing towards the umpire in order to try and claim a decision, so they are trying to calm that.

It did get to an unacceptable state, though I think the worst period was probably about 10-15 years ago.

When we are talking about Test matches, its important to remember that there aren't just two umpires on the field and one looking at the TV replays.

We also have a referee sitting watching every ball and if he sees anything untoward happening in the field he can take action.

Players can be fined for misbehaviour or be banned from matches.

I think this will come into the game more and more - players who misbehave on the field must be banned for a certain time.

I hope things don't get any worse than they have done, but I don't think I've ever been intimidated by excessive appealing.

I have been around a long time and I try to deal with people as best I can on the field.

A straight "no" is usually enough if I don't agree with the appeal.