BBC SPORT | ENGLAND ON TOUR | Fletcher warns of responsibilities

England coach Duncan Fletcher is hoping for an incident free third and final Test against Sri Lanka starting on Thursday, after controversy dogged the first two Tests of the series.

A number of dubious umpiring decisions and a finger-wagging confrontation between Mike Atherton and Sri Lankan wicketkeeper Kumar Sangakkara marred the second Test in Kandy.

"People know their responsibilities as they have played in many Tests and it is up to the individuals to know what their responsibilities are," Fletcher said.

But with the series being decided in the searing heat of Colombo, it is possible the tension between the two sides will rise to the surface once again.

England captain Nasser Hussain
Nasser Hussain on his way to a second Test century

Fletcher also had sympathy for the umpires, whose decisions fell under the media spotlight in Galle and Kandy.

"I have stressed on numerous occasions that it is very difficult for them.

"There is even more pressure on them with snickometers and the grids which show where the ball has pitched.

Doggedly

"People must come up with some kind of formula which will help them and make their job easier," he said sympathetically.

Fletcher - and the cricket authorities - will be hoping the positive attitude in the England camp will help to ease any friction.

It is not easy to chase 160 on the last day of the Test with bowlers of Mularitharan's class

Duncan Fletcher

The tourists batted doggedly on the final day of the second Test to reach their required target and the mood amongst the players is buoyant.

"The side has shown character no matter what is thrown at them on or off the field.

"The second Test was another one where there was a lot of incident involved, but it was great for the players to come back and win another game.

"It is not easy to chase 160 on the last day of the Test with bowlers of Mularitharan's class - it shows the character of the side," said a confident Fletcher.


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