In the Best Interest of the Game

The 2006 Test Match between England and Pakistan at the Oval is the focal point. Hair's observations and charges of ball tampering against Pakistan led to the visitors refusing to continue the game. What followed more befits a John Le Carre novel, as administrators went into almost unfathomable damage control that eventually forced Hair into a premature retirement. Unlike recollections of runs, wickets and anecdotes, this is a unique story that has the potential to leave an impact long after the current generation of umpires and players call 'time'. It's a story that some of cricket's most powerful decision makers and players may feel uncomfortable about.