from local cricket.

The talented batsman, who represented Somerset in Cup Match last year, was scheduled to appear before the Bermuda Cricket Board of Control's disciplinary committee to answer charges that he brought the game into disrepute as a result of a dispute with umpire Jeff Pitcher.

The incident occurred during the Premier Division limited overs match at St.

John's field against Western Stars on June 28 when Basden is alleged to have refused to leave the crease after being given out stumped.

It is also alleged that he used abusive language to the umpire and also fired a salvo of abuse at Board officials.

Pitcher, who officiated the game with Mansfield Smith, detailed the seriousness of this incident in his report to the Board. "... Basden showed dissent by not leaving the crease when he was given out after being stumped by wicketkeeper Anthony Manders. He told me that he had his foot on the line, `You f****** umpire couldn't see it.' "I walked toward him as I was the square leg umpire and told him that I was going to report him for his behaviour. He continued to f*** me off and said `F*** that president El James, too.' He then left the field without any further incident.'' The hearing takes on added significance because it is the first serious one held since the new administration took over just over a year ago. It comes at a time when the Bermuda Cricket Umpires Association are attempting to persuade the Board to move faster in settling disciplinary matters.

BCUA secretary Randall Butler said yesterday that his group were confident that the Board would see the seriousness of incident and deal with it swiftly and appropriately.

"Our members have been on the receiving end of this sort of abuse for too long and it must stop. It's unnecessary and unwarranted and the time has come for action to be taken,'' he said.

"If a firm disciplinary stance is not taken then our members will be turned off and probably lose interest in officiating if proper action is not taken.'' Board officials yesterday refused to comment.

RICHARD BASDEN