Ellsworth Christopher yesterday for comments he made to the media about the state of the Devonshire Recreation Club wicket after Tuesday's Denmark-England match in the International Youth Tournament.

Minors criticised the condition of the wicket after Denmark were dismissed for 78, the lowest total so far in the tournament. England went on to win by seven wickets.

But Christopher pointed out that, as match referee, Minors had a responsibility to voice his concerns with chief umpire Luther Wilkin and not the media.

"He was way out of line for making that statement to the media prior to giving his report to Luther Wilkin,'' said Christopher.

"He is not licensed to make statements such as that about the field. Until we get into a situation where we can fulfil our duties and not attempt to take on other people's duties then we are in trouble.

"Anyone taking a position such as that should deal with facts that are pertinent to that game only and not to something that took place four or five weeks ago. That has nothing to do with yesterday's game.'' A Devonshire Rec. official, who asked not to be named, was also unhappy with Minors's comments.

"He and all cricketers must be mindful of the fact that on any given day not all pitches are prepared to everyone's liking,'' said the official.

However, tournament organisers announced yesterday that the Devonshire pitch would not be used for today's match between Scotland and Ireland as had been originally scheduled.

That game will now be played at St. John's field.