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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport

You are the Umpire: Jonny Bairstow

You are the Umpire

Click to enlarge, and debate the strip below the line. For a chance to have your cricketing question answered in a future strip, email us at you.are.the.umpire@observer.co.uk.

John Holder’s verdict

1) Yes. He cannot just change from bowling right-arm to left-arm without telling you first. If the bowler had approached you and said this was his intention then it would be up to you to inform the striker, and to make sure that his colleague had also heard. But as it is, you cannot allow play to continue in these circumstances, even if the batsman is relaxed. Call and signal no-ball. Thanks to Peter Sheridan.
2) Again, you have to intervene here. He is not allowed to have another ball on the field during play – it could cause chaos. In ODI s two balls are used for alternate overs, but even then, the one not in use is kept in your possession. So have a word with the fielding captain and make sure the spare ball is removed. Thanks to Anthony Lee.
3) Whatever he was wearing when play started is considered part of his clothing or equipment. So if the buttonhole flower has broken the wicket he is out bowled. Clearly it’s not how he would have wanted to celebrate his big day – but there’s no room for sentiment. Thanks to Sergio Ferraro.

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