Deccan Chargers to probe Laxman, Afridi remarks

Deccan Chargers will probe the media remarks made by Shahid Afridi and V.V.S. Laxman's response over the captaincy of the Indian Premier League (IPL) team.

Afridi had reportedly blamed Laxman's leadership abilities for the team's poor showing during IPL league in June and even suggested that former Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist should take over the reins of the side in the next edition of the IPL.

Laxman took exception to Afridi's outburst saying it was a collective failure and not the captain's alone. The Test star from Hyderabad accused Afridi of violating team ethics by speaking out to media.

"It is probably time someone told Afridi that a captain can only be as good as the team. He is an experienced cricketer and should not be questioning the way the team functions. Speaking negatively about the team, let alone the captain, is just not on," retorted Laxman.

Stung by Laxman's reaction, Afridi piped down to say he was misunderstood, though he maintained that the Hyderabadi was not aggressive enough.

"Perhaps, what I said about the Chargers on a television show may have come out a bit strong, but my only point was that Laxman needs to be more aggressive on the field."

"It was not my intention to demean Laxman's stature or contribution as a player and captain. I was asked a simple question and I answered it honestly," the dashing Pakistani all-rounder said.

Seeing the war of words between the two cricket stars, the Chargers team management has decided to hold an enquiry to establish the facts.

A spokesman for the Chargers said in a statement: "In the interest of fairness and of thoroughness, both players have been asked to appear before the probe panel.

"When we have established the facts we will take whatever action we consider necessary and appropriate in accordance with the provisions of the IPL contracts between the players and the Chargers."av/vs/sk

(360 Words)06092009NNNN (IANS)

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