Darrell Hair reinstated, Inzamam expresses shock

Controversial umpire Darrell Hair, who was banned from standing in top-level matches after the Oval test fiasco in August 2006, was reinstated by the ICC. ICC took this decision, after it found no objections from the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board). It's unlikely that Hair would officiate in the matches involving Pakistan; however, he ill continue to stand in matches involving other Asian nations.

Former Pakistan Captain Inzamam-ul-Haq expressed shock and disgust over Hair's reinstatement. He blamed the PCB for showing leniency in this matter. Meanwhile, Darrell Hair said his time away from top-level cricket caused him plenty of stress, but he expressed hope that he would return with new energy and determination and focus on improved communication. He also studied a Sydney University course as part of his "rehabilitation".