By RICHARD BOOCK
Dion Nash is hoping a bit of the Christmas spirit rubs off on a panel looking into the length of his suspension.
The New Zealand cricketer might know by tonight whether his penalty for sledging has been reduced.
The feisty Auckland all-rounder was suspended until January 3 after two
incidents in the recent State Championship match against Otago, jeopardising his availability for New Zealand's one-day series in Australia.
To be heard by a panel comprising national commissioner Nick Davidson, New Zealand Cricket executive director Martin Snedden, umpire Dave Quested, Auckland Cricket Association executive director Lindsay Crocker and Nash, the appeal will be conducted by telephone conference at 9 am.
Crocker, who was at pains to emphasise that his organisation was querying the length of the suspension rather than the decision, said a result could be expected as early as tonight.
"It's important for people to know that the ACA agree with the emphasis on player behaviour, the principle of upholding standards and the International Cricket Council's push for improved conduct," Crocker said yesterday.
"What we do have a problem with is the length of the imposed suspension. It's hard to remember a more severe penalty being handed down in first-class cricket, and we believe it needs to be re-examined."
Nash was apparently cited for abusing an Otago batsman as well as umpire Quested during Auckland's 171-run win at Carisbrook.
Otago are coached by former New Zealand captain and coach Glenn Turner, who has long called for more action against players who indulge in sledging or any other acts of abuse.
The suspension effectively rules out Nash for one state championship match and two State Shield one-day games.
It was handed down by former Otago Cricket Association chairman John Henderson - who was acting in his capacity as the regional commissioner.
Crocker said the ban was "unusually long" and for that reason he wanted the penalty reconsidered.
"We endorse the ICC-led initiative into maintaining the spirit of the game and our appeal in no way diminishes that support," he said.
"For all that, we believe Dion's penalty is excessive."
