ICC changes umpire for the India-England test series

Dubai, Dec.7 (ANI): The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a change in the appointments of umpire for the upcoming Test series in India following the procedural problems that developed after the changing of venues for the test matches between India and England.Umpire Asad Rauf has been replaced citing visa problems.

Pakistani nationals require city-specific visas while travelling to India.

This week Asad Rauf, the Emirates Elite Panel umpire who was to officiate in both the tests, received his passport back with a visa appropriate for the original venues.

But with the change in venues, Rauf required a new visa. Due to the weekend, followed by the Eid al-Adha holidays, there was insufficient time for visa to be issued, so he has to step down from the first test.

Billy Bowden will replace Rauf.

Bowden will officiate in the first test between India and England in Chennai, beginning on December 11.

It is anticipated that Rauf will be able to stand in the second match of the series in Mohali, starting on December 18.

However, other ICC appointments for the series - on-field umpire Daryl Harper of the Emirates Elite Panel and match referee Jeff Crowe, from the Emirates Elite Panel of match referees - remains unchanged. (ANI)