Decision of Tournament Director in respect of a hearing of breach of the code of conduct by Sukhwinder Singh.
The report
In the 27th minute of the match Great Britain v Canada Singh (24) was contesting the ball with Kirkham (4). The ball left the contest and Singh forced Kirkham away from the path of the ball by lifting his stick. Singh’s stick made contact with Kirkham’s forehead (“the alleged behaviour”).
I determined that if it was proved that the alleged behaviour involved a deliberate lifting of the stick it would amount to a breach of the Code of Conduct, in particular clause 2(a)
(a) Verbal/physical abuse or hostility towards any other participant, person or any other member of the public.
I therefore decided to hold a hearing into the alleged behaviour.
The case presented for Singh was that
1. Singh had won the ball and was attempting to follow it inside to attack.
2. Kirkham was holding him back with the force of his body.
3. In order to play the ball Singh needed to disconnect with Kirkham.
4. In order to disconnect Singh pushed with his arms against Kirkham.
5. As he pushed to free himself his stick came up accidentally striking Kirkham.
6. At all times Singh’s eyes were on the ball as he attempted to reach it to play it.
7. There was no intention to hit Kirkham with his stick.
Decision
I have considered the evidence available. I am satisfied that the alleged behaviour occurred. I find that the behaviour constitutes a breach of clause 2(a) in that it constitutes physical abuse to another participant. In making that finding I have taken into account
1. Singh’s stick made contact with Kirkham’s forehead causing bruising,
2. There was no reason for Singh to lift his stick,
3. Had Singh left his stick at ground level and not been able to play the ball because he was impeded by Kirkham he would have received a free hit,
4. Singh’s action in lifting his stick was deliberate and unnecessary,
5. Singh was reckless as to the consequences of lifting his stick, and
6. Striking the face of his opponent was a real possibility from his deliberate action of lifting his stick.
Penalty
This offence fits at level 2 of the Guidelines of Offences and Penalties - Physical assault, without injury, of another player. A minimum penalty of two matches is suggested.
Singh was suspended by the umpire for 7½ minutes however this behaviour requires greater penalty than that. I am influenced particularly by the height to which Singh raised his stick and the fact that the ball was at all times on the ground. I am satisfied that a penalty of 2 matches is appropriate for this action.
Accordingly I suspend Singh for the matches to be played by Canada on the 19th August 2008 and either the 21st or 22nd August 2008.
Ken Read
Technical Delegate
5.00 pm 18th August 2008
