Former International Cricket Council (ICC) match referee Chris Broad has revealed that he was once instructed to “go easy” on India during a match to save the team from an over-rate penalty.
Broad, who officiated in 622 international matches across formats, made the shocking revelation in an interview with The Telegraph.
He said the incident highlighted India’s growing influence in world cricket.
Broad did not name the match but said India were four overs behind schedule and facing a fine. “I received a call telling me to show leniency, to find some time, because it’s India,” Broad recalled. “After that call, we managed to bring the over rate within the limit to avoid the penalty.”
He added that the same thing happened in the very next match. “Sourav Ganguly didn’t listen to anyone that time. When I called again, they said, now take action,” Broad said.
Broad, who served as an ICC match referee until February 2024, said he wanted to continue but his contract was not renewed. “I would have been happy to keep working, but for 20 years I tried to stay away from political and practical pressure,” he said. “Looking back, 20 years was a long time.”
According to Broad, India’s influence grew even more after former South African cricketer Vince van der Bijl left his position as ICC umpires manager. “During Vince’s time, we had professional support because he had a cricketing background. But after he left, management became weak,” Broad said. “Now India controls most of the funds and holds a dominant position in the ICC.”
“I’m glad I’m no longer part of that system,” Broad concluded. “The job has become far more political than ever before.”