ECB 'welcome' Lehmann punishment

Australia

England's top brass have hinted that they were concerned about Stuart Broad's safety when they go to Australia at the end of the year, and were pleased about the ICC taking action against Australia coach Darren Lehmann.

England's top brass have hinted that they were concerned about Stuart Broad's safety when they go to Australia at the end of the year, and were pleased about the ICC taking action against Australia coach Darren Lehmann.

'Boof' had said in an interview with radio station Triple M that he hoped the Aussie fans got 'stuck in' to Broad when the Ashes moved Down Under in November. He also called Broad a cheat, referring to the incident in the first Test when Broad refused to walk after nicking the ball.

The comments were considered inflammatory by the ICC, who fined Lehmann 20 percent of his fifth Test match fee, and the ECB then said they were pleased to see that Broad's safety was being considered and protected.

A statement read: "The England and Wales Cricket Board, having reviewed the disciplinary process undertaken by the International Cricket Council overnight, have welcomed the swift action taken and also noted Cricket Australia's acceptance of the sanctions handed down to their team coach Darren Lehmann.

"The ECB, in supporting its players, management support staff and their families, believe no-one in the game condones incitement of any kind and we will take all necessary steps to ensure safety on tour.

"The ECB now wishes to bring this disappointing incident to a close and will make no further comment."

Lehmann accepted the punishment without protest, and Triple M then offered to pay the fine.

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