Lee cited for excessive appeals

Brett Lee faces a hefty fine after his appeal for the dismissal of Kevin Peitersen was cited by Match referree Jeff Crowe, in the second Ashes test at Adelaide yesterday.

Pietersen, who had not added to his overnight score of 60, completely missed a ball from Lee early in the first session. The entire Australian team went up for the dismissal, and Lee in particular appeared certain that the wicket had been taken.

He ran some 30 metres in celebration, barely acknowledging the umpire before finally realising that he was not got going to receive the wicket of Pietersen.

Television replays and technologies confirmed that umpire Steve Bucknor had made the correct decision in giving Pietersen not out.

This is not the first instance in recent times of the Australians appealling vociferously for questionable decisions. Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer was particularly critical of the Australian’s style of appealing when his side toured Australia in 2004/05.

However Lee is the first player to have been formally charged. He faces a hearing tonight, and if he is found guilty may be charged his entire match fee of around $12,000 Australian.