Sometimes following the rules can appear to be a rather difficult task to undertake at times.
However, when one’s profession is all about applying a set of laws and rules in a game, perhaps it should have been a little easier for Gerard Abood to follow and hold back a little.
Naturally, things get a little tenser and firey when a close relative or someone that you know well are involved, however it is important to remain calm and collected, especially when someone else is doing the same job that you do for a professional living in what would have likely been in a volunteering role.
According to a report by The Sydney Morning Herald, Gerard Abood was fined AUS$5,000 and told to apologise when he started an argument with an umpire at a game that his son had been playing in.
For those unsure on who Abood is, he is considered to be one of Cricket Australia’s leading umpires and has officiated in nine international matches as well as a plethora of games domestically. Some may have already been exposed to the umpire when researching for a number of cricket betting tips that could potentially be rather lucrative when they come in.
Abood was watching his son race to 100 when the call he disagreed with was made. The youngster was run out whilst on 98 and he disputed the call.
He has denied that he used ‘foul or intimidating language during the off-field argument he had with the umpire but did accept that he was wrong to question the decision that was made; indeed, it is unlikely he would expect to see a professional question his decision and continue an argument whilst off the field.
In addition to the AUS$5,000 fine, the 48-year-old was sanctioned to undertake 20 hours of community service through Cricket NSW by November 21 2021.
‘I accept that I have breached Cricket Australia’s code of conduct and apologise unreservedly,’ Mr Abood told The Sydney Morning Herald.
‘As a volunteer myself, I am very aware of the sacrifices made by people to ensure junior sport thrives,’ he said.
The sporting authority said on their website Mr Abood’s conduct was ‘contrary to the spirit of cricket’ and ‘unbecoming of a representative or official’.
‘At no time did I use foul or intimidating language but, given my standing in the game, I should have known better than to question decisions made by the officials on the day,’ Mr Abood reiterated.
Perhaps Abood should have had his umpiring hat on and not his father hat, otherwise he could still have the AUS$5,000 in his wallet.
