Darrell Hair may have been reinstated by the International Cricket Council but the controversial umpire's man-management skills would be under the scanner for the next 12 months, said ICC Principal Adviser designate IS Bindra.
Addressing a press conference in Mohali on Friday, Bindra said though Hair was rated highly for his decision making ability, the same could not be said about his man management skills.
"Reinstating of Hair was a unanimous decision. He has been a number one umpire in terms of assessment of various captains, though his man-management skills have been a problem," said Bindra, whose initial term as the ICC Principal Adviser starts on July 1.
Consequentially, Hair will be reviewed by the ICC in another 12 months time, he said.
Hair's reinstatement angered former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq, who led the walkout in the Oval Test fiasco involving the Australian umpire.
Upset by Hair's return, Inzamam said Pakistan did not have a strong voice in the ICC, an allegation Bindra dismissed.
"I read statements made by the former Pakistan cricket captain that Pakistan has no voice in the ICC and that it was isolated. This is not correct. Pakistan has a very effective voice under the leadership of (Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman) Nasim Ashraf," said Bindra, also president of the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA).
He also revealed that Ashraf enjoyed full support in his demand that Hair should not officiate in matches featuring Pakistan.
Commenting on bringing back the controversial umpire, Bindra said, "We were clear that we want to reform and rehabilitate Hair."
Regarding his new job, Bindra ruled out the possibility of a conflict with the new ICC chief executive officer and said he had great respect for Imtiaz Patel, the CEO designate, and was looking forward to a cordial working relationship with him.
Spelling out the brief in his new job, Bindra said he would report to the ICC President and attend all meetings, including Board meeting, and for this purpose he will be extended a special invitation by the President.
