Pakistan’s Apple smart watch stunt goes pear-shaped

LONDON: Anti-corruption officers have sought clarification from the Pakistan team management after a couple of their players were seen wearing what appeared to be smart watches in the field on the first day at Lord’s.

While wearing smart watches is not, strictly speaking, prohibited by the ICC’s playing regulations, they have to be disabled in order to comply with anti-corruption procedures.In an effort to combat corruption in cricket over the last few years, players and officials have been obliged to hand over their phones (and any other transmitting devices) to anti-corruption officials ahead of the start of play. They are then locked away and returned to them shortly after stumps.

ICC regulations state that: “Communication devices are prohibited within the PMOA [player and match official area], barring specific exceptions. Without exception, no player shall be in possession of, or use a communication device (such as a mobile phone or a device which is connected to the internet), while in the PMOA.”

An ICC spokesman told ESPNcricinfo: “Apple watches in any way connected to a phone/WiFi or in any way capable of receiving comms such as messages, are not allowed. In effect, it is considered a phone unless ‘disabled’ and just a watch.”

There are several legitimate reasons to continue to wear such a watch when disabled. It still tells the time, for example - though there is also a large clock overlooking the playing area at Lord’s - while fitness data can all be recorded and stored on a disabled device.

ESPNcricinfo understands that the ICC’s anti-corruption officer at the match, Peter O’Shea, was surprised by photographs appearing to show the devices and approached the Pakistan team management at the end of play. The ICC has the power to confiscate the devices and download all material from them in order to monitor recent activity.

While there is no allegation of wrongdoing, it is understood the ICC may advise against wearing such devices in order to avoid such confusion in the future. Their own regulations may well be tightened to reflect that stance.