Jermaine Lannaman, Star Writer

Cecil Fletcher, president of the West Indies Cricket Umpires Association (WICUA), has described as unfortunate reports that a ball was misused during the fourth round WICB four-day Professional League clash between Jamaica Franchise and Leewards Hurricanes at Sabina Park.

The incident, which took place last Sunday's third day, allegedly saw the Leewards using the wrong ball throughout Jamaica's second innings, during which they were given a victory target of 195 runs.

The Jamaicans eventually reached their target at 195 for six inside the first hour on Monday's final day, with Leewards coach, Ridley Jacobs, crying foul after.

"It's unfortunate what has been reported to have taken place," said Fletcher, who is also a member of the WICB Umpires and Match Referees Committee, which deals with and evaluates regional officials.

"However, I am a part of the West Indies Umpires and Match Referees Committee, and, as such, don't want to get into what is being said."

"The match referee for the match is to submit a report, following which it will be reviewed, and, if necessary, decisions will be taken."

According to Jacobs, after having Jamaica on the back foot at 42 for three at tea break, the Leewards were handed a 34 overs old ball after entering the interval with a 16 overs old equivalent.

The former West Indies wicketkeeper argued that the change cost his team, as given the difference in age of the balls, had it been the 16 overs version, his team, could have put Jamaica under more pressure.

Jamaica were at one stage 35 for five in their first innings.

"The normal procedure is that the person who is going to be the standing umpire would retain the ball," said Fletcher, who is in his second two-year term as head of the regional body.

"The fact that it is alleged that there may be a mishap is therefore cause for concern, and we await the reports," added the Jamaican.

Danesh Ramdhanie of Trinidad and Tobago and Christopher Taylor of Jamaica were the standing umpires with Jamaican Athol Hamilton performing third umpire duties.

Another Jamaican, Michael Hylton, was the match referee.