CAPE TOWN, Feb 10: Match referee Chris Broad revealed on Friday that he has told South Africa and Pakistan to keep a lid on their tempers in the One-day International series.

Broad, the former England opening batsman, met with rival captains Graeme Smith and Inzamam-ul-Haq, as well as the team managers, before the start of play in the rain-affected third one-dayer in Port Elizabeth.

“I have seen indications of rising tensions among the two sets of players over the course of the Test and ODI series and I wished to remind everyone of their responsibilities to each other and the game in ensuring everyone upholds the spirit of cricket,” said Broad.

“I believe my message was understood and I look forward to seeing the remainder of matches in this series played in the best traditions of top level cricket, hard but fair.”—AFP