DURBAN, July 31: Cricket South Africa (CSA), rocked by a leaked report of former Proteas fitness trainer Adrian le Roux, on Tuesday refuted claims from press that the official resigned after the 2007 World Cup because of alcohol abuse among players.

Le Roux's confidential report to CSA following the World Cup was leaked to the press last week.

“He stated clearly in his letter of resignation that he was leaving cricket to concentrate on a new career so that he could be with his family in Bloemfontein," said CSA CEO Gerald Majola.

“We reluctantly accepted Adrian’s resignation because he was a highly valued member of the management team. However, we respected his reasons for leaving because he wanted to stop travelling and be with his family.

“CSA did hold an official inquiry following the match against New Zealand at the World Cup, and it was found that a number of players had been drinking into the early hours after the match. We viewed this in a serious light despite there being no curfew in place on an off day. We have now changed the curfew and other regulations regarding alcohol intake while on tour,” he added.

“The inquiry, our findings and recommendations took place well before Adrian submitted his report after the World Cup. The players concerned know they let themselves and the team down on that occasion, and are now fully aware of what is expected of them as professional cricketers.”

“It is a matter of grave concern, however, that a confidential report with limited distribution to CSA officials should be leaked and sensationalised in this way.”

Proteas coach Mickey Arthur said: “The regulations about the intake of alcohol on tour was only one aspect of a generally very positive report on the fitness levels of the team from Adrian.

We addressed all matters including this that arose regularly on tour and took steps accordingly.”—Agencies