AMSTERDAM, Aug 23: The use of electronic earpieces by players on the pitch has been banned, the International Hockey Federation (IHF) announced on Saturday.

Earpieces were first used by the Dutch women’s team during the World Cup in Australia last November.

The federation has, however, decided to make use of two-way radio links between the two umpires at all major events.

That follows experimental trials this year at events including the Champions Trophy.

“Although there are frequently language issues to contend with between the two umpires, we have found that the umpires benefit from the immediate input of their colleague,” said IHF umpiring committee member Annabel Dillon.

The changing of sticks by players following the award of penalty corners and penalty strokes will be also banned from Jan 1, 2004.—Reuters