COLTS "BALL-GATE" SHOCK HORROR.....

Stephen Ball was mis-translated in an interview that contributed to him being suspended by The Colts, claims his adviser David Whiteley. The all-rounder was in danger of being banned for two weeks after allegedly refusing to accept the Captain’s view of an incident in the Redbourn derby encounter. After the match a club translator quoted Ball as saying: "I didn't feel right to play so I didn't" but insisted that "the interpretation was incorrect". Ball does speak English but his English his not good enough to host a full-blown interview. Ball met Colts' officials as part of an investigation into the incident.

Ball blamed "confusion in the bar" for the "misunderstanding" and felt there was no reason why he should apologise to his skipper. "I listened to the questions in English and the interpretations were then misinterpreted".

Whiteley said: "The assumption is that Stephen refused to buy a round. Let's hope it is clarified in the next few days - one way or the other - because it's damaging to the Colts, to their talented squad and to Stephen Ball”.

"A lot of things were said but there are not too many options for him if things are proved to be correct. It's a shame because we don't want top players to leave the club but if it's borne out that the things suggested are correct, it will be very hard to see any other outcome."

However, Whiteley believes Ball has always acted professionally and is keen to play more indoor cricket. "You can criticise Stephen for anything but one thing you can't criticise him for is his commitment when he's on the pitch and you can never criticise him for not wanting to play" Whiteley added. "There have been several times at Colts throughout his career where he is taking injections, playing with swollen ankles, where he has played in situations when maybe even doctors have told him not to play. You have to remember Stephen joined the Colts when he had an official offer from Crabtree Dads and Final CC on the table. He was one of the first players to join the Colts' new vision. It's a great vision and Stephen was brought in to help start that vision. So he feels very differently towards the club, he has a very intense feeling".