Monday, August 21 2006 11:57 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

London: The fourth and final Test match is plunged into controversy today (20 Aug, 2006) when Pakistan fails to come out on to the Oval pitch after the tea break.

Pakistan refuses to take the field after the tea interval on the fourth day in protest over being docked five runs for altering the condition of the match ball at the end of the 56th over which had been bowled by Umar Gul.

The tourists are eventually persuaded to return to the field to continue the match after being on the brink of forfeiting the game.

However, in a bizarre twist, veteran Australian umpire Darrell Hair, who has signalled the infringement, is then rumoured to be staging his own protest by refusing to continue to officiate in the match.

Match referee Mike Procter is in the umpires' room, talking with Hair and Billy Doctrove.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Shaharyar Khan ells sources, "We are still hopeful that the match can start again."