Pakistan is under conspiracy of Ball tampering again at Oval, after seamer Umar Gul’s match-winning World Twenty20 performance against New Zealand. Gul took a world-record five wickets for six runs as the Kiwis were blitzed for 99, but New Zealand team officials confirmed that they alerted the on-field umpires, and match referee Ranjan Madugalle, as to the condition of the ball.

A team spokesman said: ‘The reverse swing Gul achieved after only 12 overs was unusual. As a result of this we spoke to the match officials to find out if this had been achieved fairly. They said they had no concerns.’

The New Zealanders were allegedly told the ball had been damaged after being hit into the crowd, but this is not an explanation that placated the Kiwis, whose net run-rate is in tatters after losing with 41 deliveries to spare.

Pakistan manager Intikhab Alam yesterday described the claims as ‘disappointing’.

He added: ‘Umar Gul is a fantastic bowler and not everyone can bowl reverse swing. You’ve got to have a special ability to pull it off, and Umar’s pace and action make a lot of difference.’

Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq shrugs his shoulders as teammates look on. The fourth Test descended into chaos after Pakistan failed to return to the field after tea after the touring side was accused of ball tampering. Photo: Reuters

The controversy revived unwelcome memories of the abandoned 2006 Oval Test, when captain Inzamam-ul-Haq refused to lead his players out after tea on the fourth day after Pakistan had been docked five runs for alleged ball-tampering.

That charge was later found to be unproven, but conspiracy theorists will note that the first inspection of the ball that day three years ago by umpires Darrell Hair and Billy Doctrove took place at the end of an over bowled by Gul.

Pakistan play Ireland today as they seek to cement their place in the semi-finals.