Richard Bryan, Star Writer

The Manchester Cricket Association (MCA) will not appeal the $300,000 fine imposed by the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA), following the parent body's ruling that it had used an ineligible player for six matches of the Super League series.

record fine

The fine is the highest to be faced by a local sporting entity. However, President Pat Anderson made the declaration following an emergency meeting of the Manchester board Thursday night.

"All things considered, we have decided to accept the ruling," Anderson told Star Sports.

The player in question is former national representative Maurice Kepple, who was initially felt to have been duly transferred from Kensington Cricket Club. The Board, however, ruled that the required paperwork had not been submitted in the time prescribed for the transfer window. According to Anderson, the association would instead focus on getting the team to complete the season successfully, as the inaugural Super League Cup champions.

focus

"We are in a position where we can win the competition and it's best to get the team to focus on that rather than fight the board at this time." Anderson, however, did not believe his board was entirely at fault, and indicated the timing of the decision was conspicuous.

"This is a matter that was brought before the Cricket Complaints Committee after about two rounds. As far as we know, everything was deemed to have been okay as we continued to submit the player on match cards for payment. We think the decision comes a little too late in the competition but we have to learn to deal with that quickly and move on," Anderson said.