Did Channel 10 cross the line in Thunder v Strikers BBL clash?

TEN’S live chats with players in the Big Bash has broken new ground. But last night the commentary team went too far - and today the broadcaster issued an apology.

IT WAS not a great look for the Big Bash League last night when Channel 10 commentator Mark Howard told Adelaide skipper Brad Hodge during the live broadcast his bowler Ben Laughlin had a decent recent record against Shane Watson.

Upon hearing the statistics Watson had fallen twice to Laughlin in the space of eight balls, Hodge injected him into the bowling attack the very next over.

As more than 1 million TV viewers watched on — and millions of dollars were being invested locally and abroad on the live betting markets — Howard told Hodge: “Our master statistician Lawrie Colliver tells us Laughlin has got Watson twice in the last eight balls he’s bowled him in this competition.

The Thunder's Shane Watson drives for runs during the BBL game between the Sydney Thunder and the Adelaide Strikers at Spotless Stadium. Picture: Gregg Porteous

“Really?’’ Hodge says.

“I’ll leave that with you skipper,’’ Howard said.

Hodge laughed and said: “I’ll bring him on next over then. Let’s get him into the game. Next over bud.’’

Watson tonked Laughlin for a boundary with his second ball and did not look troubled.

The broadcaster today issued an apology over the incident.

“Network Ten apologises to Cricket Australia for comments made during last night’s KFC Big Bash League match,’’ a Ten spokesperson said.

“The comments were in no way intended to advise Adelaide Strikers captain Brad Hodge on game tactics or influence the outcome of the game.

“Network Ten ensures that all commentators are educated on Cricket Australia’s integrity codes and policies.”

Watson was probably already aware of Laughlin’s record against him but shrugged off questions about the incident.

Mark Howard (left) made some questionable comments during last night’s broadcast.

“That’s what happens, there are always match-ups, some guys have success against you, some guys don’t,’’ Watson said.

Thunder boss Nick Cummins later said Laughlin would have also known about his recent efforts against the powerhouse right-hander.

But the timing and nature of the conversation was not ideal, especially given cricket officials have had their concerns in the past about information being abused by punters betting legally and illegally around the globe.