Sledging in cricket is a norm, but umpire Steve Bucknor believes the game will never go to a stage of complete on-field anarchy like football.
"Cricketers are a lot better behaved. In football the players swear constantly, they throw abuses at referees, they constantly ask for decisions," Bucknor, who has the unique distinction of officiating in international football and cricket, told rediff.com, after attending Australia's net session in Jaipur on Friday.
"Footballers are hungrier. They come from poor families, at least most of them, whereas cricket is played over the world by middle-class communities. Most of the football players miss out on an education during their formative years and are more aggressive."
On Thursday, fellow-West Indian Chris Gayle was fined for having a go at Australia's Michael Clarke during the Champions Trophy game in Mumbai.
"I use my experience as a football referee when incidents occur on the field. I make sure to stop it at the first sight. If I hear the first word I am not going to allow the second."
The most-capped international umpire, Bucknor cuts an imposing figure on the cricket field with his serious expression and 6'3'' frame. But off it, he is a typical Jamaican, fond of his football and music, and a day of honest work.
Having traveled extensively through the cricket-playing world, Bucknor easily strikes a rapport with the locals and is never too bothered about adjusting to the food and climate of different countries.
"I don't get enough time with my family. But I have to work; I have a job to do. If I do my job well I earn money for my family, so I'm happy working."
Bucknor, 60, stopped refereeing football matches 14 years ago, but no age limit in cricket has seen him stand for four World Cup finals and 113 Tests.
Over the years, the umpire has developed his own style, taking his time (because of which he came to be known as 'Slow death Bucknor') before giving a decision, which is usually preceded by a nod.
"Not always; sometimes there is a nod. To each his own," he says. "What people see on television is what I see before making a judgment. I replay the delivery once, twice in my mind, until I am completely convinced with it."
Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne may have given him some tough moments on the field with their raucous appeals but Bucknor believes players like them keep him alert.
"I like tough players; the tough competitors. People like McGrath and Warne, (Chaminda) Vaas, (Anil) Kumble, who appeal for lots of close bat-pad chances. They keep the umpires on their toes, constantly thinking."
The West Indian, earlier recognized as one of the best umpires along with David Shepherd, has come under flak recently for some shocking umpiring decisions. Along with his increasing age, there have been theories that his eyesight is also not as good as it used to be. The Indian cricket team has been at the wrong end at times, which has not gone too well with the players, administrators or fans.
"Players make mistakes, umpires make mistakes. All of us are humans and we will make mistakes," defends Bucknor.
"There are times when you realize that you have given a wrong decision. You take it in your stride and move on. The players also understand that and they are generally cool about it if you go up to them and admit that you made a mistake.
"But there is no guilt. If I know that I have given someone out when he is not, I will not suffer it and be reluctant to give him out the next time. As umpires, we try to give fair decisions every time."
Bucknor has previously gone on record saying that increasing technology is putting pressure on the umpires. And he predicts more of it coming.
"In the next 10-15 years we will see more technology. It's there to assist the umpires and there is not much benefit of doubt in cricket now, but it's still a game of chance."
