Arbitration likely in pay stalemate

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland says independent arbitration is the logical next step unless the sport’s pay deal stalemate is resolved by early next week.

Sutherland says the matter between CA and the Australian Cricketers’ Association could be sorted out in the next few days.

But if not, he favoured independent arbitration as the best method to come up with an agreement which would allow upcoming tours of Bangladesh and India and the home summer Ashes series to go ahead as planned.

‘‘There are a handful of issues that are unresolved that need to be worked through,’’ Sutherland said in Melbourne yesterday.

‘‘I do see a way forward. I’m optimistic that both parties getting together over the next few days can resolve the issue. What we have put forward here is a good solution, it’s a fair-minded solution.’’

Sutherland retained some hope the warring factions could reach peace without arbitration.

‘‘There is no doubt there is a bit of an impasse here,’’ he said. ‘‘But I believe that with positive intent and the right people in the room we can get this sorted in the next few days.

‘‘Failing that, we’re prepared to say we put the issues to arbitration. We accept the umpire’s decision and the game goes on.’’

About 230 Australian players have effectively been unemployed since the start of the month after the expiry of the last pay deal.