Bucknor removed for third Test

India had called for Bucknor's removal following a number of controversial decisions in their ill-tempered second Test defeat in Sydney last week.

The decision will appease India, who have halted their tour schedule following a decision to ban spinner Harbhajan Singh for three Tests for racial abuse.

The ICC initially stated Bucknor would stand as scheduled in Perth but called a press conference in Melbourne to announce the change on Tuesday after the situation developed into a crisis on Monday.

There had been fears the remaining two Tests may not be played as India protested at the perceived injustices of Harbhajan's ban - against which they have launched an appeal - and umpiring standards.

West Indian veteran Bucknor is the world's most experienced umpire having stood in a record 120 Tests. His Sydney counterpart Mark Benson, who has also been caught up in the storm, was not due to stand in Perth.

ICC chief executive Malcolm Speed insists the governing body are not backing down to India's request but believe Bucknor's presence would now be counter-productive.

Speed said: "It is accepted that Steve, and his on-field colleague Mark Benson, did not have good games by their very high standards and we feel that given the added pressure and attention Steve's presence would have at the third Test, it is better for the match and for Steve himself if he does not take part.

"It is important to stress that Steve has not been replaced due to any representations made by any team or individuals. The decision by the ICC to replace Steve for this match was made in the best interests of the game and the series."

Speed also confirmed the ICC have received India's official appeal documents in relation to Harbhajan's suspension.