First among equals? Despite the new world order in cricket, there is still the lingering suspicion that justice plays favourites. Depending on who the umpires are, any cricketer contemplating poor behaviour needs only to follow the Michael Clarke template. A refreshingly simple formula — behave inappropriately, even as captain, apologise profusely and voila — despite an admission of guilt, no action by umpires.

Michael Clarke looks on after getting out to Dale Steyn in the second Test in Port Elizabeth. Pic/Getty Images.