Somerset Cricket Club officials have taken action for the defiant antics of volatile striker Dwight Basden during a Premier Division soccer match against St. George's at Somerset last season.

A noticeable absentee during the Trojans' 2-1 Martonmere Cup loss to Devonshire Colts on Saturday night, the fiery player is serving out some form of punishment imposed by club officials after he refused to be substituted during Somerset's final 2001-02 league game.

Though not disclosing just what form of punishment was meted out, Somerset president Colin Smith confirmed yesterday that the club had taken action.

“I can confirm that the club has taken action against Mr.Basden, but what that action is I prefer not to comment on at this time as this is an internal matter,” said Smith.

A source close to the club, however, revealed that Basden had received a three-match ban for the March 3 incident.

Basden, who also plays cricket for Willow Cuts, could not be reached for comment yesterday.

It is also understood that Basden has been replaced as captain with stalwart Karl Roberts assuming that role. This move, however, is not believed to be related to last season's incident.

Yesterday, coach Mark Trott said that it was decided by members of the team to “democratically” nominate a new captain for the new season.

But Trott said he was totally unaware of the latest developments involving one of his key players.

“I'm scheduled to have a team meeting with my coaching staff tonight. So I would prefer not to comment on the matter,” said Trott, now beginning his second year at the helm.

It was during Somerset's final match against St. George's that coach Trott's efforts to bring on Damon Swan for the former captain ran into trouble as Basden refused to come off the pitch.

Swan finally came on for David Lawler in the 76th minute while Basden played on - much to the disapproval of the Trojans' following.

Even president Smith's diplomatic approach from the sidelines was ignored by the player, who enjoyed a successful stint with now defunct Vasco in the late 1990s.