``I was told by a member of the Australian team that if a secret poll was taken of cricketers around the world, it would be 100 per cent in support of the idea that he throws,'' Emerson said in an Australian television interview to be screened today.

The umpire's comments are likely raise the temperature ahead of Australia's tour to Sri Lanka later this month.

Emerson called Muralitharan for throwing during a limited-overs match against England at the Adelaide Oval last January. His call prompted angry scenes, with Sri Lankan captain Arjuna Ranatunga leading his players off the field in protest.

Emerson, who had been on stress leave from his regular job at the time, was subsequently told to step down by the Australian Cricket Board (ACB). He has also been overlooked for this season's Test matches in Australia.

Emerson said he did not regretno-balling Muralitharan and believes his forthright manner cost him his job.

``I'm a strong character and they don't want strong characters umpiring Test cricket,'' Emerson told Channel Seven television.

``I think the whole world believes there is something funny about Muralitharan's action.''

Emerson said he had tacit backing from the ACB to call Muralitharan if necessary. He denies stress leave from his job was connected to cricket, and says the ACB were aware of the situation.

He added: ``I would think a lot of people thought I was a malingerer and I take offence at that.''

Emerson said he believed his international career might be over but he is still hoping to make a comeback, adding the integrity of umpires could be in jeopardy because he has not been named to officiate this year.

``If (umpires) are not calling the game as they see it, it probably brings their integrity into question,'' he said.

ACB officials were not immediately available to comment on Emerson's remarks.