BRITISH comedian and actor John Cleese has hit out at Middlesex after the club's decision to appeal a points deduction which could yet relegate Somerset.

The 77-year-old, who was born in Weston-super-Mare, took to Twitter to tell his 5.65 million followers - some of whom were perhaps gaining a first insight into the world of county cricket - that Middlesex were 'asking the ECB to bend the rules'.

He also brought up last year's final day at Lord's, which saw Middlesex and Yorkshire contrive a result and deny Somerset a first County Championship title.

READ MORE: Waiting game goes on as Middlesex formally lodge appeal

The ECB announced yesterday that they have received an appeal from Middlesex and the matter has now been referred to the Chairman of the Cricket Discipline Commission.

A decision may be made next week.