Sam Curran, a fast bowler for England, was fined 15% of his match fee for breaking Level 1 of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Code of Conduct on Sunday, January 29, in Bloemfontein during the second one-day international match against South Africa. The ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel prohibits utilizing any phrase, action, or gesture toward a batter after their dismissal that could potentially elicit a violent response from the batter. Curran was judged to have violated this provision.
Additionally, Curran’s disciplinary record has been updated with one demerit point for what was his first infraction in 24 months. The incident happened in the 28th over of South Africa’s innings when, after removing Temba Bavuma, Curran overflowed with a celebration near the outfielder, putting themselves in danger of drawing a strong response from Bavuma. There was no need for a formal hearing because Curran acknowledged the violation and agreed to Jeff Crowe’s suggested penalty from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees. The accusation was made by the on-field umpires Marais Erasmus and Adrian Holdstock, the third umpire Bongani Jele, and the fourth umpire Allahudien Palekar.
Level 1 violations are subject to one or two demerit points, an official reprimand, and a maximum fine of 50% of the player’s match fee. “When a player reaches four or more demerit points within 24 months, they are converted into suspension points and a player is banned. Two suspension points equate to a ban from one Test or two ODIs or two T20Is, whatever comes first for the player. Demerit Points to remain on a Player or Player Support Personnel’s disciplinary record for a period of twenty-four (24) months from their imposition following which they will be expunged,” said the statement issued by ICC.
With a 2-0 series advantage, South Africa will play England in the third one-day international on Wednesday at Diamond Oval in Kimberley.
