Gautam Gambhir And...? 5 Cricketers Who Have Been Banned For On-Field Misconduct

Gambhir's misbehaviour with Watson [Source: @ImJohnnyBravo13/X.com]

Cricket is a gentleman's game, but tempers can flare on the field. From heated exchanges to physical altercations, moments of misconduct have marred the sport's image. While passionate displays are expected, crossing the line can lead to severe consequences. 

One player who has often found himself in the spotlight for on-field incidents is India's talismanic batter, Virat Kohli. His fiery temperament, while often admired by fans, has occasionally landed him in trouble with match officials.

While Kohli has been facing the wrath of ICC since his young days, he is not the only player who has been punished for a 'hot-head'. Hence, here are five instances where cricketers, including Kohli, faced punishment for their on-field actions. 

Gautam Gambhir Elbows Shane Watson (2008)

Gautam Gambhir elbows Shane Watson in 2008 Test [Source: @ImJohnnyBravo13/X.com]

India's current head coach, Gautam Gambhir was banned for one Test after an on-field clash with Shane Watson during the third Test against Australia back in 2008. He elbowed Watson in the chest and the ICC found him guilty of a level two offense for elbowing Watson, though the penalty was reduced later due to the minor contact and provocation. Meanwhile, Watson was fined 10% of his match fee for inappropriate verbal conduct.

---

ALSO READ

‘Virat Kohli Accidentally Bumped Me…’ Sam Konstas Opens Up On Heated Altercation

---

Kagiso Rabada Shoulder Bumps Steve Smith (2018)

Kagiso Rabada intimidates Steve Smith [Source: @cricketcomau/X.com]

Kagiso Rabada was initially banned for two Tests in 2018 for a shoulder bump on Steve Smith during a match, after dismissing the Australian captain lbw. The incident, which occurred during Rabada's follow-through, led to a level two breach of the ICC's code of conduct for inappropriate physical contact. However, Rabada's ban was later overturned on appeal.

Sarfaraz Ahmed Racially Abuses South African Player (2019)

Sarfaraz Ahmed was banned for four matches after admitting to breaching the ICC's anti-racism code during the second ODI against South Africa in 2019. Sarfaraz made racially charged comments to Andile Phehlukwayo, which were picked up by the stump mic. Following the incident, Sarfaraz met Phehlukwayo and issued a public apology. Sarfaraz also posted on Twitter expressing regret and hoping the South African public would accept his apology.

Shakib Al Hasan Banned For Dissent (2021)

Shakib Al Hasan was banned for showing dissent during DPL [Source: @TheABsports/X.com]

Shakib Al Hasan was suspended for three matches and fined USD 5,800 by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for two level 3 offenses during a Dhaka Premier League T20 match between Abahani Limited and Mohammedan Sporting Club in 2021. Shakib was found guilty of misconduct for his aggressive behaviour towards the umpire after an lbw appeal was turned down and for throwing down all three stumps after rain interrupted play. Shakib later apologized for his actions on social media.

Virat Kohli Nudges Sam Konstas (2024)

Virat Kohli nudges Sam Konstas during first day of 4th Test at MCG [Source: @MSD_Rj23/X.com]

Virat Kohli was fortunate to escape with a minor penalty following an 'intentional' shoulder bump with Australian prodigy Sam Konstas on the first day of the ongoing Boxing Day Test at the MCG. The two engaged in a verbal dispute after the bump, with Kohli indirectly provoking Konstas, leading to intervention from the umpires. The ICC fined Kohli 20% of his match fee, allowing him to remain available for the next Test at the SCG, contrary to previous speculation that he might miss the match.

---

ALSO READ

Why Did Virat Kohli Escape A Match Ban After Fight With Sam Konstas? ICC Rules Explained

---