Wanindu Hasaranga Fined for ICC Code of Conduct Breach in World Cup Qualifier Clash vs Netherlands
Wanindu Hasaranga has grabbed 20 wickets in five ICC World Cup Qualifiers Matches
Sri Lankan spinner, Wanindu Hasaranga, has found himself in hot water after breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during a Cricket World Cup Qualifier match against the Netherlands at the Queen's Sports Club in Bulawayo.
Hasaranga faces disciplinary action for bat-swinging outburst
Hasaranga's offense occurred immediately after his dismissal as his frustration got the better of him. Displaying an uncharacteristic outburst of aggression, he brutally struck the boundary skirtings with his bat upon returning to the pavilion, an act that did not go unnoticed by the match officials.
This unsporting behaviour prompted an investigation into the matter. The findings revealed that Hasaranga had violated Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which specifically addresses the "abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match."
As a consequence of this breach, Hasaranga, who has been prolific in the Qualifiers so far, has been handed one demerit point, adding to his disciplinary record. This marks his second offense within a span of 24 months, thereby bringing his total demerit points to two. The accumulation of demerit points serves as a stern reminder to players that repeated violations will not go unpunished.
It is important to note that Level 1 breaches, such as the one committed by Hasaranga, carry a range of penalties. These can vary from an official reprimand to a significant deduction of up to 50 percent of the player's match fee, in addition to the imposition of one or two demerit points.
In this instance, the accumulation of demerit points is of utmost significance. If a player amasses four or more demerit points within a span of 24 months, these points transform into suspension points, eventually culminating in a ban.
The ban comes into effect when a player accumulates two suspension points, resulting in a suspension from either one Test match or two One Day Internationals (ODIs) or two Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), depending on whichever comes first.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka are in a comfortable position atop the Super Six table following a close victory against the Netherlands and their qualification for the upcoming Cricket World Cup in India is almost sealed.
 "Jatin")
