Two Bangladeshi cricketers punished for breaching ICC's Code of Conduct, handed one demerit point each

Bangladeshi cricketers Nahida Akter and Sarmin Sultana have been penalized for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the second ODI of the ICC Women’s Championship series against Sri Lanka. As a result of their actions, both players have been fined 10 percent of their respective match fees.

Nahida Akter-Sarmin Sultana fined by ICC

The specific infractions for the two players differed, though both were classified as Level 1 breaches. Nahida Akter was found to have violated Article 2.5, which prohibits using language, gestures, or actions that disparage a batter or are likely to provoke an aggressive reaction following a dismissal. Sarmin Sultana was cited for a breach of Article 2.8, which pertains to showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during an international match.

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Not just that, both players have received one demerit point each. This marks the first such offense for both cricketers within a 24-month period.

What actually triggered the sanctions?

The disciplinary actions stemmed from specific on-field incidents during the match. Nahida Akter was penalised for her conduct after dismissing Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu in the 17th over, during which she pointed toward the pavilion in a provocative sendoff. Meanwhile, Sarmin Sultana was cited for her behavior after being adjudged LBW in the 16th over of the Bangladesh innings; she appeared to express excessive disappointment and delayed leaving the pitch while gesturing toward her bat.

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The charges were formally brought by the officiating team, which included on-field umpires Eloise Sheridan and Rokeya Sultana, third umpire Dolly Rani Sarkar, and fourth umpire Shathira Jakir Jesy. Both players admitted to their respective offenses and accepted the sanctions proposed by the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees representative, Supriya Rani Das. Under ICC regulations, Level 1 breaches carry penalties ranging from an official reprimand to a maximum of 50 percent of a player's match fee, along with the addition of one or two demerit points.

Regarding the overall competition, the result of the second ODI saw Sri Lanka make a significant comeback in the three-match series. By securing the win, they successfully leveled the series at 1-1, setting the stage for a decisive final match.