Australia’s leg-spinner Adam Zampa has been handed one demerit point for violating Article 2.3 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Support Personnel during the first ODI of the three-ODI series against South Africa. Zampa had The rule relates to "use of an audible obscenity during an International Match".
Zampa used inappropriate language following a misfield and overthrow off his bowling. Zampa's frustration was recorded on the stump microphone and broadcast.
The leg-spinner's offence comes under Level 1 breaches. He can get a match fee penalty of up to 50 per cent.
“There was no need for an official hearing, as Zampa admitted to his offence and accepted the official sanction as proposed by Andy Pycroft of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees,” the ICC said in a statement.
Zampa had a tough day at the office despite help from the pitch. While Travis Head bagged a four-wicket haul at Cazaly's Stadium, Cairns on August 20, Zampa conceded 58 runs from 10 overs and bagged just one wicket of Matthew Breetzke.
Maharaj bags fifer, outshines Marsh
With the bat, Zampa scored 11 runs from 18 balls. He was knocked over by Lungi Ngidi. Australia were bowled out for 198 in 40.5 overs and lost the first ODI by 98 runs. South Africa's left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj bowled a sensational spell as he took a five-wicket haul to trigger a collapse. On-debut spinner Prenelan Subrayen took a wicket as well.
“Keshav is an outstanding bowler, little bit more spin than we expected. Not a lack of confidence, we have played spin well as a group. He bowled well and got some crucial wickets. (for the next game) We will look at the conditions and make a decision based on that,” said captain Mitchell Marsh who scored 88 runs from 96 balls and ran out of partners in the run chase.
The second ODI of the series will be played at Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay on August 22. Zampa is likely to retain his place in the side ahead of left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann.
Zampa chasing milestone
With two ODIs left, Zampa has a chance to get near the eighth spot on the list of most wickets in the format for Australia. The leggie has 188 wickets from 112 games. He is behind former Australia captain Steve Waugh who took 195 wickets from 325 games.