ICC Sanctions Cross and Watt for Code of Conduct Breach

DUBAI: Following their ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 encounter against the Netherlands on Sunday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued reprimands to Scotland’s wicketkeeper-batter Matthew Cross and left-arm spinner Mark Watt.

The sport’s governing body stated that Cross and Watt will each face a deduction of 10 percent from their match fees for separate Level 1 breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct during their 19-run loss to the Netherlands.

The Scottish players were found to have contravened Article 2.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which addresses “showing dissent at an Umpire’s decision during an International Match.”

In addition to the financial penalty, one demerit point has been added to the disciplinary record of both Watt and Cross.

The charges were brought forth by on-field umpires Riwan Akram and Roland Black, along with reserve umpire Nitin Bathi. Both players admitted to the offenses and accepted the proposed sanctions, negating the requirement for a formal hearing.

Watt’s charge stemmed from his demonstrative reaction to an unsuccessful lbw appeal against Netherlands captain Scott Edwards, during which he forcefully threw his cap onto the ground to show his disapproval.

Cross’s infraction occurred during the 46th over of Scotland’s innings when he was given out LBW off Roelof van der Merwe. After the on-field umpire’s decision, Cross displayed his bat in disagreement and lingered at the crease before departing.

Level 1 breaches can lead to penalties ranging from an official warning to a fine of up to 50 percent of a player’s match fee, along with one or two demerit points.