ICC Reprimands Fatima Sana for Code of Conduct Breach

DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has penalized Pakistan’s captain, Fatima Sana, for violating Level 1 of the ICC’s Code of Conduct during the initial T20I match against Ireland in Dublin. This three-match series saw the incident occur, leading to the official reprimand.

According to the cricket governing body, the bowling all-rounder contravened Article 2.8 of the Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. This article addresses “showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during an international match.”

Consequently, one demerit point has been added to Fatima’s disciplinary record. This marks her first such infraction within a 24-month timeframe.

The incident took place during the 13th over of Pakistan’s innings. Following the on-field umpire’s decision, Fatima remained at the crease after being given out caught behind, and her subsequent slow departure towards the dugout was interpreted as dissent.

Fatima admitted to the offense and accepted the sanction proposed by Graham McCrea of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, thus negating the necessity for an official hearing.

The charges were brought forward by on-field umpires Roland Black and Gareth Morrison, along with third umpire Aidan Seaver.

Level 1 Breaches

Notably, Level 1 breaches can incur penalties ranging from an official reprimand to a financial penalty of up to 50% of the player’s match fee, in addition to one or two demerit points.

Pakistan faced an 11-run defeat in the series’ opening match against Ireland.

Ireland, after being put into bat, scored 142 before being bowled out on the fourth ball of the final over.

Opening batter Amy Hunter was the highest scorer for the hosts with 37 runs from 30 balls, while Orla Prendergast contributed 29 runs off 26 deliveries.

Fatima Sana spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling attack, securing a four-wicket haul.

Pakistan, in their response, managed to score 131/9 in their 20 overs, resulting in an 11-run loss.

Natalia Pervaiz, a middle-order batter, was the top scorer for Pakistan with 29 runs off 23 balls, while Rameen Shamim added a valuable 27 runs from 20 balls.

Prendergast stood out as Ireland’s most effective bowler, claiming three wickets for 28 runs in her four overs.