West Indies fast bowler Jayden Seales has been handed a 15% fine of his match fee and a single demerit point following an aggressive send-off directed at Australian captain Pat Cummins during the first day of the Barbados Test. The incident, which took in the 55th over of Australia’s first innings, has drawn attention to player conduct and the vigilant enforcement of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Code of Conduct.
Jayden Seales breaches ICC’s Code of Conduct
The contentious moment unfolded when Cummins, attempting to accelerate Australia’s scoring, was dismissed for a brisk 28 runs off just 18 deliveries, caught at mid-off. Immediately after securing the wicket, Seales was seen making a distinct gesture in the direction of the Australian dressing room, an action deemed to be in violation of the ICC’s regulations.
The specifics of Seales’ transgression fall under Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which prohibits “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match.” Such regulations are in place to uphold the spirit of cricket and ensure respectful behaviour among competitors.
Speaking after the day’s play, a reflective Seales offered his perspective on the incident, downplaying any malicious intent. “I did not really mean anything by the reaction,” he stated, clarifying that “it was more a bit of frustration.” He further elaborated, “Pat hit a couple of good shots off me, and I just showed him where the dressing room was, and there wasn’t really anything in it.” Despite his explanation, the match referee proceeded with the sanction, highlighting the strict interpretation of the code.
This marks a significant point for the young fast bowler, as it constitutes his second offence within a 24-month period. Consequently, Seales now accumulates two demerit points, putting him under closer scrutiny. Accumulation of further demerit points could lead to more severe penalties, including match suspensions, under the ICC’s demerit point system.
Also WATCH: Jayden Seales gives Pat Cummins a heated send-off after dismissing him on Day 1 of Bridgetown Test
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Prior to the incident, Seales had been enjoying a stellar performance with the ball, ultimately finishing Australia’s first innings with impressive figures of 5 for 60. His exceptional bowling effort was instrumental in dismissing Australia for a modest total of 180. In response, the West Indies ended the first day precariously placed at 57 for 4.
The match continued with further twists and turns, including on-field controversies. On the second day at the historic Kensington Oval, the West Indies were bowled out for 190, narrowly taking a first-innings lead. However, the day was overshadowed by several contentious decisions made by TV umpire Adrian Holdstock, which consistently went against the home side. These decisions drew sharp criticism, particularly from West Indies coach Daren Sammy, who voiced his displeasure after his team had managed to reduce Australia to 92/4 in their second innings, setting the stage for a tense conclusion to the Test match.
Also READ: WI vs AUS – Daren Sammy lashes out at umpire Holdstock’s controversial calls during the tense Bridgetown Test
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