ICC Fines Scotland’s Matthew Cross and Mark Watt for Code of Conduct Breach
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has fined Scotland’s Matthew Cross and Mark Watt after both players breached the ICC Code of Conduct during their recent ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup League 2 match against the Netherlands. The incident, which occurred in Amsterdam, saw both players penalized for showing dissent at umpire decisions, a Level 1 offence under the ICC regulations.
Details of the Incident
What Happened During the Match?
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Matthew Cross, Scotland’s wicketkeeper-batter, was found guilty of showing dissent after being adjudged LBW to spinner Roelof van der Merwe in the 46th over of Scotland’s innings. Cross reacted by showing his bat to the umpire and delaying his departure from the crease, actions that constitute dissent under the ICC Code of Conduct.
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Mark Watt, Scotland’s left-arm spinner, was penalized for his reaction during the first innings. After an appeal against Netherlands captain Scott Edwards was turned down, Watt voiced his disagreement and threw his cap forcefully to the ground.
Both incidents were reported by on-field umpires Riwan Akram and Roland Black, as well as reserve umpire Nitin Bathi.
ICC’s Ruling and Sanctions
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Both Cross and Watt were found to have breached Article 2.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with “showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during an international match.”
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Each player was fined 10 percent of their match fee for their actions.
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In addition to the financial penalty, one demerit point was added to each player’s disciplinary record.
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Neither Cross nor Watt had any previous offences in the last 24 months.
Both players admitted to their offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by Phil Thompson of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees, which meant that no formal hearing was required.
Understanding the ICC Code of Conduct
Level 1 breaches, such as showing dissent, carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand and a maximum penalty of 50 percent of a player’s match fee, along with one or two demerit points. If a player accumulates four or more demerit points within a 24-month period, these are converted into suspension points, leading to a ban from one Test or two limited-overs internationals.
Match Outcome
Despite the spirited performances from Cross and Watt, Scotland fell short in their chase and were defeated by the Netherlands by 19 runs at the VRA Cricket Ground in Amsterdam.
FAQs
Q1: Why were Matthew Cross and Mark Watt fined by the ICC?
Both players were fined for showing dissent at umpire decisions during the CWC League 2 match against the Netherlands.
Q2: What penalties did Cross and Watt receive?
Each was fined 10 percent of their match fee and received one demerit point on their disciplinary record.
Q3: What does a Level 1 breach mean in the ICC Code of Conduct?
A Level 1 breach is the least severe and typically involves minor misconduct, such as dissent or excessive appealing.
Q4: Did the players accept the ICC’s sanctions?
Yes, both Cross and Watt admitted their offences and accepted the penalties, so no formal hearing was needed.
Q5: What happens if a player accumulates more demerit points?
If a player reaches four or more demerit points within 24 months, they are converted into suspension points, resulting in a ban.
Conclusion
The ICC’s swift action against Matthew Cross and Mark Watt underscores the importance of maintaining discipline and respect for umpire decisions in international cricket. Both players have accepted responsibility for their actions, and the penalties serve as a reminder to uphold the spirit of the game at all times.