Ben Stokes fined 15% of his match-fee for abusing a fan

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been reprimanded by the International Cricket Council after he was found guilty of breaching Level 01 of the ICC Code of Conduct on the opening day of the fourth Test between England and South Africa in Johannesburg after he lashed out at a South African supporter, who had abused him as the all-rounder was leaving the field post his dismissal.

Stokes was caught by the host broadcasters for hurling “Come say that to me outside the ground, you f***ing four-eyed c***.”, though they weren’t aired live, nor were the comments of the South African supporter who, as understood swore at the all-rounder and suggested that he looked like Ed Sheeran.

Stokes was subsequently charged with a Level-1 offense – for the use of an audible obscenity – by Andy Pycroft, the ICC match referee, which means that he will lose 15% of his match-fee and will also have one demerit point added to his kitty. Stokes, however, does not have any previous demerit points in the current 24-month period.

Ben Stokes apologized for his act

Earlier, Stokes had accepted the charges leveled against him by Match referee Andy Pycroft and had even released a statement in order to apologize for his actions.

“I wish to apologise for my language that was heard on the live broadcast today after my dismissal. I should not have reacted in that way,” Stokes said in a statement after the close of play. “As I was leaving the playing area, I was subjected to repeated abuse from the crowd. I admit that my reaction was unprofessional, and I sincerely apologize for the language I used, especially to the many young fans watching the live telecast around the world.”

“Throughout the Tests so far, the support from both sets of fans (England and South Africa) has been brilliant. One incident will not ruin such a competitive series, which we are determined to win.” Stokes had said in a statement.

Stokes would, however, be relieved at the fact that Pycroft didn’t interpret the incident as a threat of assault or bringing the game into disrepute- both of which are serious charges carrying higher sanctions. But, maybe the fact that Stokes was provoked by the spectator and perhaps his state-of-mind, considering the health of his ailing father, Ged, would have paved way for lenient charges.