NZ all-rounder Anton Devcich fined $900 for live TV profanity

“To make a mistake is human”- As per the saying, human beings make mistakes, which are inevitable. Even a Sachin Tendulkar can perish for a duck or a Simon Taufel can give a wrong decision – examples which manifest the fact that errors can be made by the best in the business too. Showing dissent or disagreeing with the mistakes are pretty common also.

However, sometimes the expression of disappointment crosses the line and subsequently the complainant suffers the consequences. A similar incident unfolded during a Super Smash T20 contest- New Zealand’s domestic T20 league- between the Northern Knights and the Wellington Firebirds in Hamilton.

The controversy

Matt Taylor, Firebirds’ batsman, was caught on the boundary ropes by Anton Devcich in an attempt to clear the ropes. Devcich caught the ball, however, realised that the momentum might take him over the ropes. Subsequently, he threw the ball back into play. However, after scrutinising the pros and cons, the third umpire declared it a six, undoing the excellent work by the Knights fielder.

The decision irked the Kiwi and he hurled profane words at Wayne Knight- one of the on-field umpires. He was mic’d up to the Sky commentators and the words could easily be heard on television. Though he managed to successfully appeal against a one-match ban, he was handed a $900 fine by the management.

Found guilty

According to Stuff.co.nz, The outcome is yet to be made public, however, it has transpired that the former Kiwi all-rounder is found guilty of level two breach of clause 1.2.1 of NZC’s code of conduct – ‘Showing serious dissent at an umpire’s decision during a match’. The incident also put a restriction on the use of microphones by the players.

Devcich has earlier been involved in a couple of harsh exchanges on the field. During the Knights Plunket Shield game against the Central Districts in October, Devcich slapped off the bails after the ball went into the outfield. The hard-hitting left-hander has played 12 One Day Internationals and four T20 Internationals for the Black Caps.