Tamim Iqbal, Imrul Kayes fined for breaching ICC Code of Conduct

Bangladeshi batsmen Tamim Iqbal and Imrul Kayes were handed a 15 per cent fine of their match fees for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the second Test against Sri Lanka at Colombo. Both batsmen were found guilty of the same offence on the second day’s play of the Test. They were found to have breached the Article 2.1.1 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. This offence pertains to “conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game.”

The moment perspired during the Bangladesh’s innings. Tamim Iqbal was seen showing his bat to the on-field umpire after the fielding side had appealed for an lbw. Tamim showed the bat trying to hint that he had edged the ball. Imrul Kayes was involved in a similar incident later on the day. Kayes was seen pointing to his thigh pad when the Sri Lankans had appealed for a catch. Kayes tried to hint that the ball did not edge his bat and rather took off from the thigh guard.

Soon after the match, both Tamim and Kayes were handed a fine that will charge them 15 percent of their match fees. They admitted to their offence and hence there was no need for any formal hearing on the day. It was match referee Andy Pycroft who handed them the fines. The charge was put forth by the on-field umpires, S Ravi and Aleem Dar, third umpire Marais Erasmus and fourth umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge.

As per the rules of the ICC, all such level 1 offenses are subject to a penalty or warning or a fine as high as 50 per cent of match fees. Also, as per the most recent norms introduced in September 2016, both players have been given one demerit point each in their disciplinary accounts.

Pursuant to Article 7.6 of the Code, once Tamim Iqbal or Imrul Kayes reach four or more Demerit Points within a twenty-four month period, they will be handed two suspension points. This equates down to a ban from their next match or matches. Two suspension points will result in a Test bat or two limited overs match bans.