In a rare twist of disciplinary action, West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph has been fined 25 per cent of his match fee following an infraction during the first One-Day International against Bangladesh on Sunday.
Joseph’s actions, deemed inappropriate by the match officials, have added a disciplinary mark to his otherwise impressive cricketing portfolio.
The incident unfolded prior to the commencement of play at Providence Stadium, where Joseph reportedly engaged in a heated exchange with fourth umpire Gregory Brathwaite. The disagreement stemmed from Brathwaite’s directive prohibiting Joseph from stepping onto the pitch with his spikes. The fiery pacer responded with language deemed both offensive and abusive, a breach of the ICC Code of Conduct.
Joseph’s second demerit point in a 24-month period
This marked Joseph’s second demerit point in a 24-month period, amplifying the gravity of his misconduct. The bowler readily accepted the penalty and acknowledged his transgression without contesting the proposed sanction. Consequently, no formal hearing was required.
The decision was finalized by Jeff Crowe of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees. Match officials Kumar Dharmasena and Leslie Reifer, alongside third umpire Asif Yaqoob and fourth umpire Gregory Brathwaite, collectively reported the violation.
Level 1 infractions under the ICC Code of Conduct, such as Joseph’s, carry penalties ranging from an official reprimand to a maximum deduction of 50 per cent of a player’s match fee, along with the addition of one or two demerit points.
Joseph’s disciplinary record now reflects his second infraction within two years, a point of concern for the young cricketer and a reminder of the necessity for decorum on the field.
