Bangladesh women's cricketers Nahida Akter and Sarmin Sultana have been handed demerit points for breaching the International Cricket Council (ICC) Code of Conduct during the ongoing One Day International (ODI) series against Sri Lanka. The incidents occurred during the second ODI of the series, which took place in Colombo.
Details of the Breaches
Nahida Akter, the left-arm spinner, was found guilty of violating Article 2.3 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which pertains to the use of obscene or offensive language. During the match, Akter was heard using inappropriate language directed at the opposition. She was subsequently handed one demerit point and fined 15 percent of her match fee.
Sarmin Sultana, the batter, was charged under Article 2.4, which covers conduct contrary to the spirit of the game. Sultana was seen making an inappropriate gesture towards the Sri Lankan players after being dismissed. She received one demerit point and a fine of 10 percent of her match fee.
Acceptance of Sanctions
Both players accepted the sanctions proposed by the match referee, thus avoiding the need for a formal hearing. The demerit points will remain on their disciplinary records for a period of 24 months from the date of the incident. If any player accumulates four or more demerit points within this period, it will lead to a suspension.
Impact on the Series
The second ODI saw Sri Lanka women secure a comprehensive victory, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Bangladesh women, who had shown promise earlier in the series, will now look to salvage pride in the final match. The disciplinary actions serve as a reminder for players to adhere to the code of conduct on the field.
The ICC's zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct aims to maintain the integrity and spirit of the game. Both teams have been reminded to uphold the standards expected of international cricketers.
