England fast bowler Reece Topley has been fined 15% of his match fee for breaking the ICC Code of Conduct during the first T20 International against the West Indies in Barbados on Saturday. Topley’s action was ruled as a Level 1 offense after he hit a chair against the handrail in frustration following an injury.
“Abuse of cricket equipment”
The ICC cited Topley under Article 2.2, which prohibits “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment, or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.” The incident happened after Topley jarred his right knee early in the game. He tried to continue bowling after a brief rain delay, but after one more delivery, he left the field and did not return.
This wasn’t the first time Topley had reacted strongly to an injury. During the 2023 ODI World Cup, he was ruled out of the tournament after injuring his left index finger in Mumbai. Frustrated, he swiped a chair out of his way while leaving the field that day. While Topley escaped punishment for his actions in 2023, he has now been found guilty and will have to pay the price. In addition to the fine, one demerit point has been added to his disciplinary record.
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With Topley admitting the offense, there was no need for a hearing. Match referee Richie Richardson, from the ICC’s Elite Panel, issued the fine, along with one demerit point on Topley’s record—his first in the last two years. Umpires Leslie Reifer and Zahid Bassarath, third umpire Gregory Brathwaite, and fourth umpire Deighton Butler reported the incident. For Level 1 breaches, penalties can range from an official reprimand to a maximum fine of 50% of a player’s match fee, along with one or two demerit points.
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