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West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has faced disciplinary action from the International Cricket Council (ICC), receiving a fine and a demerit point after openly criticizing third umpire’s decision during the first Test against Australia in Bridgetown, Barbados. The incident, which unfolded during play on Day 2, saw the former West Indies captain express significant concerns over a series of controversial decisions that consistently went against his team.
Sammy’s candid remarks to reporters highlighted his frustration with what he perceived as inconsistent umpiring standards, specifically targeting TV umpire Adrian Holdstock. He publicly questioned whether the official harboured any bias against the West Indies side, a sentiment born from a string of contentious rulings throughout the match. His comments quickly garnered attention, leading to an immediate investigation by the ICC.
As a direct consequence of his actions, the charismatic coach has been handed a penalty of 15 percent of his match fee. In addition to the monetary sanction, Sammy has also incurred one demerit point on his disciplinary record. This measure underscores the ICC’s stringent stance on maintaining the integrity of match officials and upholding the Code of Conduct.
Daren Sammy breaches ICC’s Code of Conduct
The ICC confirmed that Sammy was found to be in breach of Article 2.7 of the ICC Code of Conduct. This particular article pertains to “public criticism of, or inappropriate comment in relation to an incident occurring in an international match or any player, player support personnel, match official or team participating in any international match.” The ruling emphasizes the responsibility of individuals in leadership positions within cricket to refrain from public comments that could undermine the authority or impartiality of officials.
Sammy’s outburst was triggered by a pattern of rulings from the TV umpire, which included at least five highly debatable decisions over the course of the first two days of the Test. These contentious calls arguably had a material impact on the flow of the game, potentially influencing the outcome against the home team.
While the frustration of coaches and players is understandable, the ICC remains firm on its policy to protect the sanctity of officiating and the sport’s global image. The West Indies team will now continue the series with their coach carrying a demerit point, a factor that could lead to more severe penalties if further breaches occur in the future.
Sammy’s rationale: Questions umpire’s consistency
Addressing the media following the day’s play, Sammy articulated the team’s desire for greater consistency in umpiring. “You don’t want to get yourself in a situation where you’re wondering about certain umpires. Is there something against this team?” Sammy stated, not shying away from his concerns. The 41-year-old further elaborated, “But when you see decision after decision, then it raises the question. I know he’s here for the series. You don’t want to go in a Test match having that doubt.”
The coach also revealed that his apprehension regarding Holdstock’s officiating was not new, suggesting a perceived pattern stretching back to the West Indies’ series against England. This history, according to Sammy, fuelled his public questioning of the umpire’s decisions and consistency.
