Shafali Verma Reprimanded for ICC Code of Conduct Breach

Based on an International Cricket Council release covered by ICC Official Media, Indian cricketer Shafali Verma was handed one demerit point and an official reprimand on Sunday in Raipur for violating Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the second Women’s T20I against Zimbabwe.

Verma Penalized for Equipment Abuse After Dropped Catch

The incident occurred in the 12th over of Zimbabwe’s innings at the crease. After dropping Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano at mid-off off the bowling of Sree Charani, Verma threw the ball into the ground in frustration. The action violated Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which governs the abuse of cricket equipment, clothing, ground equipment, or fixtures and fittings during an international match.

Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 percent of a player’s match fee, and one or two demerit points. This marks Verma’s first offense within a 24-month period.

Sanction Accepted Without Formal Hearing

Match referee G.S. Lakshmi of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees proposed the sanction. Verma admitted to the offense and accepted the penalty, meaning no formal hearing was required.

The offense against the Indian competitor was formally brought forward by third umpire Anna Harris, fourth umpire Janani Narayanan, and on-field officials Vrinda Rathi and Gayathri Venugopalan. Under ICC rules, demerit points remain on a player’s disciplinary record for a period of 24 months from their imposition. When a player accumulates four or more demerit points within that window, they are converted into suspension points resulting in a ban. Two suspension points equate to a suspension from one Test, two ODIs, or two T20Is, depending on what format comes first.

Series Standing and Upcoming Fixtures in Vadodara

India currently lead the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe 2-0. The third and final T20I fixture is scheduled for Tuesday evening.

Following the conclusion of the T20I series, the teams will transition to a three-match ODI series. Those fixtures are set to begin in Vadodara on October 23.