Rishabh Pant's Umpire Clash In Leeds Test Sparks ICC Rule Debate
Indian Test team vice-captain Rishabh Pant seems to be embroiled in controversies in the first Test against England. On the third day of this match being played in Leeds, Pant's behavior with the umpire was not appropriate, due to which he might get accused of breaking ICC rules. If Pant is found guilty, he may face punishment like a fine or a ban.
What happened on the field?
This incident happened on the second-to-last ball of the 61st over of England's first innings. Harry Brook hit a four off Mohammad Siraj's ball, after which Pant did not find the shape of the ball right. He immediately asked umpire Paul Reiffel to check the ball. Reiffel declared the ball playable after checking it with the gauge, but he did not like this decision.
After this, Pant threw the ball on the ground with his left hand and quickly left the place with his back towards the umpire. The England spectators also hooted Pant on this, and questions started being raised about his behavior.
What was said in the commentary?
Ravi Shastri, sitting in the commentary box, said that the repeated demand to change the ball clearly shows that the bowling was not being effective and Pant was probably frustrated. At the same time, Mark Butcher added that umpire Paul Reiffel did not look happy at all with Pant's attitude.
What do ICC rules say?
According to the ICC Code of Conduct, Pant's action can come under violation of two rules.
• Rule 2.8: If a player disagrees with the umpire's decision or protests with gestures, then it is considered a violation of Level 1 or Level 2.
• Rule 2.9: Deliberately throwing a ball or any object towards a player or umpire is considered against the spirit of the game.
In both these cases, the player can be fined, given demerit points, or even banned for one match.
What can be the effect on Pant?
India finished the third day's play at a score of 90/2, and now the team has a lead of 96 runs. If Pant is found guilty, he may be fined or banned from playing in the next innings. This will not only harm his image but may also affect the team's strategy.
Now it will be interesting to see what decision the match referee takes in this matter and whether Pant gets any punishment or not. The Indian team is already going through a phase of changes with a new captain; in such a situation, action against any senior player can affect the balance of the team.