The International Cricket Council (ICC) has dealt a significant blow to Sri Lanka by imposing a two-match suspension on their T20 team captain, Wanindu Hasaranga. This decision comes in the wake of an altercation with an umpire during the third match of the series against Afghanistan in Dambulla.*
Incident
Following the conclusion of the third T20 International against Afghanistan, Wanindu Hasaranga found himself in hot water after engaging in a dispute with the umpire over a particular decision. The ICC deemed this behavior a violation of the Code of Conduct and levied a 50% match fee fine on the player, along with three demerit points.
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Previous Offenses
With these three demerit points, Hasaranga’s total tally has now reached five within a 24-month period, resulting in a two-match ban. This means that Hasaranga will be unavailable for either one Test match or two ODIs or T20s, depending on the schedule. Unfortunately for Sri Lanka, this ban will see Hasaranga miss the initial two matches of the upcoming T20 series against Bangladesh next month.
Ramifications
The altercation during the final over of the third T20 match in Dambulla sparked controversy and disappointment. Hasaranga’s public disagreement with the umpire, Lyndon Hannibal, led to criticism and scrutiny. Additionally, Rahmanullah Gurbaz of Afghanistan also faced sanctions for a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct during the same match, resulting in a 15% match fee fine and the addition of one demerit point to his disciplinary record. This incident, coupled with Gurbaz’s previous demerit point, brings his total to two within a 24-month period.
Outcome
Despite the disciplinary issues, Sri Lanka emerged victorious in the three-match T20 series against Afghanistan, securing a 2-1 win. The final T20 saw Afghanistan clinch a victory, with Wanindu Hasaranga being awarded the Player of the Series for his outstanding all-round performance.
Conclusion
The ICC’s decision to suspend Wanindu Hasaranga underscores the organization’s unwavering dedication to maintaining the integrity and ethos of cricket. While the imposition of disciplinary measures is undoubtedly lamentable, it serves as a poignant reminder to both players and teams alike of the imperative need to adhere steadfastly to the loftiest principles of sportsmanship and reverence for the game, both on and off the field.
