West Indies wicketkeeper Nicholas Pooran has been fined and reprimanded for publicly criticizing the umpires during the second T20I against India. Pooran breached the Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct by openly criticizing the decision-making process during an international match. As a result, he has been fined 15 percent of his match fee and one demerit point has been added to his disciplinary record.
The incident occurred when Pooran expressed his dissatisfaction with a LBW (Leg Before Wicket) decision during the fourth over of India’s innings. He felt that the umpires shouldn’t have used up a player review for a decision that he believed was clearly not out. On-field umpires Leslie Reifer and Nigel Duguid, along with third umpire Gregory Brathwaite and fourth official Patrick Gustard, charged Pooran for his public criticism.
However, Pooran acknowledged his mistake, admitted to the offense, and accepted the proposed sanction of a reprimand from match referee Richie Richardson. As a result, there was no need for a formal hearing. This incident serves as Pooran’s first offense in a 24-month period.
Level 1 breaches carry a range of penalties including an official reprimand, up to 50 percent of a player’s match fee, and one or two demerit points. Pooran’s sanction falls within the minimum penalty range.
Shifting the focus to the cricketing action, Pooran played a crucial role in the second T20I as he scored a match-defining knock of 67 runs off just 40 balls. His innings proved vital for the West Indies, especially after losing two early wickets. Pooran showcased his skill and determination, pacing his innings perfectly.
Despite India’s attempts to get back into the game while defending a target of 153 runs, the West Indies managed to seal the victory with six balls to spare. Alzarri Joseph and Akeal Hossein’s partnership ensured the team’s triumph, giving the West Indies a 2-0 lead in the ongoing T20I series being played in Guyana.
In conclusion, Nicholas Pooran’s criticism of the umpires in the second T20I against India has resulted in him being fined and reprimanded for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct. Pooran has accepted the sanction and hopes to avoid further disciplinary issues in the future. Meanwhile, the West Indies secured a crucial victory, thanks in large part to Pooran’s match-winning innings.
