The International Cricket Council (ICC) has sanctioned West Indies team head coach Daren Sammy for publicly denouncing third umpire Adrian Holdstock’s calls during the first Test between Australia and West Indies at Barbados.
Daren Sammy Fined and Issued with Demerit Points by ICC
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The ICC charged Daren Sammy with a Level 1 offence under the ICC Code of Conduct, Article 2.7, which bans public criticism of match officials or their actions. Former West Indies skipper Sammy was fined 15% of his match fee and handed one demerit point, to be valid for 24 months. Sammy pleaded guilty to the charges and did not appeal the decision.
What Sparked Daren Sammy’s Frustration?
Daren Sammy criticized both of these contentious third-umpire calls because they significantly contributed to the West Indies’ fortunes in the game:
Roston Chase was dismissed LBW when replays indicated a potential inside edge.
Shai Hope was ruled out caught behind, although there was uncertainty about whether the ball was caught cleanly.
Another appeal by a similar player was added to this, with Australia’s Travis Head being declared not out on Day 1 due to unsatisfactory evidence, despite the majority feeling the ball had pitched into the wicketkeeper’s gloves.
Sammy Queries Umpiring Unfairness
There was a heated post-match media session in which Daren Sammy vented his anger, stating:
“You don’t want to get yourself in a situation where you’re questioning particular umpires. Is there something against this team? But when you see call after call, then it does raise the question.”
Those remarks, although frank, broke ICC rules, leading to discipline.
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Roston Chase Avoids ICC Penalty For Powerful Remarks
Interestingly, West Indies captain Roston Chase, who also questioned the umpiring standards, was not sanctioned by the ICC. Chase was vocal about the emotional toll of the decisions, stating:
“There were so many questionable calls, and none went our way. It could be heartbreaking. You’re out there playing to win, giving it your all, and it seems like everyone is against you.”
Even though his comments were emotionally charged, the ICC did not impose any penalty on the skipper.
Controversial Umpire Holdstock to Carry On in Series
In a turn of events, Adrian Holdstock, the third umpire embroiled in the row, has been given on-field roles for the last two Tests in Grenada and Jamaica. In their place, Nitin Menon and Richard Kettleborough, who officiated as on-field umpires during the first Test, will alternate as TV umpires for the series.
Daren Sammy ICC Controversy – Key Takeaways
Daren Sammy was fined 15% match fee and given 1 demerit point by the ICC for criticizing the third umpire publicly.
Sammy broke Article 2.7 of the ICC Code of Conduct.
He accepted the penalty without appeal.
No action against captain Roston Chase despite his vociferous comments.
Umpire Adrian Holdstock was retained for on-field work in the remaining Tests.
The Daren Sammy-ICC controversy has opened new windows of debate on umpiring consistency and transparency in international cricket. With important games looming ahead, both officials and teams will be under scrutiny, particularly following the dispute that overshadowed the series opener.
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