Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka has been fined 75 percent of his match fee after being found guilty of changing the condition of the ball. In addition to the fine, he has been given 3 demerit points to his tally.
Article 2.2.9 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Support Personnel, which relates to “changing the condition of the ball in breach of clause 41.3.”
The new system of demerit points introduced by ICC came into effect on September 22, 2016. As per the system, 4 demerit points equate to 2 suspension points which results in a ban from one Test or two ODIs or two T20Is, whichever comes first.
The incident happened in 50th over of Indian innings. Dasun was seen fiddling with the seam of the ball several times and was caught on TV. Since he showed honesty in admitting his wrongdoings, there was no need for a formal hearing.
“These are early days in Dasun’s career and I am sure this sanction will ensure he is more careful when maintaining the condition of the ball in the future.” said match referee David Boon.
Shanaka”s breach was a Level 2 breach. Level 2 breaches carry a minimum penalty of a fine of between 50-100 percent of the applicable match fee and/or up to two suspension points.
Shanaka has had a tough tour so far with the bat scoring just 8 runs in 3 innings. With the ball, he has been relatively good chipping in which 6 wickets. It is a learning curve for the young man and he will surely come back stronger.
– by Atharva Apte
