Australian batter Tim David has been fined 10% of his match fee for showing dissent during the fifth T20I against the West Indies in St. Kitts on July 28. The ICC confirmed the penalty on Monday, stating that David had breached Article 2.8 of its Code of Conduct, which deals with “showing dissent at an umpire’s decision.”
The Incident
The moment occurred in the fifth over of Australia’s innings. West Indies pacer Alzarri Joseph bowled a delivery that strayed down the leg side. Expecting it to be called a wide, David was visibly unhappy when the umpire let it go. He reacted by spreading his arms in frustration and walking toward the umpire while continuing to gesture — an action that crossed the line under ICC rules.
The Consequences
Since it was David’s first offence in a 24-month period, the punishment was light: a 10% fine on his match fee and one demerit point added to his record. He accepted the charge and the sanction proposed by match referee Reon King, which meant no formal hearing was required.
The charge was levelled by the on-field umpires Zahid Bassarath and Leslie Reifer, with third umpire Deighton Butler and fourth umpire Gregory Brathwaite backing the decision.
What the Rules Say
Under ICC guidelines, Level 1 offences — which include gestures of dissent — can result in a minimum of an official reprimand and up to a 50% match fee fine. Players may also receive one or two demerit points.
If a player accumulates four or more demerit points within 24 months, it automatically triggers a suspension: either one Test or two limited-overs matches (ODI or T20I), whichever comes first.
A Gentle Reminder for Players
While Tim David’s reaction may not have seemed dramatic, even small acts of dissent are closely monitored in international cricket. The ICC’s stance is clear: maintaining respect for officials and decisions is non-negotiable — regardless of the match situation.
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