By Tannistha Dey
Indian fast bowler Harshit Rana, on Monday, was censured for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the ODI match against South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium in Ranchi.
This happened in the 22nd over of South Africa’s chase. After knocking Dewald Brevis for 37, Rana directed a gesture towards the dressing room, an action that drew the attention of the match officials in the field. India had earlier put up a total of 350, and Brevis’s wicket was taken at an important stage of the innings.
According to an ICC release, Rana was found guilty of violating Article 2.5 of the Code of Conduct, which deals with the use of language or gestures that could provoke or disrespect a dismissed batter. Rana accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Richie Richardson, so no formal hearing was required for the same.
The charge was brought forward by on-field umpires Jayaraman Madanagopal and Sam Nogajski, with third umpire Rod Tucker and fourth umpire Rohan Pandit also involved in the process.
This adds one disadvantage to Rana’s disciplinary record. It is his first in a 24-month timespan. Under ICC rules, accumulating four or more demerit points within this period results in suspension points for the player, potentially leading to a ban from one Test or two limited-overs matches.
Despite the incident, Rana had a productive outing with the ball, returning figures of 3 for 65. He removed Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock in his opening spell before coming back to dismiss Brevis.
Ahead of the second ODI, the 23-year-old said he avoids getting distracted by outside chatter. He stated that such gossip doesn’t bother him at all, as he focuses solely on the game and considers it most crucial.
The Indian team management has not issued an official statement on the matter, but team sources indicated that players have been reminded about maintaining composure during high-pressure moments. With two matches left in the series, Rana’s conduct and rhythm with the ball will be watched closely as India aims to keep its momentum intact.