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Daren Sammy Penalized for Criticizing Third Umpire Holdstock During WI vs AUS Test
Sammy Fined and Given Demerit Point for Breach of ICC Code of Conduct
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has found himself in hot water after making public remarks against third umpire Adrian Holdstock during Day 2 of the opening Test against Australia in Barbados. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has fined Sammy 15 percent of his match fee and awarded him one demerit point, citing a violation of Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct.
The incident stems from controversial decisions made by the third umpire, which resulted in the dismissals of Shai Hope and Roston Chase — two of West Indies’ key batters. Sammy questioned the consistency in officiating, a move that the ICC deemed inappropriate under Article 2.7 of its conduct guidelines.
“I have noticed, especially with this particular umpire, it’s something that for me started in England. It’s frustrating. I just ask for consistency in the decision-making,” said Sammy during a post-day press conference.
What Is Article 2.7 of the ICC Code?
ICC’s Guidelines on Public Criticism
Article 2.7 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel explicitly forbids “public criticism of, or inappropriate comment in relation to an incident occurring in an International Match or any Player, Player Support Personnel, Match Official or team…” regardless of when or how such remarks are made.
The ICC encourages grievances to be addressed through formal channels, warning that public comments could undermine officials’ authority and the game’s integrity.
Learn more about how ICC disciplinary codes work and past sanctions here.
Match Referee Takes Swift Action
The charge was laid by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Joel Wilson, third umpire Adrian Holdstock himself, and fourth umpire Gregory Brathwaite. Match referee Javagal Srinath reviewed the matter and found Sammy in breach of the ICC’s conduct rules.
As per the ICC’s disciplinary process for Level 1 offences, the maximum penalty includes a 50% fine and up to two demerit points. Sammy, however, received a lighter punishment and accepted the charge without contest, thereby waiving the need for a formal hearing.
Tension Over Third Umpire Decisions
The controversy centers on decisions involving Shai Hope and Roston Chase. Both batters were dismissed following reviews handled by Adrian Holdstock, whose interpretation of evidence raised eyebrows.
Sammy’s vocal criticism during a press conference highlighted a broader concern among teams regarding inconsistencies in third umpire verdicts, particularly when high-stakes moments are involved.
Such moments in Test cricket often lead to debates about the efficacy of the DRS system and the accountability of match officials.
Cricketing Community Reacts
While some experts and fans sympathized with Sammy’s frustration, many others believe that coaches and players must adhere strictly to the protocols, particularly when engaging with the media.
This incident is a reminder of the fine line between expressing concern and violating governing rules. It also brings into focus the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect for the sport’s regulations, regardless of emotional intensity during matches.
For official ICC Code of Conduct details, visit the ICC’s Code of Conduct page.
The incident marks a rare but firm action against a head coach in international cricket. With Daren Sammy now carrying a demerit point, future infractions could lead to harsher sanctions. As the series between West Indies and Australia progresses, it remains to be seen whether match officiating will continue to be a talking point or if the spotlight will shift back to on-field performances.
