Daren Sammy Fined, Receives Demerit Point for Umpire Criticism After Test Match Spat

Sammy Sanctioned for Umpire Criticism

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has been penalized for his comments regarding third umpire Adrian Holdstock's decisions during the first Test against Australia in Barbados. Sammy received a fine of 15 percent of his match fee and one demerit point for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct.

Sammy had questioned TV umpire Holdstock's consistency after contentious decisions on Day 2 © Getty

The incident occurred on Day 2 of the Test match, following controversial decisions that went against West Indies batsmen Shai Hope and Roston Chase. Sammy publicly questioned the consistency of Holdstock's decision-making.

"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," Sammy stated in a press conference, expressing his dissatisfaction with the umpire's calls.

The ICC (International Cricket Council) deemed Sammy's remarks a violation of Article 2.7 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. This article pertains to "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 participating in any International Match, irrespective of when such criticism or inappropriate comment is made."

Sammy admitted to the offense and accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Javagal Srinath.