Suranga Lakmal fined for violating the spirit of the game

Sri Lanka’s fast bowler Suranga Lakmal has been fined 50% of his match fee for his reprehensible behavior against Zimbabwe during the 4th match of the Tri-nation series in Bulawayo. According to ICC’s media release:

Sri Lanka’s Suranga Lakmal has been fined 50 per cent of his match fee for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during his side’s match against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo on Monday.

Lakmal was found to have breached Article 2.1.1 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to “conduct that is contrary to the spirit of the game”.

ICC Media Release

In addition to the sanction imposed for his breach of Article 2.1.1, two demerit points have been added to Lakmal’s disciplinary record.

The incident happened during the second over of the match when Lakamal after being hit for a four fielded the following ball and threw it back at the Zimbabwean opener Chamu Chibhabha. The ball missed him comfortably and went to the wicketkeeper.

But his action was deemed as violating the spirit of the game. Lakmal admitted his offense and accepted the sanction provided by match referee Javagal Srinath and hence, there was no need for a hearing.

If Lakmal reaches four or more demerit points within a 24-month period, they will be converted to suspension points and he stands the risk of getting banned. Two suspension points equate to a ban from one Test or two ODIs or two T20Is, whatever comes first for the player.