Akash Deep put his arms around Ben Duckett’s shoulder after dismissing him for 43 off 38 during the fifth Test, and could be sanctioned for his send-off.
After India were dismissed for 224 at the Kia Oval, England got off to a flier, with Zak Crawley and Duckett bringing up the first 50 runs in just seven overs. India finally had the first breakthrough when Akash Deep dismissed Duckett in the 13th over of the innings. Duckett attempted a reverse scoop off a full delivery that nipped away, but he could only manage a faint edge to keeper Dhruv Jurel.
As the batter was walking back on 43, an innings that contained five fours and two sixes, the bowler celebrated right in front of him. Akash Deep first pumped his fist near his face, and then put his arm around Duckett’s shoulder while having a few words with him. KL Rahul had to pull Akash Deep away, with the incident bringing into focus the ICC Code of Conduct for players.
Is Akash Deep at risk of getting sanctioned?
According to clause 2.12, any form of inappropriate physical contact is prohibited during an international match. It further adds: “Without limitation, players will breach this regulation if they deliberately, recklessly and/or negligently walk or run into or shoulder another Player or Umpire.
“When assessing the seriousness of the breach, the following factors (without limitation) shall be taken into account:
(i) the context of the particular situation, including, without limitation, whether the contact was deliberate (i.e. intentional), reckless, negligent, and/or avoidable;
(ii) the force of the contact;
(iii) any resulting injury to the person with whom contact was made; and
(iv) the person with whom contact was made.”
While Akash Deep’s actions were not aggressive, and the contact with Duckett was not forceful, any form of inappropriate contact is deemed a breach. Duckett remained calm throughout as he walked back to the pavilion, having put England ahead in the game.
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