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

Daren Sammy Sanctioned for Umpire Criticism

West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has been penalized for publicly criticizing third umpire Adrian Holdstock following contentious 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, after decisions against Shai Hope and Roston Chase led Sammy to question Holdstock's consistency.

Sammy voiced his concerns, stating, "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." These comments, made during a press conference, triggered the sanction.

The former West Indies captain was found in violation of Article 2.7 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which addresses "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 penalty proposed by match referee Javagal Srinath.