Two decisive points of the World Test Championship (WTC) have been deducted due to slow over-rate during the hosts’ first Test. In addition, players have been fined 40 percent of their match fees.
The umpiring team of Joel Wilson, Gregory Brathwaite, Nigel Duguid and Leslie Reifer have found the West Indies team guilty of bowling two overs short of the stipulated time, which was approved by match referee Richie Richardson.
Caribbean captain Craig Brathwaite has admitted the offence of slow over-rate, which has not required any formal hearing.
The Code of Conduct created by the ICC also includes the players and the support staff. The offence of slow over-rate comes under its Article 2.22.
Under this rule, the team members have to pay 20 percent of the match fee per over as a fine for the number of overs bowled by a team within the stipulated time. The captain can also be banned if slow over rate was intentional to affect the result of the match.
West Indies have 14 points (point percentage -23.33) after five matches and are currently eighth in the WTC table with the points cut. England also have 14 points, but are in ninth place due to a low percentage (11.67).
The first Test played in Antigua has been a draw and the second Test of the series will be played in Barbados from March 16. West Indies have announced their 13-man squad for the second Test, with no changes made.
Both teams are at bottom, however, such fines and point deduction can affect a team’s image. In the midst of all this, a West Indies coach Phil Simmons has already criticised the pitch for being too easy for batsmen. Also, Carlos Braithwaite has regarded Joe Root’s gesture as “disrespectful” after pushing the match to the final ball despite no winning chances.
There are a lot of positives to expect from the second match. Both teams will aim for a win to furnish their positions in the WTC Points Table.