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Sammy Fined and Given Demerit Point for Criticising Umpire Holdstock
Sammy Fined and Given Demerit Point for Criticising Umpire Holdstock
West Indies head coach Darren Sammy has been fined by the ICC for openly criticising umpire Adrian Holdstock during the first Test against Australia in Barbados. Darren Sammy expressed concerns over Holdstock's decisions.
Daren Sammy, the head coach of West Indies, has been fined 15 per cent of his match fee and received a demerit point because he broke the ICC Code of Conduct Level 1 rule in the opening test against Australia in Barbados on Day 2. After some disputed calls on two well-established batsmen, Shai Hope and Roston Chase, Sammy raised concerns about the reliability of third umpire Adrian Holdstock.
Daren Sammy’s post-match remarks regarding umpire Adrian Holdstock drew disciplinary consequences, as the former West Indies captain was found guilty of breaching Article 2.7 of the ICC Code of Conduct. This provision specifically prohibits public criticism of match officials or players related to international matches, regardless of when the comments are made.
Sammy’s frustration centred on what he perceived as a pattern of inconsistency in officiating, particularly citing experiences going back to England. His comments during the press conference were seen as crossing the line, and although he voiced concerns about fairness, the ICC viewed his statements as inappropriate. Sammy admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction handed down by match referee Javagal Srinath, showing a willingness to move on without contest.
It’s another reminder of how delicate the balance is between voicing genuine concerns and maintaining the professionalism expected at the international level. If you'd like a social-friendly version of this story or want it rephrased with a particular tone factual, critical, or sympathetic I can tailor it just how you want.