Ranchi, December 3, 2025 – Indian pacer Harshit Rana has been officially reprimanded for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during India’s 17-run victory over South Africa in the first ODI in Ranchi.
Rana was found to have violated Article 2.5 of the ICC Code, which prohibits players from using language, gestures, or actions that could disparage or provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter following their dismissal. The incident occurred in the 22nd over of the South Africa innings, when Rana gestured toward the dressing room after dismissing Proteas batter Dewald Brevis.
The ICC determined that Rana’s action had the potential to provoke an aggressive response, resulting in one demerit point added to his disciplinary record. This marks Harshit Rana’s first offense in the last 24 months, and he admitted to the breach, accepting the sanction proposed by Richie Richardson, a member of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees.
India’s win was powered by a brilliant century from Virat Kohli, setting the tone for the series. The second ODI is scheduled to be played in Raipur on Wednesday, with South Africa aiming to bounce back.
The ICC continues to enforce strict conduct rules to ensure fair play and sportsmanship, reminding players of their responsibilities both on and off the field during international matches.