Sri Lanka's Asitha Fernando Reprimanded for Code Violation

During the third day of the second Test against Pakistan in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s fast bowler Asitha Fernando has been reprimanded for violating the ICC Code of Conduct.

The breach, classified as Level 1, pertains to “using language, actions, or gestures which disparage or provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match.”

The incident occurred while Fernando was playing on the third day in Colombo, where he broke a resilient century partnership between Abdullah Shafique and Saud Shakeel by dismissing the latter.

Following the dismissal, Fernando’s actions were considered inappropriate as he approached the batter and celebrated in an unsuitable manner.

Acknowledging his mistake, Fernando admitted to the offence and accepted the penalty suggested by David Boon of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.

As a result of this breach, one demerit point has been added to Fernando’s disciplinary record. It is the first offence within a 24-month period for the player.

It is important to note that if a player accumulates four or more demerit points within a 24-month period, they are converted into suspension points, which may lead to a ban.

Two suspension points can result in a player being banned from one Test or two ODIs or two T20Is, whichever comes first for the player.

In the match itself, Pakistan performed impressively, finishing the day with a commanding lead of 397, posting a score of 563/5.