IND vs SA 2nd ODI: Harshit Rana Penalised Ahead of Raipur Clash, ICC Docks 50% Match Fee

New Delhi: Ahead of the second ODI between India and South Africa in Raipur, Indian fast bowler Harshit Rana has been penalised by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaching the Code of Conduct during the first ODI in Ranchi. The Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees found Rana guilty of a Level-1 offence, adding one demerit point to his record and imposing a fine of up to 50% of his match fee.

The incident occurred in the 22nd over of South Africa’s innings when Rana dismissed young batter Dewald Brevis. Immediately after the dismissal, the Indian pacer made a gesture directing Brevis towards the dressing room — an act deemed as an attempt to provoke or incite the dismissed batter.

On-field umpires Jayaraman Madanagopal and Sam Nogajski, along with third umpire Rod Tucker and fourth umpire Rohan Pandit, reported the behaviour. Based on their report, Match Referee Richie Richardson issued the sanction without the need for a formal hearing. Rana accepted the charges and the penalty.

Violation of Article 2.5

Rana has been held guilty of breaching Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to using language, actions or gestures that could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter after dismissal. The Level-1 offence carries a maximum penalty of 50% match fee deduction and one demerit point. Since this is Rana’s first offence within a 24-month period, only one demerit point has been added.

Risk of Future Suspension

According to ICC regulations, accumulating four or more demerit points within 24 months can lead to suspension — either one Test, two ODIs, or two T20Is. Rana, therefore, will need to maintain strict discipline going forward to avoid a potential ban.

The sanction comes just hours before the start of the second ODI in Raipur, adding an unexpected twist to India’s preparations. Despite the penalty, Rana’s impressive performance in the Ranchi match — where he delivered a match-winning spell — remains a major positive for Team India.