Harbhajan Singh ticked off for kicking ad board

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DHAKA - Indian off-spiner Harbhajan Singh has been reprimanded for breaching the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) code of conduct during the first day’s play in the second Test against Bangladesh Sunday.

Harbhajan kicked and damaged an advertising board after a misfield while guarding the boundary.

Match referee Andy Pycroft decided on the matter after the charge was brought by umpires Billy Bowden and Marais Erasmus, third umpire Sharfuddoula and fourth umpire Enamul Haque.

ICC said in a statement Monday: “Harbhajan pleaded guilty to contravening level 1 offence (section 2.1.2) of the ICC code of conduct for players and team officials which relates to abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings.”

“Harbhajan accepted the decision without contest, there was no need for a hearing.”

Pycroft said he “took into account that Harbhajan admitted his mistake and apologised for his actions.”

“I also accepted Harbhajans explanation that he had kicked the advertising board in frustration. Professional cricketers try to give their best effort when they are on the field and whenever they dont live up to the standards they have set for themselves, they feel disappointed. However, venting their frustrations in this manner is unacceptable,” Pycroft said.

“I would now expect him to maintain a certain level of self-control in future and avoid the repeat of the incident as he sets an example for millions of youngsters who follow him around the world.”

All level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand and a maximum penalty of 50 percent of a players match fee.