Proteas fined for slow over rate in the second test
South Africa have plenty to celebrate about after winning the second Test and the series in Centurion but the Proteas have been slapped with a fine for maintaining a slow over rate. The ICC Panel of Match Referees imposed the fine after the hosts were found two overs short of their target given the allotted time taken into consideration.
ICC's statement
"In accordance with Article 2.5.1 of Code of Conduct for Players and Players Support Personnel, relates to minor over-rate offences, players are fined 10% of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in allotted time, with the captain fined double amount"
Faf du Plessis fined 40% of match fee
According to the statement, captain Faf du Plessis has been fined 40 percent of his match fee whereas the other players will lose 20% from their pockets. Plessis has pleaded guilty to the offense and has accepted the sanction proposed by the Panel of Match Referees and hence there will be no need for a formal hearing.
du Plessis walking a tightrope
The South African captain, Faf du Plessis is walking a tightrope and now could face suspension if the offense is repeated again, with him as the captain in the next 12 months. In case, South Africa are found guilty of maintaining a slow overrate, du Plessis will be suspended for one Test match. The skipper will have to be wary going ahead.
What is the ideal over rate?
Ideally, 15 overs have to be bowled in an hour and 90 overs a day. The time allotted includes the treatment given to players in case of injuries, players leaving the field, third umpire referrals and DRS, two minutes per wicket claimed, four minutes per drink break, which is one break per session and the time wasted by the batting side.
