WI vs AUS: ICC punishes Darren Sammy for criticising umpire Adrian Holdstock

West Indies head coach Darren Sammy has been fined by the ICC (International Cricket Council) for his disparaging remarks against third umpire Adrian Holdstock during the first Test against Australia in Barbados. Sammy had expressed his concerns over two contentious calls during Day 2 of the Test match, which went against the West Indies.

He has been fined 15% of his match fee for a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct. The former West Indies captain was found to have violated Article 2.7 of the Code, which pertains to “public criticism of, or inappropriate comment in relation to an incident occurring in an International Match or any Player, Player Support Personnel, Match Official or team participating in any International Match.”

One demerit point has also been added to Sammy’s disciplinary record, with this being his first offence in a 24-month period. The West Indies head coach has accepted his sanction proposed by Match Referee Javagal Srinath for the charge levelled by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Nitin Menon, third umpire Adrian Holdstock, and fourth umpire Gregory Brathwaite.

Three decisions became the talking point of the Test match as on Day 1, Australia batter Travis Head was given a reprieve by TV umpire Adrian Holdstock after he ruled him not out on 53, citing a lack of evidence on a clear catch by Shai Hope behind the stumps. Later on Day 2, Roston Chase was given out lbw against Pat Cummins, despite the cameras showing an inside edge onto the pads on replays.

To add to West Indies’ woes, Shai Hope was given out against Beau Webster as a low take from wicketkeeper Alex Carey was ruled in Australia’s favour. Darren Sammy even met with match referee Javagal Srinath after Day 2 to express his concerns over the controversial decisions.

"You don't want to get yourself in a situation where you're wondering about certain umpires. Is there something against this team? But when you see decision after decision, then it raises the question,” said Sammy at the end of the day’s play.

West Indies captain Roston Chase has also asked the ICC to impose penalties on umpires for poor decisions after they lost the Test by 159 runs.