Image Credit: BCCI
Pant Reprimanded for Dissent in Leeds Test, Avoids Fine
India wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was officially reprimanded by the ICC during the first Test at Headingley after showing dissent toward an umpire’s decision. The incident occurred in England’s first innings on Day 3 when Pant questioned the umpires about the condition of the ball. After his request for a ball change was denied, he threw the ball to the ground in frustration—an act deemed a breach of Level 1 under the ICC’s Code of Conduct.
Following the incident, Pant received a formal official reprimand and was issued one demerit point, which will remain on his record for 24 months. He avoided a financial penalty and formal hearing by immediately admitting the offence and accepting the proposed sanction.
Despite this disciplinary note, Pant has had a stellar Test so far—scoring centuries in both innings (134 and 118), becoming only the second Indian wicketkeeper to achieve twin tons in a single Test. His performance, alongside KL Rahul, was instrumental in setting a challenging fourth-innings target of 371.
Team management and the ICC have treated the issue as isolated, emphasizing that Pant’s conduct did not cross into misconduct. He has not faced any prior disciplinary actions in the past two years. The reprimand highlights ICC rules around dissent but does not impact Pant’s ability to continue playing in the series.
With England set to chase 371 on Day 5, Pant’s on-field passion remains evident—but officials will be keen to ensure it stays within the lines going forward.
