South Africa fined for slow over-rate

South Africa fined for slow over-rate

South Africa, who lost the first ODI of the three-match series against England by 72 runs, have been slapped with an over-rate fine. Andy Pycroft, the match referee, found AB de Villiers's side one over short of its target after taking into considerations the time allowances.

According to the Article 2.5.1 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel that deals with minor over-rate offences, South African players were fined 10 percent of the match fees for the one over they failed to bowl in the allotted time, while AB de Villiers, being the captain, lost 20 percent of the match fees.

Since de Villiers pleaded guilty and accepted the fine imposed on him and the teammates, there was no formal hearing required in the matter.

Tim Robinson, Rod Tucker, the on-field umpires, Chris Gaffaney, the third umpire, and Michael Gough, the fourth umpire, had laid the charges on the Proteas.

South Africa are playing hosts in a three-match ODI series ahead of the Champions Trophy starting June 1. The tour will continue post the ICC event and the two teams will face off in three T20Is before a four-match Test series.