Ben Stokes reprimanded for breaching ICC Code of Conduct

Ben Stokes reprimanded for breaching ICC Code of Conduct

England all-rounder Ben Stokes has received an official reprimand by the International Cricket Council for a Level 1 breach of its Code of Conduct on Day 2 of the ongoing Headingley Test against the touring Windies side, on Saturday (August 26). Stokes was charged for "using language or a gesture that is obscene, offensive or insulting during an International Match".

In addition to the reprimand for his breach of Article 2.1.4, a demerit point has also been added to Stokes's disciplinary record.

The incident happened in the 101st over of the Windies' first innings, when Stokes reacted furiously as Shai Hope edged one to the boundary. The Englishman made an inappropriate comment which was clearly audible on the stump mic as well as heard by the on-field match officials.

Stokes admitted the offence at the end of day's play and accepted the sanction proposed by Match Referee David Boon. As a result, no formal hearing was required. The charge was levelled by on-field umpires Chris Gaffaney and S. Ravi, third umpire Marais Erasmus, and fourth umpire Nick Cook.

Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of the player's match fee, and up to two demerit points.

Stokes, who came into the game with two demerit points against his name already, is one away from a cumulative of four, which if happens within a 24-month period, will be converted into suspension points, resulting in a ban.