Pratika Rawal Fined as England Penalised for Slow Over-Rate

The first One Day International (ODI) match between India and England saw Indian batter Pratika Rawal penalised for a breach of the ICC Code of Conduct. According to a statement from the International Cricket Council (ICC), Rawal was fined 10 percent of her match fee due to two separate incidents of avoidable physical contact during the match, which took place on July 7, 2023.

The first incident occurred in the 18th over when Rawal made contact with bowler Lauren Filer while attempting to take a single. Just one over later, after her dismissal, she again made avoidable contact, this time with bowler Sophie Ecclestone, as she walked back to the dressing room. In addition to the fine, Rawal received one demerit point added to her disciplinary record, marking her first offence within a 24-month period.

England’s Slow Over-Rate Penalty

In a separate disciplinary matter, the England team received a penalty for maintaining a slow over-rate during the match. As a result, the team was fined 5 percent of its match fees. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and Rawal both accepted the sanctions imposed by match referee Sarah Bartlett, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.

The match itself concluded with a thrilling victory for India, who managed to secure the win in a tense chase. All-rounder Deepti Sharma played a pivotal role, scoring a match-winning fifty that led her team to success in the series opener.

These incidents highlight the ongoing emphasis on maintaining sportsmanship and adherence to the rules in cricket. The penalties serve as a reminder for players to navigate the game with greater awareness and respect for their opponents.