India’s vice-captain Rishabh Pant could be staring at disciplinary action from the ICC after a heated incident involving on-field umpire Paul Reiffel during Day 3 of the 1st Test between India and England at Headingley, Leeds.
What Happened?
The incident occurred during the 61st over of England’s first innings when Pant, frustrated with the condition of the ball after Harry Brook hit a boundary, approached Reiffel for a ball inspection. While Reiffel used the ball gauge and deemed it fit for play, Pant backhanded the ball onto the ground in frustration and stormed off — drawing boos from the English crowd.
Expert Commentary
- Ravi Shastri: “That was frustration from Pant. When you want to change the ball every now and then, it means nothing is happening for the bowlers.”
- Mark Butcher: “Pant’s reaction was needless… not sure Paul Reiffel appreciated it.”
Potential Code of Conduct Breaches
Pant’s actions may fall under two articles of the ICC Code of Conduct:
- Article 2.8 – Dissent at an Umpire’s Decision
- (a) Excessive or obvious disappointment
- (h) Prolonged discussion or arguing with the umpire
- Article 2.9 – Inappropriate Throwing of Equipment
- Refers to “throwing a ball or object in an inappropriate and/or dangerous manner”
If charged, Pant may face a Level 1 or 2 offense, which can lead to a fine, demerit points, or suspension depending on the severity of the offense and the ICC’s discretion.
Context & Match Situation
The ball-related discussions weren’t isolated — even Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah were seen raising concerns earlier. But Pant’s visible frustration on field, especially as a vice-captain, has now come under the scanner.
At stumps on Day 3, India reached 90/2, leading England by 96 runs, with the game finely poised.
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