Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, finds herself in the eye of a storm after her recent actions during and after the third ODI against Bangladesh on July 22, 2023. The International Cricket Council (ICC) is expected to take stringent action against her unprovoked behaviour, potentially resulting in her missing the first two games of the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
During the final ODI against Bangladesh, Harmanpreet Kaur displayed her frustration by hitting the stumps with her bat after being declared out. Her actions did not stop there, as she went on to criticize the match officials and Bangladesh cricket officials during the presentation. These actions have garnered significant attention, and the ICC is expected to impose four demerit points on her, per the relevant code of conduct rule.
According to the ICC’s disciplinary system, when players accumulate four or more demerit points within a 24-month, they are converted into suspension points, resulting in a ban. Two suspension points lead to a ban from one Test, two ODIs, or two T20Is, whichever comes first.
Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain, is an integral part of the Indian women’s cricket team, and her potential suspension could have severe implications for the team’s performance in the upcoming Asian Games.
The Asian Games, scheduled in Hangzhou, China, from September 23 to October 8, holds immense significance for India. The women’s cricket event starts on September 19, and India has already qualified directly for the quarterfinals based on their ICC ranking. However, if Harmanpreet Kaur accumulates four demerit points and is suspended, she might miss crucial knockout matches, including the quarterfinal and semifinal.
Harmanpreet’s absence could be a significant setback for India, given her key role in the team’s leadership and exceptional batting prowess. Losing their captain and a valuable middle-order batters during crucial matches might affect the team’s morale and performance.
Once the ICC announces the sanctions, Harmanpreet Kaur will have the right to appeal. If she chooses to do so, the ICC match referee will conduct a hearing to review the case. However, the outcome of the appeal remains uncertain, and it could potentially prolong the uncertainty surrounding her availability for the Asian Games.
