Shafali Verma Reprimanded for Code of Conduct Violation

Indian opening batter and vice-captain Shafali Verma has received an official reprimand from the International Cricket Council for breaching the Code of Conduct during Sunday’s second T20I victory against Zimbabwe in Raipur. Verma was issued one demerit point for an incident that occurred in the 12th over of Zimbabwe’s innings. After dropping a catch from a lofted shot by Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano off the bowling of Shree Charani, an frustrated Verma threw the ball onto the ground. Shafali, who was stationed there, shelled a catching opportunity, before the ball hit her jaw.

Match officials determined that her actions violated Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which prohibits the “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.” Because Verma accepted the penalty proposed by match referee GS Lakshmi, no formal hearing was required. This sanction represents her first such offense within a 24-month timeframe.

Despite the disciplinary action, Verma played a central role in India securing the series victory. She delivered a dominant performance with the bat, scoring an unbeaten 55 off just 25 deliveries, which allowed India to chase down their target of 103 runs in under nine overs. Smashing an unbeaten 55 off 25 as India cantered to a 103-run target inside the ninth over, shafali produced the star turn with the bat in the contest.

India has now secured the three-match series with one game remaining. The final fixture is scheduled to take place at the same venue in Raipur on Tuesday, October 20.