West Indies Coach Daren Sammy Fined, Reprimanded for Umpire Criticism

Daren Sammy, the West Indies head coach, has been penalized following his remarks concerning third umpire Adrian Holdstock during the first Test against Australia in Barbados.

Sammy had questioned TV umpire Holdstock's consistency after contentious decisions on Day 2 © Getty

Sammy has been fined 15 percent of his match fee and received one demerit point for violating Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct. The incident occurred on Day 2 of the Test match, after contentious decisions were made against West Indies batsmen Shai Hope and Roston Chase. Sammy openly questioned the consistency of third umpire Holdstock.

Sammy's comments included: "I have noticed, especially with this particular umpire, it's something that for me started in England. It's frustrating. I just ask for consistency in the decision-making." He further elaborated on his criticism during a post-match press conference.

The ICC determined that Sammy's statements breached Article 2.7 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. This article pertains to "public criticism of, or inappropriate comment in relation to an incident occurring in an International Match or any Player, Player Support Personnel, Match Official or team participating in any International Match, irrespective of when such criticism or inappropriate comment is made."

Javagal Srinath, the match referee, proposed the sanction, which Sammy accepted. By admitting to the offense, a formal hearing was avoided.