Sean Williams reprimanded for showing dissent in second ODI against Pakistan

Zimbabwe’s Sean Williams has received an official reprimand for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the second ODI against Pakistan at Queen’s Park Oval, Bulawayo, on Tuesday.  

The incident happened in the 26th over of Zimbabwe’s innings when Williams was given out LBW to Pakistan’s Saim Ayub. Williams showed dissent by pointing to his bat, expressing disagreement with the umpire's decision.  

Williams was found guilty of breaking Article 2.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to “showing dissent at an umpire’s decision during an international match.”  

As a result, one demerit point has been added to Williams’ record. This is his first offence in a 24-month period.  

The charge was brought by on-field umpires Michael Gough and Forster Mutizwa, along with third umpire Iknow Chabi and fourth umpire Langton Rusere. Williams admitted his mistake and accepted the sanction proposed by Andy Pycroft, the match referee from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel. Since the player agreed to the decision, no formal hearing was required.  

Level 1 breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct can result in penalties ranging from an official reprimand to a fine of up to 50% of the player’s match fee, along with one or two demerit points.