In a stern reminder of cricket’s strict disciplinary standards, Pakistan women’s batter Sidra Amin has been officially reprimanded by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct. The incident unfolded during the first ODI against South Africa in Bloemfontein on Sunday, where tensions ran high in a crucial encounter.
The ICC released a statement on Wednesday detailing the violation under Article 2.2, which prohibits the misuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground fittings, or fixtures by players and support staff during international matches. This came after Sidra, visibly frustrated after being dismissed, slammed her bat into the ground before leaving the crease in the 24th over of Pakistan’s innings.
As a result, a demerit point has been added to Sidra’s disciplinary record. This marks her second such offense within a 24-month period—the first occurring on October 5 during the Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 qualifier against India for a similar indiscretion. Her total demerit points now stand at two, putting her under closer scrutiny moving forward.
On-field umpires Karin Claaste and Nimali Perera, third umpire Lauren Agenbag, and fourth umpire Stacy Lacke reported the breach. Sidra promptly accepted the charge and the sanction imposed by Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees member Shandré Fritz, avoiding the need for a formal hearing.
Level 1 breaches typically result in an official reprimand, with potential penalties escalating to 50% of the player’s match fee and one or two demerit points. Sidra escaped with just the reprimand and the demerit point this time.
The match itself was a thriller. South Africa, batting first, posted 260 for 6, powered by Sune Luus’s unbeaten 93 and captain Laura Wolvaardt’s 43. Pakistan chased gamely but fell short at 223 all out in 38.5 overs. Ayesha Zafar top-scored with 81, while Sidra contributed a gritty 68 off 9 fours before her dismissal sparked the controversy.
This episode underscores the ICC’s zero-tolerance approach to on-field discipline, especially in women’s cricket where the sport is growing rapidly. As Pakistan eyes redemption in the series, Sidra will need to channel her aggression positively to avoid further sanctions.