Afghanistan's wicketkeeper-batter, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, has been officially reprimanded for violating level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during their victory against England.
Gurbaz was found in violation of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which pertains to the "abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match." Along with this, a single demerit point was added to Gurbaz’s disciplinary record, marking his first offence within a 24-month period.
The incident unfolded during the 19th over of Afghanistan's innings, immediately after his dismissal, where Gurbaz displayed his frustration by forcefully hitting his bat against the boundary rope and a nearby chair.
Taking responsibility for his actions, Gurbaz acknowledged the offense and accepted the proposed penalty by Jeff Crowe, a member of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees. Consequently, no formal hearing was required.
The charge was issued by the on-field umpires Rod Tucker and Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, supported by third umpire Paul Reiffel and fourth umpire Paul Wilson.
Level 1 breaches come with a minimum penalty of an official reprimand and a maximum penalty of 50 percent of a player's match fee, accompanied by one or two demerit points.
Afghanistan pulled off an incredible upset win against the defending champions, beating Jos Buttler's men by a remarkable 69 runs.