Shafali Verma penalised for breaching ICC Code of Conduct against Zimbabwe

Star India batter Shafali Verma has received an official reprimand and a demerit point for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the second T20I against Zimbabwe. The opening batter breached Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to "abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match."

Shafali threw the ball into the ground during the 12th over of Zimbabwe's innings in frustration after dropping Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano at mid-off on the bowling of Sree Charani. She admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by match referee GS Lakshmi, and there was no need for a formal hearing. It was her first offence in a 24-month period.

According to the ICC, Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50% of a player's match fee, and one or two demerit points.

Meanwhile, India have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, following a comprehensive nine-wicket victory in the second match at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur. After captain Josephine Nkomo won the toss and opted to bat first, Zimbabwe were restricted to 102/8 in their allotted 20 overs.

Shafali adjudged Player of the Match

Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano (34 off 32) and skipper Nkomo (27 off 35) emerged as the top scorers for the side, while Niki Prasad (2/7) was the top wicket-taker for India, taking two scalps on her first two deliveries in international cricket.

In reply, India comfortably chased down the target without breaking a sweat in 8.5 overs, riding on a splendid fifty from Shafali Verma (55 off 25). Captain Smriti Mandhana also chipped in with a brilliant knock of 47* (25), laced with six fours and two sixes.

Shafali was also adjudged Player of the Match for her breathtaking half-century. The two teams will next lock horns in the third T20I on Tuesday, October 20.