Ryder fined for breach of ICC Code of Conduct

Johannesburg:

New Zealand's Jesse Ryder was on Sunday fined 15 per cent of his match fee after being found guilty of breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during his side's Champions Trophy match against Sri Lanka at Wanderers here.

Ryder was found guilty of contravening Level 1.2 of ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials which relates to "abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings" in a hearing convened by ICC Elite Panel Match Referee Javagal Srinath.

The incident took place when Ryder, who scored 74 in the match, while approaching the dressing room struck and broke a chair with his bat.

"This sort of behaviour is entirely inappropriate for any player. It is understandable that Jesse felt disappointment at his dismissal, especially given that he had sustained an injury during his innings and knew he would probably be out of action for a considerable time as a result," said Srinath.

"But he must maintain a certain level of self-control and clearly Jesse's actions went beyond what would be deemed acceptable. That said, he pleaded guilty to the offence, apologised at the hearing and this was his first offence as far as the ICC Code of Conduct is concerned so the fine is at the lower end of the scale," added Srinath.

All Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand and a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player's match fee, and the Match Referee's decision is final and binding.