Indian fast bowler Harshit Rana, who produced a fiery opening spell in the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, may now find himself under ICC scrutiny after his animated – and controversial – send-off to Dewald Brevis.
The moment unfolded in the 22nd over when Rana dismissed Brevis for 37. As soon as Ruturaj Gaikwad completed the catch at sweeper cover, Rana turned towards the departing batter, wagged his finger and appeared to shout a strong Hindi expletive in the heat of the moment. The gesture, caught clearly on broadcast cameras and partially on stump mic, has since gone viral.
Why ICC could penalise Harshit Rana
The ICC Code of Conduct has strict rules regarding player behaviour, especially incidents involving verbal abuse or aggressive send-offs:
1. Level 1 Offence – Use of obscene, offensive or insulting language
If the match referee deems Rana’s outburst as “offensive language directed at a player,” it falls under Article 2.5 or 2.7 of the ICC Code of Conduct.
2. Level 1 Offence – Conduct contrary to the spirit of cricket
Excessive celebrations or gestures that provoke a dismissed batter also qualify as a potential breach.
3. Penalties include:
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An official reprimand
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One or two demerit points
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A monetary fine (up to 50% of match fee)
Since this was Rana’s first major international appearance, a reprimand or fine is most likely — but the decision will depend on what is noted in the on-field umpires’ and match referee’s report.
Why the moment became controversial
Although aggressive celebrations are common in cricket, Rana’s send-off was:
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Directly aimed at Brevis
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Accompanied by a visible swear word
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In front of stump mic and cameras
Given ICC’s increasing emphasis on behaviour, such incidents rarely go unnoticed.
What happens next?
Once the match ends, the referee will review all footage and reports. If a charge is filed, Rana will be notified, and a penalty will be announced within 24 hours.
Despite the controversy, Rana’s on-field performance was exceptional — three wickets in a hostile spell that rattled South Africa early. But the young quick may now face his first disciplinary test at the international level.
