New Delhi: England’s Ben Stokes has criticized the ICC after his team was penalized for a slow over-rate in the opening Test against New Zealand, with both teams losing three valuable World Test Championship points, further intensifying the competition for the WTC final.
Despite England’s 8-wicket victory in the first Test against New Zealand, the result was marred by ICC sanctions, as both teams were found three overs short of the required target after considering time allowances.
Under the regulations, both teams were docked one point for each over they were short, alongside a 15% fine on their match fees. This penalty holds significant implications, especially for New Zealand’s chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship final.
Stokes, never one to hold back his opinions, voiced his frustration with the ICC’s ruling on Instagram. “Good on you ICC,” Stokes wrote, along with three shrugging emojis. “Finished the game with 10 hours of play still left.”
The ICC’s sanctions, revealed on Tuesday, have added to the tension in the race for the WTC final. The deduction of three points for both New Zealand and England has affected their standings in the table. England, despite being out of contention for next year’s final, currently sit in sixth place with a points percentage of 42.50, having won 10 and lost nine of their 20 Tests. However, their dominant victory in Christchurch was a strong showing, and Stokes will be keen to build on that momentum in the upcoming Tests.
For New Zealand, the penalty proved to be much more costly. The WTC’s inaugural champions slipped from fourth to fifth place in the standings, with their points percentage now at 47.92. This setback has significantly harmed their chances of qualifying for the final.
Even if New Zealand wins their remaining two Tests against England, their highest possible points percentage would be 55.36%. Much of their fate now depends on the outcomes of other series, making every remaining match crucial for the Black Caps.
The charges against both teams were brought forward by on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Rod Tucker, with support from third umpire Adrian Holdstock and fourth official Kim Cotton. The penalties were imposed by David Boon, a member of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees. Despite the sanctions, both Stokes and New Zealand captain Tom Latham accepted the charges and the proposed penalties without contest, thereby avoiding a formal hearing.
