Did South Africa’s Nonkululeko Mlaba Breach the Code of Conduct?
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Synopsis
In a controversial turn of events during the Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, South Africa's Nonkululeko Mlaba was reprimanded by the ICC for breaching the Code of Conduct. This incident raises questions about sportsmanship and discipline in cricket. Discover how this affects the team's journey in the tournament!
Key Takeaways
- Nonkululeko Mlaba received a reprimand for unsporting behavior.
- The incident occurred during the Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025.
- She took 2/46 in the match against India.
- Level 1 breaches carry penalties including reprimands and demerit points.
- South Africa won the match by three wickets.
Dubai, Oct 11 (NationPress) Nonkululeko Mlaba, the South African spinner, has received an official reprimand from the International Cricket Council (ICC) for violating the Code of Conduct during her team's victory against India in the Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 held in Visakhapatnam on Thursday.
The 24-year-old left-arm spinner was found in violation of Article 2.5 of the ICC’s Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. This article addresses the use of language, gestures, or actions that may belittle or provoke a batter's aggressive reaction upon their dismissal during an international match.
The incident unfolded in the 17th over of India's innings when Mlaba took the wicket of batter Harleen Deol. Following the dismissal, Mlaba waved goodbye to Deol as she exited the field, an act deemed unsporting by the ICC.
In an official statement, the ICC noted: “Mlaba acknowledged the offence and accepted the penalty suggested by the match referee, thus eliminating the need for a formal hearing.”
As a result, Mlaba received an official reprimand along with one demerit point added to her disciplinary record, marking her first infraction in a 24-month timeframe.
According to the ICC, Level 1 breaches like this one incur a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum fine of 50% of the match fee, and one or two demerit points based on the incident's severity.
In this World Cup, Mlaba has been performing well, contributing significantly to South Africa's victory with bowling figures of 2/46, bringing her total to six wickets over three matches.
Nadine de Klerk scored an unbeaten 84, while skipper Laura Wolvaardt played a steady innings of 70, leading South Africa to a three-wicket win over India with seven balls remaining in Match 10 of the ICC Women's World Cup.
South Africa’s bowling attack had India struggling at 102/6 midway through their innings after opting to bowl first. However, a remarkable 77-ball 94 from wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh, who built significant partnerships with the lower order, including a 50-run partnership with Amanjot Kaur (13) and an 88-run partnership with Sneh Rana, who scored 33 off 24 balls, allowed India to post a total of 251 all out in 49.5 overs.
Point of View
It’s essential to highlight that while discipline is crucial in sports, the focus should also be on the positive contributions of players like Mlaba who have shown exceptional skill throughout the tournament. This incident serves as a reminder that maintaining sportsmanship is just as vital as celebrating achievements.
NationPress
12/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Nonkululeko Mlaba's violation?
Mlaba breached the ICC Code of Conduct by using unsporting gestures towards batter Harleen Deol after claiming her wicket.
What are the penalties for a Level 1 breach?
Level 1 breaches can result in an official reprimand, a fine of up to 50% of the match fee, and one or two demerit points, depending on severity.
How did Mlaba perform in the match against India?
Mlaba took two wickets for 46 runs, contributing significantly to South Africa's victory in the match.
What does this reprimand mean for Mlaba's future?
This reprimand adds a demerit point to her record but is her first offence in two years, which means she can continue to play without further penalties unless she breaches again.
How did South Africa secure their win against India?
South Africa chased down a target of 252 runs, led by strong performances from Nadine de Klerk and Laura Wolvaardt.
