In a recent development during the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Delhi Capitals fast bowler Arundhati Reddy was subject to disciplinary action by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The incident occurred on February 26, during the Delhi Capitals’ game against UP Warriorz at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
The heart of the issue revolves around Reddy’s impassioned celebration following the dismissal of UP Warriorz batter Poonam Khemnar in the 15th over of Warriorz’s innings. Reddy delivered a crafty slower ball which Khemnar attempted to ramp over the field, only managing to find the fielder at short third man. The following events led to the controversy, as Reddy’s animated send-off—which involved a conspicuous roar and a gesture signaling Khemnar to leave the field—caught the attention of the officials.
The WPL released a statement confirming that Reddy admitted to a Level 1 Offence under Article 2.5 of the WPL’s Code of Conduct. This particular rule pertains to “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon her dismissal during a match”. Consequently, for her actions, Reddy was fined 10 percent of her match fees.
Despite this setback, Arundhati Reddy has had a commendable initiation into the WPL with the Delhi Capitals. Beginning the tournament with a couple of vital wickets against the formidable Mumbai Indians, she continued her form by adding another wicket to her tally in the match against the UP Warriorz. Although the Capitals narrowly missed a win against the defending champions, their performance against the Warriorz was nothing short of dominant.
The Capitals showcased a comprehensive display, restraining UP Warriorz to a meager total of 119 runs for the loss of 9 wickets. In response, the Capitals hunted down the target with almost pointed precision, requiring just 14.3 overs and ceding only one wicket.
This impressive bowling display was orchestrated largely by South African all-rounder Marizanne Kapp, who decimated the Warriorz’s top order within the powerplay. Kapp’s spellbinding four-over stint cost a mere five runs. Complementing Kapp’s heroics was Radha Yadav, who further crippled the Warriorz by claiming four wickets, leaving their batting innings in disarray.
When it came to the batting front, the Capitals’ openers Shafali Verma and Meg Lanning shone with a robust partnership. Both batters raced to their fifties, bringing Delhi within touching distance of victory. However, in spite of Lanning’s dismissal by Sophie Ecclestone, the Capitals emerged victorious, marking their first triumph in the league while concurrently handing Warriorz their second defeat in the tournament.
The repercussions of Reddy’s behavior serves as a reminder to all cricketers of the standards of conduct expected within the game. Breaches of this code are met with stringent consequences, regardless of a player’s performance or team result. The WPL is a platform showcasing immense talent and competitive spirit, but it also emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship and respect towards opponents.
The Delhi Capitals’ successful chase granted them their inaugural points of the tournament, illustrating the balance of exceptional individual performances and team synergy. As the WPL progresses, the spotlight on disciplinary issues like that of Reddy’s action underscores the league’s commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism and the integrity of the sport.
