Hyderabad: Rishabh Pant may face disciplinary action from the International Cricket Council (ICC) after a tense exchange with on-field umpire Paul Reiffel during Day 3 of the first Test between India and England. The incident occurred in the 61st over of England’s innings when Pant expressed frustration over the ball’s condition after Harry Brook hit a boundary off Mohammed Siraj.
Pant approached the umpire and requested that the ball be examined. Although Reiffel passed it through the ball gauge, Pant remained unhappy. He then threw the ball on the ground and walked away, which drew criticism from commentators. Former England cricketer Mark Butcher called the incident “needless,” while ex-India coach Ravi Shastri disapproved of Pant’s reaction.
The India vice-captain could face two ICC Code of Conduct violations. The first potential charge shows dissent at an umpire’s decision, and the second, under Article 2.9, addresses throwing equipment inappropriately or dangerously during an international match.
Despite the controversy, Pant achieved a career milestone. He completed 150 catches as a designated wicketkeeper, becoming the third Indian to reach this feat. He now has 151 catches and 15 stumpings—166 dismissals in total. Only Syed Kirmani (160 catches) and MS Dhoni (256) have more.
Pant reached the mark after catching Ollie Pope off Prasidh Krishna’s bowling. At 27, Pant is now India’s third most successful wicketkeeper regarding dismissals. However, his on-field behaviour could overshadow his milestone if sanctions are confirmed.
