India ended their three-match ODI series against Australia not only on the wrong side of the result but also carrying a financial penalty. India were fined 10 percent of their match fee after falling behind the required over-rate in the deciding clash at Delhi, a game that finished with Australia sealing a 43-run victory.
Following a review of proceedings, India were found two overs short of their target even after accounting for time allowances. Match referee G.S. Lakshmi, representing the Emirates ICC International Panel, imposed the sanction in line with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct — a clause covering minimum over-rate offences.
Under this regulation, teams are penalised five percent of their match fee for every over not bowled in the allotted time. In this instance, the shortfall amounted to a 10 percent deduction. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur admitted guilt immediately, waiving the need for a formal hearing.
The fine comes at the close of a series that tested India’s depth and discipline. After halting Australia’s 13-match winning streak earlier in the series, the hosts had cause for optimism. But momentum slipped away, and the world champions responded emphatically to claim the series 2-1.
The finale in Delhi summed up the margins at the highest level. Beth Mooney’s poise and Smriti Mandhana’s flair produced centuries that lit up the Kotla. Yet, India’s ground work faltered. Over three games, the team spilled a dozen catches — errors that proved costly, not least in the pressure of a decider. The slow over-rate only compounded the sense of sloppiness in the field.
The sanction, though modest, serves as a timely warning. With the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup beginning in less than a week, precision and discipline are non-negotiable. India begins their campaign in Guwahati on 30 September against Sri Lanka. Their two official warm-ups — against England on 25 September and New Zealand on 27 September — will be vital opportunities to reset.
Australia, meanwhile, open against New Zealand in Indore on 1 October as they chase an unprecedented eighth title.
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