REPORTS Corbin Bosch Penalised for Send-Off Gesture in Second T20I
The Incident in Focus
The flashpoint occurred in the 17th over of Australia’s innings at Darwin’s Marrara Cricket Ground. Having just taken the wicket of Dwarshuis, Bosch directed a send-off toward the Australian dugout. Match officials ruled the gesture in violation of Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which prohibits “language, actions, or gestures that disparage or could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal.”
Disciplinary Action Taken
Recognized as a Level 1 breach, Bosch received one demerit point on his disciplinary record. He accepted the ICC’s proposed penalty, bypassing the need for a formal hearing. As per regulations, such demerit points remain active for 24 months and could escalate into suspension points if four or more are accumulated within that timeframe. A Level 1 breach also carries penalties such as official reprimands and fines of up to 50% of the player's match fee.
On-Field Brilliance Amid Controversy
Despite the disciplinary setback, Bosch's performance with the ball was commendable. He claimed 3 wickets for 20 runs in his three overs, playing a key role in South Africa’s 53-run victory over Australia, which evened the series at 1–1.
The Proteas’ innings was anchored by Dewald Brevis, who struck a blistering 125 off 56 balls*, becoming the youngest Men’s T20I centurion for South Africa—and registering the second-fastest T20I century for the nation.
Australia’s reply, initially buoyed by Tim David’s 24-ball fifty, ultimately faltered as both Bosch and Kwena Maphaka took three wickets apiece to bowl the hosts out for 165.
What's Next
The series now heads to a climactic final T20I in Cairns on August 16, with pride and momentum at stake. Bosch will have his penalty hanging over his head, but the real test lies in whether he can focus on performance and leave the controversy behind. Following the T20 series, both teams shift gears into the ODI leg starting August 19.
Quick Summary Table
Aspect | Details |
Offence | Send-off gesture to Ben Dwarshuis—breach of ICC Code Article 2.5 |
Sanction | Level 1 breach → 1 demerit point; accepted sanction, no hearing |
Match Impact | Bosch: 3/20; instrumental in securing 53-run win; series levelled 1–1 |
Standout Player | Dewald Brevis’s 125* off 56 balls |
Series Outlook | Decider in Cairns (Aug 16); ODI series to follow |