Sanju Samson had one of his best cricketing days as he smashed an unbeaten 97* to help India beat West Indies in a virtual quarter final game. India had to chase 195 and they did that in the process they also created history as this was the highest ever successful run chase for India in the history of the T20 World Cup. Sanju Samson hit the winning runs as he smashed the ball over mid-on and took India to a win. After playing that shot, Samson went down on his knees, put the helmet aside and celebrated. There were plenty of reports that Sanju Samson might face a ban for throwing his helmet citing it was an abuse of equipment. But former umpire Anil Chaudhary has clarified this and here is what he had to say.
Let us look at the rules set by ICC regarding the Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Staff. The law clearly mentions that players must not abuse cricket equipment or behave in a way that goes against the spirit of the game. Throwing equipment on the field, even in celebration, can be viewed as a minor offence.
If the match officials feel that the act amounts to misuse of equipment, it could lead to:
1. A monetary fine
2. Demerit points
3. Suspension in a rare case mostly depending on the severity and past record.
Former umpire Anil Chaudhary has said that Sanju Samson will not be banned for his celebration. ‘’It was an emotional moment. Sanju didn't throw helmet in anger. If it was intentionally in anger, he would have been punished’’ said Anil Chaudhary.
So even if we go by the ICC Laws, it is highly unlikely that Samson will be banned for this incident as it was not intentional. In the past we have seen ICC put up a fine or give demerit points to players if they do it on purpose. Joe Root once threw his bat after beating India in an ODI and there was a small action taken by ICC but in this scenario, Samson has not done anything to warrant any sanction.
