ENG vs IRE: Josh Little handed demerit point for using 'inappropriate language'

Southampton, Aug 3:  Ireland fast bowler Josh Little has been reprimanded and handed one demerit point for breaching ICC Code of Conduct during the second ODI of the ongoing three-match series against England.

Little was found to have breached Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to "using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an international match."

The incident occurred in the 16th over of England's innings last Saturday, when the fast bowler used inappropriate language towards Jonny Bairstow upon his dismissal.

Little admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by match referee Phil Whitticase and as such, there was no need for a formal hearing.

Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a player's match fee, and one or two demerit points. Four or more of such demerit points within a 24-month period attracts a ban.

England currently lead the series 2-0 with the third and final match to be played on Tuesday at the Ageas Bowl.