Ouma and Haoda reprimanded for breaching ICC Code of Conduct

Kenya's Maurice Ouma and Papua New Guinea's Raymond Haoda have been reprimanded for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during their sides' encounter on day one of the World Cup Qualifier at Pukekura Park, New Plymouth, on Monday.

The two players were found to have breached Article 2.1.4 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to "using language or a gesture that is obscene, offensive or insulting during an International Match".

The incident relating to Ouma occurred in the 18th over of Kenya's innings, when Ouma used offensive language after being caught in the outfield.

The incident relating to Haoda occurred in the 37th over, when Haoda used offensive language after a dropped catch from his bowling.

At the end of the match, both players admitted the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Jeff Crowe of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees.

As such, there was no need for a formal hearing. Commenting on his decision, Mr Crowe said: "The reactions of the players were clearly in breach of the Code, as offensive language has no place on a cricket field. Players need to understand the importance of conducting themselves within the spirit of the game."

The charges were brought by on-field umpires Ruchira Palliyaguru and Shaun George, and third umpire Billy Bowden.

All Level 1 breaches for this offence carry a penalty of a warning/reprimand and/or the imposition of a fine up to 50 per cent of the applicable match fee.