Demerit Points System Explained: Pandya's Suspension Continues

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has introduced a demerit points system in its code of conduct to deter misconduct. This system focuses on the threat of suspension rather than immediate punishment, aiming to encourage better behavior among players and officials.

Key Features of the Demerit Points System:

• Accumulation and Suspension Tiers:

  • 4-7 demerit points: 1-match suspension
  • 8-11 points: 2-match suspension
  • 12-15 points: 3-match suspension
  • 16+ points: 5-match suspension

• Retention Period:

  • Demerit points are retained for 36 months, unlike the ICC's 5-year retention period.

• Sanctions and Appeals:

  • Sanctions for Level 2 and Level 3 offences are appealable before the BCCI Ombudsman.
  • A non-refundable appeal fee of ₹90 lakh is required, refundable only if the appeal is successful.

Hardik Pandya's Case:

• Pandya will serve a one-match suspension for a breach from last season but will not accumulate demerit points.
• Sanctions imposed before the 2025 season will be enforced but will not contribute to demerit points.

Other Updates:

• Minimum over-rate offences no longer result in match suspensions for captains, only fines and fielding restrictions.
• The new regulations were approved by the IPL Governing Council and briefed to captains and managers during a meeting at the Cricket Centre.

This system aims to streamline disciplinary actions while maintaining a balance between deterrence and proportionate punishment.