Harshit Rana reprimanded and handed demerit point for Code of Conduct breach

Harshit Rana has received an official reprimand and one demerit point for a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct during the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi.

The breach occurred under Article 2.5, which covers language, actions, or gestures that disparage or could provoke an aggressive reaction from a dismissed batter. This is Rana's first offence within a 24-month period.

The incident happened in the 22nd over of South Africa's innings. After dismissing Dewald Brevis, Rana made a gesture towards the dressing room that was deemed capable of provoking a response from the batter.

Rana accepted the charge and the sanction proposed by match referee Richie Richardson, avoiding a formal hearing.

The charge was brought by on-field umpires Jayaraman Madanagopal and Sam Nogajski, third umpire Rod Tucker, and fourth umpire Rohan Pandit.

For Level 1 offences, penalties range from an official reprimand to a fine of up to 50% of the match fee, along with one or two demerit points.

When a player accumulates four or more demerit points within 24 months, these are converted into suspension points leading to a ban. Two suspension points result in a ban from one Test, two ODIs, or two T20Is, whichever comes first for the player.