CRICKET SOUTH AFRICA (CSA) has accepted the decision of the ICC’s Independent Commissioner, Michael Beloff QC, to uphold the decision handed down last month by the ICC match referee, Andrew Pycroft, who had then found Proteas Test captain, Faf du Plessis, guilty in terms of Article 2.2.9 of the ICC’s Code of Conduct.
“We are satisfied with the matter being given due consideration by a person independent of the ICC. Both CSA and Faf believed that this appeal was imperative considering the important principles at stake.
“In our view, the fact that Mr Beloff deliberated for some time after hearing complex legal arguments from both sides demonstrates that this matter does indeed require further consideration and clarification from the ICC and the MCC.
“Notwithstanding the outcome of the appeal and Mr Beloff’s helpful rulings on the matter, we hope that further reviews of the Code of Conduct and the laws of the game takes place as players will no doubt continue to seek clarification as to what is or is not permissible in the light of this case,” commented CSA Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat.
Du Plessis has lost his appeal against a ball-tampering conviction, but will be free to play in the first test against Sri Lanka starting on Boxing Day in Port Elizabeth.
The 32-year old was fined 100% of his match fee after the second Test against Australia in Hobart in November, after after television footage showed him applying an artificial substance to the ball during the fourth day’s play.
He was also handed three demerit points by ICC Match Referee, Andy Pycroft.
Du Plessis appealed the decision, and at a hearing in Dubai on Monday, it was decided that the original decision was appropriate and the appeal was dismissed.
