Daren Sammy Fined for Umpire Criticism Following Contentious DRS Calls in Australia Test

Sunday - 29/06/2025 03:21

West Indies coach Daren Sammy faced a fine of 15% of his match fee for publicly criticizing TV umpire Adrian Holdstock's DRS rulings during the first test against Australia. Sammy expressed concerns about consistency after contentious decisions at Kensington Oval. Fast bowler Jayden Seales was also penalized 15% of his fee for his send-off to Australian skipper Pat Cummins.

West Indies coach Daren Sammy has been penalized 15% of his match fee for publicly criticizing TV umpire Adrian Holdstock during the first Test against Australia in Barbados. The sanction follows Sammy's expression of concern regarding inconsistent Decision Review System (DRS) rulings on day two of the match.

Daren Sammy expressing his views during a press conference

West Indies coach Daren Sammy (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

Sammy, 41, and in his first Test as the West Indies' coach, faced repercussions after a post-match press conference where he questioned several contentious DRS decisions made at Kensington Oval.

The core of the controversy revolved around two caught behind decisions. One involved Australia’s Travis Head, who was initially ruled not out, and the other concerned West Indies' Shai Hope, who was given out. Sammy also pointed out contrasting lbw referrals pertaining to Roston Chase and Australia’s Cameron Green.

"When there's doubt in something, just be consistent across the board," Sammy stated. "From the images that we're seeing, the decisions are not fair enough for both teams... I just want fairness."

Sammy admitted to breaching the ICC's code of conduct by making inappropriate comments about a match official.

In a separate incident, West Indies fast bowler Jayden Seales also received a 15% fine from his match fee for his send-off to Australian captain Pat Cummins on day one.

These disciplinary actions occurred during a match where Australia secured a 159-run victory, leading the series 1-0.

The teams are now set to travel to Grenada for the second Test, commencing on Thursday.