Ashes 2021-22: England docked five Test Championship points for slow over rate

Nothing went right for England in the first Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane. First, they lost the match by nine wickets and now they have been fined 100% of the match fees. The team has also been docked five-Test Championship points for maintaining  slow over-rate. Match referee David Boon found England five over short of the target, even after taking time allowance into consideration.

As per Article 2.22 of the Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, players are charged 20% of their match fee for every over the team falls short.

Meanwhile, Australia batter Travis Head was also fined 15% of match fees for using inappropriate language. The southpaw breached Article 2.3 of the Code of Conduct for Players and Players Support Personnel, relating to “use of an audible obscenity during an International Match.” Head has also received one demit point, which is his first instance in 24 months. An accumulation of  four such points within 24 months will result in a ban of two limited over games or one Test. The Australian batter used abusive language during the 77th over when he was beaten by Ben Stokes.

Meanwhile, the first Ashes Test ended quickly on Day 4 as the visitors lost their remaining eight wickets for just 77 runs. England started the day on 220 -2, needing another 58 runs to make Australia bat again. A lot rested on skipper Joe Root to allow the team an outside chance of winning.

That was not to be as he was dismissed for 89, managing to add just one run to his overnight score. From there on, none of England batters could get going as they were shot down for 297. Australia chased 20 runs with just the loss of Alex Carey. Head was declared as Player of the Match for his epic 152 runs.

The second match will begin on December 16 at the Adelaide Oval.