Adam Zampa Reprimanded for Obscene Language During First ODI Against South Africa

Australia legspinner Adam Zampa has been officially reprimanded by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for using audible obscene language during the first ODI against South Africa in Cairns on August 19. This marks Zampa’s first offence under the ICC Code of Conduct in the past 24 months.

The incident took place in the 37th over of South Africa’s innings when, following a misfield and overthrow while Zampa was bowling, he was heard using inappropriate language on the stump microphone, which was picked up during the live broadcast.

Zampa was found in breach of Article 2.3 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with the “use of an audible obscenity during an International Match.” The infraction is classified as a Level 1 offence, the least severe category under the code.

Having accepted responsibility for his actions, Zampa avoided a formal hearing. Match referee Andy Pycroft issued the sanction, which includes a reprimand and one demerit point. Level 1 violations carry a minimum penalty of a reprimand and a maximum fine of 50% of the player’s match fee, along with one or two demerit points.

In the match itself, Zampa bowled ten overs and returned figures of 1 for 58, but could not prevent Australia from sliding to a 98-run defeat at the hands of South Africa. The loss puts Australia 0-1 down in the three-match ODI series.

The remaining ODIs will be played in Mackay, on Friday (August 22) and Sunday (August 24). Australia had earlier won the T20I series 2-1.