The ICC recently imposed fines on India’s Pratika Rawal and the England women’s cricket team following the opening ODI at Southampton on Thursday, July 18. Rawal was penalised 10 percent of her match fee and received a demerit point for infringing Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct. The violations were to two separate incidents during the match.

During the 18th over, Rawal made contact with England bowler Lauren Filer while attempting a single. After being dismissed, she was involved in another incident, colliding with Sophie Ecclestone. The ICC determined both incidents were contrary to the spirit of the game. Rawal accepted the charges, meaning there was no need for a formal hearing. The demerit point will remain on her record for 24 months.

Additionally, England were penalised for a slow over-rate. The officials found they had fallen one over short of the required rate, despite allowances. Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct, a team faces a fine of five percent of their match fee for every over they fail to bowl in the designated time. As a result, England players were fined five percent from their match fees.

Despite the fines, the match was fiercely contested. England set a challenging total of 259, with Sophie Dunkley and Alice Davidson-Richards contributing crucial half-centuries to anchor their innings. The two played a pivotal role in setting up a competitive score.

India responded with poise and precision. Deepti Sharma anchored the chase with an unbeaten 62, guiding India to victory. Jemimah Rodrigues also contributed a crucial 48, and India reached the target with 10 balls and four wickets remaining, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

The second ODI will take place at Lord’s on Saturday, July 19. India will aim to extend their lead and clinch the series, while England will be focused on making a comeback to level the score.