BBL 07: Ryan Harris handed a suspension penalty for castigating 'obstructing the field' decision

The Big Bash League 2017-18 witnessed one of the most bizarre dismissals in the history of the seven editions of the big tournament. Brisbane Heat batsman Alex Ross was adjudged guilty of obstructing the field by the third umpire in the league game against Hobart Hurricanes. Many people gave their views on the officials’ decision, but former Australian fast bowler Ryan Harris received a serious suspension fine worth A$3,000 (US$ 2300 approx) because of criticizing the on-field call through his tweets on the social media.

Heats skipper Brendon McCullum also questioned his opposition team captain George Bailey and blamed him for withholding the spirit of the game. However in this incident, initially the appeal was made for the run out dismissal but Bailey immediately extended it to obstructing the field after which the officials also found out a possible obstruction. It was a penultimate moment in the league clash as the Hurricanes emerged victorious in the thrilling game after the controversial dismissal.

Harris found guilty for his controversial tweets

Harris who is also a coach at the CA High-Performance centre was charged for posting a series of tweets criticizing the obstructing-the-field decision of the umpires in the 24th game of the season. He was found guilty by Cricket Australia (CA) of breaching the CA Code of Conduct Article Level 2.2.3, which states that any public or media comment that is detrimental to the interests of cricket, irrespective of when or where such comment is made.

“Ryan Harris, CA High-Performance coach, has been charged for breaching the CA Code of Conduct on 10 January 2018, in relation to a number of tweets he sent about the KFC Big Bash League match featuring Brisbane Heat and Hobart Hurricanes,” said a spokesman as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.

The report further mentioned that the Aussie fast bowler is bound to adhere the Code of Conduct as he is handling CA High-Performance coaching duties. It is surely an extreme step taken by the Australian board but Harris could be fully suspended in case the former cricketer is found guilty of another code of conduct breach in a period of 24 months from January 10, 2018. He will have to deal with many heavy penalties and the repercussions would be pretty much severe if the cricketer repeats this mistake.

“Every player and any player support personnel are required to adhere to Cricket Australia’s Code of Conduct. This includes any person employed by, contracted to, representing or otherwise affiliated to CA or any State or Territory Association or BBL/WBBL team. The proposed sanction was a reprimand and fine of $3,000, fully suspended, subject to Harris not being found guilty of any further breach of the Cricket Australia Code of Conduct for a period of 24 months from 10 January 2018,” further added the report.