ICC Code of Conduct: Player Behaviour Rules in International Cricket
The ICC Code of Conduct governs player and team official behaviour in international cricket — covering everything from dissent and verbal abuse to pitch tampering and match-fixing.
The ICC Code of Conduct establishes the standards of behaviour expected from players, player support personnel, and team officials in international cricket. Violations are classified by level of seriousness — Level 1 through Level 4 — and carry corresponding penalties ranging from fines to lengthy bans.
Levels of Offence
Level 1 offences are the least serious and include minor dissent against an umpire's decision, using abusive language, and showing dissatisfaction with an umpire in a public display. Penalties are fines of 10–50% of match fee. Level 2 offences are more serious — repeated or aggressive dissent, deliberate distraction — and carry fines of 50–100% plus possible suspension. Level 3 and 4 offences include threatening behaviour, physical contact, and serious breaches of the Spirit of Cricket, with bans of one match to a career ban.
Demerit Points System
The ICC operates a demerit points system running over 24-month rolling periods. Level 1 violations carry one demerit point; Level 2 violations carry two to four; Level 3 carries four to five. When a player accumulates four to seven demerit points within 24 months, they are suspended for one Test, two ODIs, or two T20Is, progressing to longer bans with more points.
Match Referee Role
The match referee is the ICC's representative at each international match and has sole responsibility for investigating and deciding Code of Conduct matters. The referee has access to TV footage and can act on reports from umpires, team management, or their own observations. Players have the right to appeal decisions to the CAS.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Level 1 offence in the ICC Code of Conduct?
A Level 1 offence is a minor infraction such as showing dissent at an umpire's decision, using an audible obscenity, or making a public display of displeasure. The penalty is a fine of 10–50% of match fee.
How many demerit points result in a ban?
Accumulating four or more demerit points within a 24-month rolling period triggers an automatic suspension. The length of the ban increases with higher accumulation.