Level 3 Offences: What Exactly Do They Mean?

As the whole cricketing world waits for the final judgement on James Anderson-Ravindra Jadeja case in the ongoing test series between two of the greatest cricket teams, Business Insider India gives you an insight into the Level 3 Offence, which might put Anderson under a four-test ban, if proven.

Article 2 of the ICC Code of Conduct deals with the code of conduct offences committed by a player or player support personnel.

Section 3 of this Article 2 mentions the Level 3 Offences, which are as follows:

2.3.1 Intimidation of an umpire or a match referee whether by language or conduct (including gestures) during an international match. This includes appealing in an aggressive or threatening manner.

2.3.2 Threat of assault on another player, player support personnel, or any other person (including a spectator) during an international match.

If the match referee feels that a Level 3 Offence is committed in an international match, he can report the alleged offence by lodging a report with the ICC’s legal head as soon as reasonably practicable, and no later than seven days after either the offence was committed or was brought to his attention.

When the charges are proven and it is the first offence committed by the person accused, the suspension can be of four to eight suspension points*, but the maximum period of suspension cannot be more than one year.

If it is a second offence of the same degree, the suspension can be of eight suspension points or a period of time between the equivalent of eight suspension points and one year. In this case as well, the maximum period of suspension cannot be more than one year.

If however, the offence is committed for a third time, the suspension can be between one year and lifetime.

If the person accused thinks that he has been wronged, he can appeal the judgement. However, the ban would remain in effect even while under appeal, unless a properly assembled appeal panel orders otherwise.

The only parties who can appeal a judgement shall be the player or player support personnel found guilty and the ICC’s chief executive officer.

*Suspension Points: Two suspension points equates to either a ban of one test match or two ODIs, depending on the type of match the player is scheduled to play next.

Source: Japan Cricket Association