Starting this season, instead of handing out immediate suspensions, the system tracks repeated offences and penalizes players and officials only if they cross a set threshold.
The latest imposition gives a view that threat of suspension will deter players from repeated violations, ensuring better on-field discipline while keeping the game fair and competitive.
How the demerit system works
Think of it like receiving warnings for slow over-rates or excessive appealing. As per Cricbuzz, if a player keeps making mistakes, they rack up demerit points:
- Minor offences (like excessive appealing) = 1 point
- Moderate offences (like showing dissent to the umpire) = 3-4 points
- Serious offences (like ball tampering or physical altercations) = 5-8 points
Once a player collects too many points, they face suspension:
- 4-7 points = 1-match ban
- 8-11 points = 2-match ban
- 12-15 points = 3-match ban
- 16+ points = 5-match ban
These points stay on record for three years before they are erased, the BCCI said.
What are the key changes in the new demerits points system?
As per Cricbuzz, here are the new changes in the Code of Conduct:
- Suspensions for captains due to slow over-rates have been removed.
- Players can appeal suspensions, but it costs Rs 90 lakh (refundable if successful).
- Demerit points stay on record for three years instead of five (as per ICC rules).
- Old suspensions still apply but won’t count toward new demerit points.
Example: Hardik Pandya’s case
Hardik Pandya received a one-match suspension last season for a slow over-rate. Under the new rules, he still has to serve his suspension, but he won’t get demerit points for it. Previously, captains could be suspended for slow over-rates, but now, they will only face fines and fielding restrictions instead of match bans.
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Be the first to comment