Indian opening batter Shafali Verma has been reprimanded by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and handed one demerit point for expressing frustration after dropping a catch during the second T20I against Zimbabwe.

India secured the series with one match to spare after defeating Zimbabwe in Raipur last Sunday. The incident occurred during the 12th over of Zimbabwe’s innings.

Zimbabwe batter Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano played a shot off Shree Charani towards mid-off, where India’s T20 vice-captain Shafali was stationed. She dropped a straightforward catch, and the ball struck her chin. Frustrated by the incident, Shafali angrily slammed the ball into the ground.

The ICC imposed the sanction for breaching Article 2.2 of its Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. The provision covers inappropriate or violent conduct involving cricket equipment, clothing or other items of field equipment during an international match.

Shafali accepted the sanction imposed by match referee GS Lakshmi, avoiding the need for a formal hearing. It was her first offence within a 24-month period, resulting in one demerit point being added to her disciplinary record.

Despite the fielding error, Shafali played a decisive role in India’s victory with the bat. Chasing a modest target of 103, she smashed an unbeaten 55 off just 25 balls, helping India secure a comfortable win inside nine overs.