India fast bowler Arshdeep Singh has been fined 15% of his match fee by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after an on-field incident involving New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 final.
The incident occurred during the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where India defeated New Zealand to secure the title. In addition to the financial penalty, Arshdeep was also handed one demerit point, marking his first offence within a 24-month period.
The sanction followed a breach of Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to inappropriate use of equipment during an international match.
The fast bowler was found to have breached Article 2.9 of the Code of Conduct, which relates to “throwing a ball (or any other item of cricket equipment) at or near a player in an inappropriate and/or dangerous manner during an International Match.”
Incident took place during New Zealand’s chase
The moment unfolded in the 11th over of New Zealand’s innings. After Mitchell played the ball back towards the bowler, Arshdeep collected it on his follow-through and threw it back toward the stumps.
The throw struck Mitchell on the thigh pads, briefly escalating tensions between the two players. Mitchell reacted by approaching the Indian pacer, leading to a short on-field confrontation before the situation was quickly defused.
India Captain Suryakumar Yadav intervened to calm both players, while the umpires stepped in to ensure the incident did not escalate further.
Following the over, Arshdeep approached Mitchell and the two exchanged words, with the Indian bowler later clarifying there was no malicious intent behind the throw.
ICC confirms sanction and disciplinary action
The disciplinary process was handled by Andy Pycroft of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees.
The ICC release stated: “Arshdeep accepted the sanction proposed by Andy Pycroft of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, so there was no need for a formal hearing. On-field umpires Richard Illingworth and Alex Wharf, third umpire Allahuddien Paleker and fourth umpire Adrian Holdstock levelled the charge.”
Level 1 breaches under the ICC Code of Conduct typically carry penalties ranging from an official reprimand to 50% of a player’s match fee, along with one or two demerit points.
Arshdeep clarifies intention after match
After India’s victory in the final, Arshdeep addressed the moment while speaking to broadcaster Harsha Bhogle, insisting the throw was accidental.
“My throw reverse-swung a bit too much, and it hit his body, so I told him that I didn’t hit him intentionally,” Arshdeep said.
The pacer’s explanation and acceptance of the sanction ensured that the matter was resolved without a formal disciplinary hearing.
India seal dominant T20 World Cup triumph
The incident occurred during what ultimately proved to be a commanding performance from India in the tournament final.
Batting first, India posted a massive 255/5 in 20 overs, powered by half-centuries from Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan.
New Zealand were unable to keep pace with the required run rate, eventually being bowled out for 159, with Jasprit Bumrah leading the attack with a four-wicket haul.
The emphatic 96-run victory secured India’s third T20 World Cup title and made them the first team to successfully defend the championship, while also winning the tournament on home soil.
