Debutant batter Sam Konstas shone in his maiden appearance during the highly-anticipated Boxing Day Test against India at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
In his first international outing, Konstas scored a brilliant 60 runs off just 65 balls against a formidable Indian attack, featuring Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
The right-hander was dismissed lbw by orthodox spinner Ravindra Jadeja in the 20th over. After returning to the dressing room, Konstas was seen chatting with the official broadcasters and later spotted taking pictures with fans at the ‘G’. This act may land him in trouble.
According to the ICC’s playing conditions and rules, players and match officials are prohibited from leaving the designated Players and Match Officials Area (PMOA) without obtaining proper permission from the concerned authorities.
Moreover, the use or possession of mobile devices or any internet-connected devices by players or match officials during an active match is strictly prohibited.
“Communication devices are prohibited within the PMOA, barring specific exceptions. No player shall be in possession of, or use a communication device (such as a mobile phone or a device connected to the internet) while in the PMOA,” the ICC standards state.
“Failure to comply with PMOA regulations may result in financial penalties,” the rule concludes. Since 19-year-old Konstas allegedly breached these protocols, he is likely to be questioned and, if found guilty, may face a monetary sanction.
According to the ICC Anti-Corruption Minimum Standards for Players and Match Officials Areas (PMOA), “Express permission is required to leave the PMOA during the match from the Anti-Corruption Manager (ACM); or, where the ACM is unavailable, the relevant team manager or Match Referee (in the case of a Match Official) who must notify the ACM at the earliest opportunity.”