Daren Sammy Fined for DRS Criticism After West Indies-Australia Test

West Indies coach Daren Sammy (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

West Indies coach Daren Sammy has been penalized, receiving a fine equivalent to 15% of his match fee, for publicly criticizing TV umpire Adrian Holdstock. This occurred during the first Test against Australia in Barbados, following Sammy's expressions of concern about inconsistent Decision Review System (DRS) rulings on the second day of the match.

The 41-year-old Sammy, who was officiating his first Test as the West Indies' coach, faced sanctions after his post-play press conference where he raised questions regarding several contentious DRS decisions made at Kensington Oval.

The core of the controversy revolved around two caught behind decisions. The first involved Australia's Travis Head, who was initially ruled not out. The second concerned West Indies' Shai Hop, who was given out. Sammy also drew attention to contrasting lbw referrals concerning Roston Chase and Australia's Cameron Green.

"When there's doubt in something, just be consistent across the board," Sammy stated. "From the images that we're seeing, the decisions are not fair enough for both teams... I just want fairness."

Sammy admitted guilt to breaching the ICC's code of conduct by making inappropriate comments about a match official.

In a separate event, West Indies fast bowler Jayden Seales also faced a fine of 15% of his match fee for his send-off directed at Australian captain Pat Cummins on the first day of the match.

These disciplinary actions took place during a match where Australia clinched a 159-run victory, establishing a 1-0 lead in the series.

The teams are now set to travel to Grenada for the second Test, commencing on Thursday.