The ODI series opener between India and South Africa in Ranchi was a close and exciting match. The result came down to the final over, and India won by 17 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Fast bowler Harshit Rana was one of the key players in India’s win, but he has now received a penalty from the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Rana has been given a warning for breaking Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct. He also received one demerit point on his record. This is his first offence in the last two years. The ICC said Rana broke Article 2.5, which deals with using words, actions, or gestures that may insult or provoke a batter after their dismissal in an international match.

The Indian pacer was found guilty of breaking Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct. This rule covers the use of words, actions, or gestures that can insult a batter or provoke them after they are dismissed in an international match.

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🚨 STATEMENT BY ICC 🚨

Harshit Rana receives a reprimand for an incident involving South Africa batter Dewald Brevis. pic.twitter.com/CxIP6CNQpt

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 3, 2025

Rana’s Gesture Sparks ICC Action

The incident happened in the 22nd over of South Africa’s chase. After dismissing Dewald Brevis, Rana made a gesture toward the dressing room that could have triggered an aggressive response from the batter.

Rana accepted the charge and agreed to the penalty suggested by match referee Richie Richardson from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel, so a formal hearing was not required.

The charge was filed by on-field umpires Jayaraman Madanagopal and Sam Nogajski, along with third umpire Rod Tucker and fourth umpire Rohan Pandit.

A Level 1 offence can lead to an official warning at minimum, or up to 50% of the player’s match fee being deducted, along with one or two demerit points.