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

Sammy Sanctioned for Umpire Outburst After Test Match

West Indies coach Daren Sammy has been penalized 15% of his match fee for publicly criticizing TV umpire Adrian Holdstock following the first Test against Australia in Barbados. The sanction stems from Sammy's expressed concerns about inconsistent Decision Review System (DRS) rulings during the second day of the match.

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

Sammy, 41, who was officiating his first Test as the West Indies' coach, faced repercussions after his post-match press conference. He openly questioned several contentious DRS decisions that occurred at Kensington Oval.

The controversy specifically revolved around two caught-behind decisions. One involved Australia's Travis Head, who was initially ruled not out, and the other concerned West Indies' Shai Hop, who was given out. Sammy also drew attention to contrasting lbw referrals involving 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, specifically regarding inappropriate comments made about a match official.

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

These disciplinary actions occurred during a match where Australia secured a decisive 159-run victory, giving them a 1-0 lead in the series.

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