The curious case of Rabada's unusual celebrations!
What's the story
Kagiso Rabada can no longer play a part in the ongoing Test series against Australia, after he was handed a two-match suspension. The number two bowler in Test cricket was found guilty of a level 2 'Code of Conduct' offence and was awarded 3 demerit points. Rabada's physical contact with Smith was the reason behind it. Here, we list Rabada's previous tryst with indiscipline.
Twitter Post
Was the shoulder rub intentional?
Player of the Match Kagiso Rabada speaking after play and before news of his two-Test ban was confirmed #SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/bL3sf5wErI
— cricket.com.au (@CricketAus) March 12, 2018
Foul language
Rabada had earned a demerit point for Warner's send-off
Rabada was also pulled up for the send-off he gave to David Warner, in the same match on Sunday. The 22-year-old speedster was found guilty of "using language, actions or gestures which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batsman upon his or her dismissal." He was handed a demerit point.
Data
8 demerit points lead to suspension from 2 Tests
Rabada, who plays aggressive brand of cricket, has accumulated 9 demerit points in 24 months. According to the ICC rules, 8 points lead to a two-Test match suspension. If now, he adds 4 more points to his kitty, he would be suspended for 3 Tests.
Unnecessary
Rabada was also pulled up for Dhawan send-off
In the recently concluded India vs South Africa ODI series, Rabada was pulled up by the ICC for the inappropriate send-off he gave to Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan at St George's park. Rabada bagged in-form Dhawan's wicket and while the batsman was leaving the youngster used foul language which earned him one demerit point.
Twitter Post
Rabada's gives an unruly send-off once again
What do you think of Kagiso Rabada sending off Dhawan? pic.twitter.com/ZaAb3emr4m
— Grit Sports® (@Grit_Sports) February 13, 2018
Data
Rabada earned his first 3 demerit points against Sri Lanka
Rabada accumulated his first demerit points in February 2017. In a similar incident to what Rabada did with Steven Smith, he and Sri Lankan batsman Niroshan Dickwella "collided" on-field. Rabada was handed 3 demerit points.
Trouble maker
Rabada was suspended for cursing Ben Stokes
Rabada did not take his first 3 demerit points seriously and was pulled up again in July 2017 when he 'cursed' England all-rounder Ben Stokes, after bagging his wicket during the first Test at Lord's. ICC handed Rabada his fourth demerit point, and as a result, he missed the second Test at Trent Bridge.