Mlaba Punished for Unsporting Gesture at Harleen Deol
South Africa’s left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba has been reprimanded for an inappropriate gesture towards Indian batter Harleen Deol during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 in Visakhapatnam. The incident took place in the 17th over when Mlaba dismissed Deol and waved goodbye, which prompted action from the match officials.
Mlaba was found guilty of violating Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which relates to “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match.” The ICC handed her a formal reprimand and one demerit point, marking her first offence in the past 24 months.
Mlaba’s Performance Stands Out Despite Controversy
Although the spinner faced disciplinary action, Mlaba continues to shine with the ball in the ongoing tournament. She has picked up six wickets in three matches so far. Her 2/46 spell was crucial in South Africa’s three-wicket win over India, a match that shifted the momentum of their campaign.
The 10th clash of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 turned into a tense thriller. South Africa fought back strongly after early setbacks. Nadine de Klerk’s composed half-century anchored the innings and kept the chase on track. Her knock helped the Proteas chase down India’s 252-run target with one over to spare.
India’s First Defeat of the Tournament
The defeat was India’s first in the competition. It pushed South Africa into the top four on the points table, behind only Australia, England, and India. The Proteas now have a four-day break before they face Bangladesh in another crucial clash in Visakhapatnam.
South Africa Squad: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Sune Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nondumiso Shangase, Chloe Tryon
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