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South Africa’s rising left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba faced a stern rebuke from the ICC on Saturday. India’s Harleen Deol was slammed for “waving goodbye” after her dismissal in a thrilling Women’s ODI World Cup clash on Thursday. The 25-year-old Mlaba’s spirited farewell display, which was deemed potentially provocative, was deemed a Level 1 breach of the ICC Code of Conduct, resulting in one demerit point being added to his account – his first in two years.

The drama began in the 17th over at the Dr PVG Raju Andhra Cricket Association Stadium, where Mlaba’s fast and spin ball, bowled at 74.6 kmph, dismissed Deol for 13 (23 balls, 1 four), shattering the stumps and India’s top order. As Deol walked off the field, Mlaba’s playful hand gesture infuriated the umpires, causing a breach of Article 2.5: “Using language, actions or gestures which insult or provoke an offensive reaction when the batsman is out.” Mlaba, who admitted the breach, avoided a formal hearing after accepting match referee Trudy Anderson’s punishment—no penalty, only a reprimand and demerit.

On-field umpires Jacqueline Williams and Kim Cotton, along with third umpire Candice du Preez and fourth umpire Sue Redfearn, filed the charge. “Level 1 violations may result in a reprimand, a match fee reduction of up to 50% and 1-2 demerit points,” the ICC said, underscoring the spirit of cricket at major women’s tournaments.

Mlaba’s blunder hardly detracted from his World Cup charm: a brilliant 2/46 bowled out India for 238, paving the way for South Africa’s thrilling three-wicket win (target of 239) thanks to a brilliant performance from Nadine de Klerk – her first ODI century. Mlaba’s best performances of the tournament so far: six wickets at 15.83 in three matches, including a four-wicket haul, established him as South Africa’s leader of spin. South Africa’s win – chasing the target with balls remaining – led to India’s first defeat, increasing the pressure ahead of the clash against Australia on October 12.

Deol scored 107 runs (average 70.39) in three matches without any hesitation, symbolizing India’s strong middle-order. Mlaba’s actions, sparked by the intensity of the match, sparked debate online: harmless nature or contrary to the spirit of the game? As the World Cup heats up—with 10 teams in India vying for the title—moments like these are a reminder: Passion shouldn’t get out of hand. South Africa top the table with two consecutive wins; India is in shock, and is eyeing a comeback.

Experts appreciate the ICC’s measured response, which has struck a balance of discipline and encouragement for young talents like Mlaba (23 Tests, 45 ODIs). With Bangladesh next clashing with England and the hosts, expect even tougher matches—but even better sportsmanship.