New Zealand Test player Henry Nicholls faces ball-tampering charges after umpire reports during a Plunket Shield match, with a video allegedly showing him brushing the ball against a helmet.
Following umpire reports of ball-tampering during a domestic first-class match, New Zealand Test player Henry Nicholls faces charges for violating New Zealand Cricket’s code of conduct, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. A video revealed Nicholls allegedly brushing the ball against a helmet during a change of ends. The charge is for violating New Zealand Cricket’s code of conduct, specifically Rule 3.1, article 1.15, related to changing the ball’s condition, breaching Law 41.3 of the Laws of Cricket.
“Nicholls has been reported for allegedly breaching Rule 3.1, article 1.15 of the Code during Day 3 of the Plunket Shield match between Canterbury and Auckland at Hagley Oval,” a statement by New Zealand Cricket read.
Here is the Henry Nicholls rubbing the ball on the helmet incident. pic.twitter.com/jwaliBIFYA
— Vincent Jones (@JonesVincentt) November 10, 2023
New Zealand Cricket further stated the allegation is referred to a commissioner for first-class cricket, with no set hearing date. Nicholls, set to tour Bangladesh with the New Zealand Test squad, has not commented on the charge.
Leading Canterbury to an eight-wicket victory against Auckland, Nicholls played a pivotal role by scoring 120 in the first innings as Canterbury declared at 413 for 9. Auckland managed 217 in their first innings. In the second innings, chasing a target of 61, Nicholls remained unbeaten at 30 as Canterbury secured the win with the loss of two wickets.
Notably, while Nicholls excelled in domestic cricket, New Zealand’s key limited-overs players are currently participating in the ICC World Cup 2023 in India. A recent victory over Sri Lanka has bolstered New Zealand’s chances of reaching the semifinals in the tournament.
Last Updated on November 10, 2023
Senior Sports Copywriter
