Australian spinner Nathan Lyon was charged by the ICC for his involvement in the run out of AB de Villiers during the second innings of South Africa in the 1st Test at Durban.
Lyon ran out De Villiers and after dislodging the bails, intentionally dropped the ball on the batsman, who was on the ground. The ball grazed the chest of the batsman, who had dived to try and make it back in the crease.
Lyon has been charged with a Level 1 breach, which could see the off-spinner fined up to 50 percent of his match. He might also be given two demerit points, which will be added to his record. If he accumulates four points, he will be suspended for a Test match.
Here is the video:
Pure cheek from Nathan Lyon ???????????? #SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/vhuM4tgOHQ
— Josh Money (@JoshMoneyFOX) March 4, 2018
According to a Cricket Australia spokesperson, Lyon got in touch with AB de Villiers and apologized and said that there was no malice intended.
Former South Africa skipper Graeme Smith said, “The Aussies were pretty fired up at that time pushing for a victory. But he (Lyon) is an experienced cricketer.I think he’ll probably say it was unnecessary himself.”