Jayden Seales Fined for Provocative Gesture in West Indies-Australia Test

West Indies fast bowler Jayden Seales has been sanctioned by the International Cricket Council (ICC), incurring a fine of 15% of his match fee. This penalty stems from a breach of the ICC's code of conduct during the first Test match against Australia in Barbados.

Jayden Seales (middle) on Day 1 of the first Test between West Indies and Australia. (AP)

The specific incident leading to the fine occurred when Seales, after dismissing Australian captain Pat Cummins at Kensington Oval, made a gesture directed towards the Australian dressing room.

The ICC determined that Seales violated Article 2.5 of their Code of Conduct. This article pertains to actions or gestures employed during an international match that could potentially provoke an aggressive response from a batter who has been dismissed.

When approached for comment following the day's play, Seales attempted to minimize the situation. He stated, "It did not really mean anything and it was more a bit of frustration. Pat hit a couple of good shots off me and I just showed him where the dressing room was and there wasn't really anything in it."

In addition to the financial penalty, Seales has been given one demerit point. This marks his second offense within a 24-month period, bringing his total to two demerit points during that time.

Despite the controversy surrounding Seales's conduct, the West Indies bowling attack demonstrated resilience on the second day of the Test against Australia.

The West Indies secured a narrow 10-run lead in the first innings, bolstered by a significant 67-run partnership for the sixth wicket. This partnership featured Shai Hope, who scored 48 runs, and captain Roston Chase, who contributed 44 runs.

Australia's second innings began uncertainly, reaching 92 for 4 wickets, giving them an overall lead of 82 runs. Seales added to his wicket tally by bowling out Josh Inglis for 12, claiming his sixth wicket of the match.

As the match progresses to day three, the contest remains delicately poised. Travis Head, with 13 runs, and Beau Webster, with 19 runs, are scheduled to resume batting for Australia.