Breaking News: AB de Villiers banned for rest of series

I have just come across an article on the ICC website outlining that AB de Villiers, as captain, has been suspended for two ODI's due to slow over-rates. It was ruled by ICC referee David Boon that South Africa were 6 overs short in their bowling innings. Therefore as a serious over-rate offence, the captain receives two suspension points, which equates to a 1 Test or 2 ODI suspension. (whatever is relevant) The South African playing XI have also had 100% of their match fees suspended. The rules state that they will be fined 10% for the first two overs, and then 20% for every additional over late after that.

This is definitely one of the heftiest punishments for over-rate offences in recent history. It is not often that players have their whole fee suspended. Nonetheless I believe that these punishments are adequate. One of the main bugs of watching cricket is how long the match takes. Cricket needs to be flowing and continuous as much as possible to maintain interest with the crowd and television audiences. To be 6 overs short (after time allowances were taken into consideration) is deplorable, thereby making these suspensions necessary.

More details: http://www.icc-cricket.com/newsdetails.php?newsId=22596_1358669280