Mitchell Johnson and Ben Stokes found not guilty

Johnson and Stokes

Mitchell Johnson of Australia and England’s Ben Stokes have been found not guilty of breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the fourth day’s play in the second Test in Adelaide.

The two players had been charged after the close of play on Sunday under Article 2.2.4 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which refers to “inappropriate and deliberate physical contact between Players in the course of play during an International Match.”

After both players pleaded not guilty, separate hearings were held at the conclusion of the Test, following which Jeff Crowe of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees cleared them of the charges.

The incident happened in the 84th over of England’s second innings when the players collided as the England batsman was running to complete a run.

Explaining his decision, Mr Crowe said: “I am satisfied in respect of both players that their physical contact was not deliberate. Both players, however, could have done more to avoid each other and they have been so counseled.

“We do not condone physical contact, but recognize that on occasions such contact could be accidental.”

The charges were laid by on-field umpires Kumar Dharmasena and Marais Erasmus, third umpire Tony Hill and fourth umpire Simon Fry.

All Level 2 breaches carry a minimum penalty of a minimum fine of 50 per cent of applicable Match Fee and/or up to two (2) Suspension Points.