Brisbane Heat bowler Amelia Kerr took the towel to grab the ball and was immediately given five penalty runs that proved crucial in the game against the Sixers
In the ongoing Women's Big Bash League in Australia, Brisbane Heat faced Sydney Sixers in one of the league encounters. Asked to bat first, Brisbane posted a massive 176/7 in 20 overs, with Kiwi Amelia Kerr top-scoring with 64 runs. In reply, Sydney Sixers chased down the target with minimal ease. (IND Vs AUS Scorecard | More Cricket News)
However, the game will be remembered for an unusual incident that took place on the field. Brisbane were charged with five penalty runs after Amelia grabbed the ball with her towel in hand.
The incident took place during the 10th over in the second innings. Aussie batter Ashleigh Gardner played a shot down to long-on and ran a single. The fielder collected the ball and threw it back to Amelia, who grabbed it with a towel, at the non-striker's end.
Seeing this, the on-field umpired immediately took note and signaled a five-run penalty on Brisbane Heat for this offence.
As per the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) rules, "No fielder other than the wicket-keeper shall be permitted to wear gloves or external leg guards. In addition, protection for the hand or fingers may be worn only with the consent of the umpires."
If a fielder uses "his/her clothing with his/her hands and uses this to field the ball", then the umpire shall "award 5 Penalty runs to the batting side."