New Zealand Batsman Henry Nicholls Charged with Ball-Tampering

Auckland: New Zealand Test player Henry Nicholls has been charged with violating New Zealand Cricket’s code of conduct following a ball-tampering incident in a recent Plunket Shield match between Canterbury and Auckland. The incident, reported by umpires, involves an alleged breach of Rule 3.1, article 1.15, changing the condition of the ball in violation of Law 41.3 of the Laws of Cricket.

New Zealand Cricket released a statement confirming the charge and stated that the complaint has been referred to a first-class cricket commissioner. The hearing is yet to be scheduled. Despite the accusation, Nicholls is set to join the New Zealand Test squad on their upcoming tour of Bangladesh later this month. As of now, Nicholls has not responded to the charges.

In the Plunket Shield match, Nicholls played a crucial role in Canterbury’s eight-wicket victory, scoring 120 in the first innings as they declared at 413 for 9. Auckland was bowled out for 217 in their first innings. When Canterbury set a winning target of 61, Nicholls contributed an unbeaten 30 in the chase for the loss of two wickets.

Meanwhile, New Zealand’s top limited-overs players are currently in India for the ICC World Cup 2023. A recent win over Sri Lanka has brought the 2019 runners-up closer to securing a spot in the semifinals.