• Delhi Capitals batter Lizelle Lee was sanctioned after breaching code of conduct during umpire dispute.

  • DC crushed Mumbai Indians to a comfortable win by 7 wickets in WPL 2026 clash.

WPL 2026: Delhi Capitals’ Lizelle Lee penalised with fine and demerit point following umpire confrontation over her controversial dismissal
Delhi Capitals’ Lizelle Lee penalised with fine and demerit point following umpire confrontation over her controversial dismissal (Image source: X)

witnessed a high-octane clash on January 20, as Delhi Capitals (DC) Women faced off against Mumbai Indians (MI) Women in the 13th match of the season at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara. While DC secured a convincing 7-wicket victory to bolster their standings, the match was marred by a heated exchange between opener Lizelle Lee and the match officials. Despite the triumph, Lee’s aggressive reaction to a controversial dismissal has resulted in formal disciplinary action from the league.

In a chase of 155, DC looked comfortable until the 11th over, when Lee was dismissed for a blistering 46 off 28 balls. The South African powerhouse, who has been a revelation this season with 213 runs at a strike rate of 154.35, fell victim to a divisive stumping decision. After hitting Amanjot Kaur for a six, Lee lost her balance on a subsequent delivery down the leg side. While she appeared to grounded her bat quickly, the third umpire, after extensive deliberation across multiple angles, ruled that her bat was marginally in the air when Rahila Firdous whipped off the bails.

Lizelle Lee handed fine and demerit point for clash with umpire after questionable dismissal

The decision sparked immediate outrage from Lee. As the “OUT” signal flashed on the big screen, the 33-year-old engaged in an animated and lengthy confrontation with umpire Rathi. Clearly livid, Lee’s departure from the field was anything but quiet, as she continued to express her frustration regarding the technicalities of the stumping. The irony of the situation was not lost on spectators, as Lee has previously expressed a desire to pursue umpiring as a career path following her retirement from professional cricket.

This outburst did not go unnoticed by the match referee. Following the game, a media advisory confirmed that Lee had been penalized for a Level 1 offense under Article 2.2 of the WPL Code of Conduct. This specific article pertains to the abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings. As a result, Lee has been fined 10% of her match fee and handed one demerit point.

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Jemimah Rodrigues steers Delhi capitals to a clinical win

Despite the mid-innings drama, Delhi Capitals remained composed to chase down the target with six balls to spare. The foundation was laid by a solid 63-run opening stand between Lee and the explosive Shafali Verma. Following their departures, skipper Jemimah Rodrigues took charge of the pursuit. Rodrigues anchored the innings with a masterclass in gap-finding and strike rotation, finishing with an unbeaten 51 off 37 balls. Her captain’s knock ensured DC reached 155/3 in the 19th over, earning her the Player of the Match award.

The victory is a significant statement for Delhi, especially as Lee has successfully filled the massive void left by former captain . However, with one demerit point now on her record, Lee will need to temper her on-field reactions in the coming fixtures to avoid more severe suspensions.

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This article was first published at , a Cricket Times company.

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About the Author:
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on , , and .