R Ashwin's error costs team India 5 runs penalty in IND vs ENG Rajkot test

• R Ashwin's error in running on the pitch costs Team India a five-run penalty in the Rajkot Test against England
• The penalty, imposed under MCC's 'Unfair Play Law,' occurred during the 102nd over of India's first innings
• England to begin their innings with 5/0 on the scoreboard due to the penalty

On Day 2 of the ongoing third Test between India and England at Rajkot's Niranjan Shah Stadium, Team India faced a setback as a five-run penalty was imposed for an error committed by R Ashwin. The penalty was a result of the off-spinner running in the middle of the pitch during the 102nd over of India's first innings, violating the 'Unfair Play Law' of MCC Rules and Regulations. Consequently, England will commence their innings with 5/0 on the scoreboard.

The incident mirrored a warning issued to all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja on Day 1 of the Rajkot Test for a similar offense. Ashwin, facing a full-toss delivery, hit the ball to the cover region and attempted a single. However, he ended up running in the protected area, prompting on-field umpire Joel Wilson to penalize Team India with a five-run penalty.

This MCC rule under 'Unfair Play Law' states that if a player enters the protected area and fails to move away, it will be deemed as damaging the pitch. The law further mandates that if a player doesn't return to the original end, the umpire awards a five-run penalty to the fielding side. Consequently, England will kickstart their first innings with 5/0 on the board, as confirmed on-air during the match broadcast.