BBL 2018: Adam Voges handed one-match ban for slow over-rate

The Perth Scorchers' hopes of finishing at the summit of the BBL have been dealt a severe blow, as captain Adam Voges has been handed a one-game ban for slow over-rate, his second offence this season.

The Scorchers, who had been warned earlier in the week for slow over-rate against the Brisbane Heat, were one over short in their game against the Sydney Thunder. Voges, who led the side in both games, has therefore received an automatic one-match suspension in accordance with the BBL Playing Conditions.

In addition, each member of the Scorchers outfit has been handed a $1000 fine, which will be reduced to $500 if unappealed.

Voges is set to miss his side's game against league-leaders Adelaide Strikers on Saturday. The Scorchers will be short-handed, with Andrew Tye and Jhye Richardson also ruled out of the game due to national commitments.

Interestingly, Perth aren't the only team this season to have been hauled up for a slow over-rate. The Sydney Thunder, Melbourne Stars, Sydney Sixers and Hobart Hurricanes were all warned for a breach, with their respective skippers Shane Watson, John Hastings, Moises Henriques and George Bailey all receiving one strike. Bailey became the fifth captain to receive a strike after his side were found to be one over short in their game against the Brisbane Heat.

Scorchers paceman Mitchell Johnson, meanwhile, branded the decision to penalise captains a 'joke'.

What a joke this is becoming etc etc https://t.co/M3zDfKMe2P

— Mitchell Johnson (@MitchJohnson398) January 12, 2018