Leicestershire docked 27 points for pitch breach

Leicestershire has been docked 27 points for breaching ECB pitch regulations during its August win over Glamorgan. The Cricket Discipline Panel imposed the penalty midway through the Foxes' penultimate match after rating the Grace Road surface poor. The club forfeited the 19 points earned in the 42-run victory and received an additional eight-point deduction plus a £5,000 fine.

Head groundsman Callum Lewin told the tribunal that extreme heat reaching 35 degrees and an unscheduled Bollywood filming event four days before the match prevented proper preparation. Leicestershire, promoted as Division Two champions last season, can appeal within 10 working days. A further eight-point deduction has been suspended for 12 months.

The Foxes trail Hampshire by 225 runs on the second day of their ongoing match at Grace Road. Defeat will confirm relegation to Division Two after just one season back in the top flight.