1. PREAMBLE

The TDCA is committed to promoting cricket in a professional, respectful, and disciplined manner. This Code of Conduct defines the expected standards of behavior for all players, officials, umpires, and members representing TDCA in any capacity. The aim is to uphold the spirit of cricket, ensure fair play, and maintain dignity both on and off the field.

2. APPLICABILITY

This Code applies to:

• All registered players representing TDCA or its affiliated clubs.
• All office bearers, executive committee members, and subcommittee members.
• Coaches, umpires, scorers, and support staff engaged in TDCA activities.
• Any individual representing TDCA in events, meetings, or online platforms.

3. CORE VALUES

TDCA expects every member to embody the following values:

• Integrity – Always act with honesty and fairness.
• Respect – Treat teammates, opponents, umpires, and officials with dignity.
• Accountability – Take responsibility for one's behavior and actions.
• Team Spirit – Work collaboratively towards TDCA's vision.
• Excellence – Strive for continuous improvement in performance and conduct.

4. ON-FIELD CODE OF CONDUCT

4.1. General Behavior

• Respect umpires' decisions at all times.
• Avoid any form of verbal abuse, offensive gestures, or unsporting behavior.
• Do not question or challenge umpire decisions in public.
• Follow all TDCA and TNCA playing regulations and match procedures.

4.2. Dress and Equipment

• Players must wear proper cricket attire and footwear.
• Team captains are responsible for ensuring uniform compliance.

4.3. Punctuality and Participation

• All players must report to the ground at least 30 minutes before the match start time.
• Repeated late arrivals may result in disciplinary action.
• Withdrawal from a match without prior notice to the captain or TDCA may lead to penalties.

4.4. Respect for Facilities

• Grounds, pavilions, and facilities must be kept clean and undamaged.
• Any intentional damage to property will result in suspension and compensation recovery.

5. OFF-FIELD CONDUCT

5.1. Respect and Integrity

• All members must maintain professional and courteous behavior toward each other.
• Avoid gossip, rumor-spreading, or defamation of fellow members or officials.
• TDCA will not tolerate discrimination based on race, caste, religion, gender, or background.

5.2. During Meetings or Forums

• Maintain decorum, patience, and respect for the Chairperson and other members.
• Avoid interrupting, shouting, or using unparliamentarily language.
• All decisions taken collectively by the Executive Committee must be respected.
• Confidential discussions in meetings should not be shared outside the forum.

6. SOCIAL MEDIA AND PUBLIC COMMUNICATION POLICY

6.1. Responsible Use

• Members must use all official communication platforms, including WhatsApp and social media, responsibly and respectfully.
• Derogatory comments, personal attacks, or inflammatory posts against TDCA, its members, umpires, or players are strictly prohibited.
• Official WhatsApp groups shall be used only for relevant cricket-related communication — avoid forwarding unrelated or political content.
• Members are expected to uphold the reputation of TDCA while posting or commenting on any public forum or media platform.
• Any violation of this code on digital platforms will invite disciplinary action, including suspension or removal from the group.

6.2. Media Representation

• No member shall speak to the media or issue public statements on behalf of TDCA without written authorization from the Hon. Secretary.
• Any official announcement shall be made only by TDCA office bearers.

7. ANTI-HARASSMENT AND ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY

TDCA follows a zero-tolerance approach to:

• Sexual harassment or misconduct.
• Bullying, intimidation, or physical abuse.
• Use of alcohol or drugs before or during matches.
• Gambling or match-fixing activities.

Any member found guilty of such behavior will face immediate suspension and possible reporting to law enforcement authorities.

8. DISCIPLINARY PROCESS AND ACTIONS

8.1. Reporting a Violation

• Any player, umpire, or official may report misconduct or violation in writing to the TDCA Disciplinary Committee.
• Complaints must include evidence or witness statements wherever possible.

8.2. Investigation Procedure

• The Disciplinary Committee will review the report within 7 working days.
• The Player will be given a chance to explain or defend before a decision is made.
• The Committee's recommendation will be forwarded to the Executive Committee for final action.

8.3. Disciplinary Actions (Depending on Severity)

9. APPEAL PROCESS

• Any member who disagrees with a disciplinary action may submit a written appeal within 10 days of receiving the order.
• The appeal will be reviewed by the TDCA Executive Committee.
• The Committee's decision shall be final and binding.

10. COMMITMENT STATEMENT

All members, players, and officials of TDCA must sign an acknowledgment form stating:

"I have read, understood, and agree to abide by the TDCA Code of Conduct Manual. I shall uphold the spirit of cricket and the integrity of the Thoothukudi District Cricket Association at all times."

11. IMPLEMENTATION AND REVIEW

• The Code of Conduct shall come into effect from the date of Executive Committee approval.
• It will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to align with TNCA guidelines or evolving best practices.

12. CONCLUSION

This manual represents TDCA's commitment to discipline, respect, and professionalism — ensuring that cricket in Thoothukudi District is played and administered with integrity, passion, and pride.