Brisbane Heat skipper Brendon McCullum has been suspended for one game after his team was found guilty of slow over rate during the loss to Perth Scorchers on Wednesday (January 11).

The Brisbane-based outfit completed their bowling innings in 96 minutes, six minutes ahead of the scheduled time, which is 90 minutes for completing the 20 overs.

This is the second time that Brendon McCullum’s side has been found guilty of slow over rate in the ongoing season of the Big Bash League, having been previously penalised this season for slow over rate against Hobart Hurricanes on December 30, as a result, the former New Zealand skipper will now miss the crucial game against Melbourne Stars. In his absence, Joe Burns will now lead the side.

The report released on the official BBL website also stated that the Heat have accepted the penalty.

As quoted on the website, Queensland Cricket Chief Executive Officer Max Walters said:“The Heat have shown that their style of attacking, exciting cricket really resonates with the fans and viewers all over the world and so it is disappointing for them that they will miss seeing one of the game’s best in action in Melbourne next week,”

“It is a shame but we accept those are the competition rules we are playing under and reminds us that we can continue to improve in all facets of the game.

“We’re confident the team will give a good account of itself against the Stars and continue to play bright, attacking T20 cricket.

“We’re sure Brendon and the team will rebound from this setback and finish the competition strongly.”

The Heat players were also fined $1000 but it was reduced to $500 after they accepted the verdict without appeal.