In the third Test match of the series, England defeated India by 22 runs at Lord's on Monday to gain a 2-1 advantage. However, they were penalized two World Test Championship points for their sluggish over rate in that match. Additionally, the home team was assessed a penalty of 10% of the game fee after the match. Former England captain Michael Vaughan, however, took issue with the ICC's behavior and subtly hinted at bias in the apex organization while also wondering why India got away without being punished.

England received two WTC penalty points from the ICC on Wednesday for a slow over-rate in the Lord's Test. A side receives one penalty point for each over short, taking into account time allowances, according to Article 16.11.2 of the ICC World Test Championship playing conditions.

After the deduction, England's WTC score decreased from 24 to 22 out of 36, indicating a drop in their point percentage from 66.67% to 61.11%. With Sri Lanka taking their place, England's position in the rankings fell from second to third, which made matters worse for the nation.

In Lord's over-rate, Vaughan believed that both teams were equally at fault. However, since just England was punished, he was at a loss as to why India was spared.

"Let's be honest, the over rates of both teams at Lords were really bad. I can't understand how only one team has received a reprimand...#ENGvsIND," he posted on X. 

The players were also assessed a 10% penalty on their match costs, in addition to England losing WTC points. In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with minimum over-rate offenses, players are penalized five percent of their match charge for each over their side does not deliver within the allotted period.

Richie Richardson of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the penalties, which Stokes admitted and accepted.

Next week, Manchester will host the fourth Test of the five-game series.

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