ICC Fines Pakistani Players for Code Breaches: During a tense tri-nation series match against South Africa in Karachi, three Pakistani players—Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam—faced disciplinary action for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct. The incidents, that occurred during the match, have resulted in fines and demerit points for the players, highlighting the importance of maintaining discipline on the field.
Leading the list of offenders was Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, who was fined 25% of his match fee for violating Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct. This rule prohibits “inappropriate physical contact with players, support staff, umpires, or any other individuals during an international match.”
The incident unfolded in the 28th over of South Africa’s innings. Shaheen was seen intentionally blocking batter Matthew Breetzke as he attempted to take a single, leading to an unnecessary physical clash. The confrontation quickly escalated into a verbal spat, drawing the attention of the umpires. While the situation was eventually defused, the match officials deemed Shaheen’s actions a clear breach of the code, resulting in a fine and one demerit point added to his record.
In another incident during the 29th over, South African batter Temba Bavuma was run out, sparking an exuberant celebration from Saud Shakeel and substitute fielder Kamran Ghulam. However, their actions crossed the line when they celebrated too close to Bavuma, a move that was seen as disrespectful and potentially inflammatory. This behavior violated Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which addresses “using language, actions, or gestures that could provoke or disparage a batter after their dismissal.”
As a result, both Saud and Kamran were fined 10% of their match fees and handed one demerit point each. While their excitement was understandable, the proximity and nature of their celebration were deemed inappropriate, prompting the sanctions.
All three players acknowledged their mistakes and accepted the penalties imposed by David Boon, a member of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees. This acceptance meant that no formal hearings were necessary. The charges were brought forward by on-field umpires Asif Yaqoob and Michael Gough, with third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi also involved in the decision-making process.
Under the ICC’s disciplinary framework, Level 1 breaches typically result in a reprimand, a fine of up to 50% of the player’s match fee, and one or two demerit points. The penalties handed to the Pakistani players were consistent with the nature of their offenses.
These incidents underscore the need for players to maintain composure and respect during high-pressure moments in international cricket. While the heat of competition can sometimes lead to lapses in judgment, the ICC Code of Conduct exists to ensure that the spirit of the game is preserved.
For Shaheen, Saud, and Kamran, this marks their first disciplinary offense within a 24-month period, meaning their records remain relatively clean. However, repeated violations could lead to harsher penalties, including suspensions, which could impact their careers and the team’s performance.
As the tri-nation series continues, the Pakistani team will need to regroup and focus on maintaining discipline both on and off the field. The fines and demerit points serve as a timely reminder that while passion and intensity are integral to cricket, they must always be balanced with respect and professionalism.
