Several Pakistani players lost their temper during their match against South Africa, engaging in sledging and aggressive behavior towards the opposition. As a result, three Pakistani cricketers—Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam—have been penalized by the ICC for breaching the Level-1 Code of Conduct.
On Thursday (February 13), the ICC announced sanctions against the trio for violating behavioral standards during the match.
Shaheen Afridi Fined 25% of Match Fee
Shaheen Afridi has been fined 25% of his match fee for violating Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct. The ICC stated:
“During an international match, no player, support staff, umpire, match referee, or any other person (including spectators) should be subjected to inappropriate physical contact.”The incident occurred during the 28th over of the third ODI of the tri-series against South Africa in Karachi, when Shaheen Afridi deliberately obstructed South African batter Matthew Breetzke while he was running between the wickets. This led to a heated face-off and verbal exchange between the two players.
Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam Fined 10% of Match Fee
In another incident during the 29th over, Saud Shakeel and substitute fielder Kamran Ghulam were fined 10% of their match fees each for violating Article 2.5 of the ICC Code of Conduct. After the run-out of South African captain Temba Bavuma, both players celebrated aggressively in close proximity to him.
According to the ICC, Article 2.5 prohibits:
“Using language, actions, or gestures directed at a batter upon their dismissal that could provoke an aggressive reaction.”Demerit Points Issued
In addition to the fines, all three players have received one demerit point each. This is their first demerit point in the past 24 months. Since Shaheen, Saud, and Kamran accepted the ICC’s sanctions, a formal hearing was not required.
