Karachi [Pakistan]: Pakistan has been fined five per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate in their Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand in Karachi.
ICC’s Statement and Penalty
The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed the penalty, stating that Pakistan was found to be one over short of the required target after considering time allowances.
Match referee Andy Pycroft imposed the fine following a charge leveled by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Sharfuddoula, third umpire Joel Wilson, and fourth umpire Alex Wharf. Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan pleaded guilty, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.
As per Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for each over their team falls short of completing within the stipulated time.
Pakistan’s Tough Start in Champions Trophy
Hosting a global cricket event for the first time in three decades, Pakistan faced a setback as New Zealand secured a dominant 60-run victory in the opening match.
Now, the hosts find themselves in a must-win situation as they prepare for a high-stakes clash against arch-rivals India on Sunday in Dubai.
Fakhar Zaman Ruled Out Due to Injury
Adding to Pakistan’s woes, explosive opener Fakhar Zaman has been ruled out of the tournament due to an injury sustained while fielding against New Zealand.
The incident occurred when Will Young drove a delivery from Shaheen Afridi through the covers. Zaman sprinted to stop the ball, managed to palm it back to Babar Azam, but immediately clutched his lower back in pain. Though he briefly returned to the field, he was eventually substituted.
The ICC Event Technical Committee, which includes Wasim Khan, Usman Wahla, Sarah Edgar, and Shaun Pollock, has approved Imam-ul-Haq as Zaman’s replacement.
What’s Next for Pakistan?
With a crucial match against India coming up, Pakistan must regroup quickly and overcome these challenges to keep their Champions Trophy hopes alive.