Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam Fined by ICC for Code of Conduct Breach
Pakistan Trio Penalized for On-Field Misconduct
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has imposed fines on Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam for violating the ICC Code of Conduct during Pakistan’s tri-series match against South Africa. The three players received monetary penalties and a demerit point each for their actions on the field.
Shaheen Afridi Fined for Physical Obstruction
Pakistan‘s pace spearhead, Shaheen Afridi, was fined 25% of his match fee for breaching Article 2.12 of the ICC Code, which deals with inappropriate physical contact during an international match. The incident occurred in the 28th over of South Africa’s innings when Afridi deliberately obstructed batter Matthew Breetzke while he was running a single. This led to physical contact and a heated exchange between the two players, prompting immediate intervention from the on-field umpires.
Shakeel and Ghulam Also Penalized
Middle-order batter Saud Shakeel and all-rounder Kamran Ghulam were also fined 10% of their match fees for their involvement in unsportsmanlike conduct during the game. While their offenses were less severe than Afridi’s, the ICC deemed their behavior inappropriate, warranting disciplinary action.
ICC’s Stand on Player Discipline
The ICC remains firm on maintaining the spirit of cricket and ensuring on-field discipline. Repeated breaches can lead to stricter penalties, suspensions, or further demerit points. Pakistan’s team management will now need to ensure better control over players’ conduct to avoid future sanctions.
