Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam has been fined by the ICC after he breached the Code of Conduct during the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi. The former captain admitted to the offence and accepted the penalty without challenging it.
What Exactly Happened?
The incident took place in the 21st over of Pakistan’s innings.
Babar, who was dismissed for 34 off 52 balls, reacted in frustration by striking the stumps with his bat. The gesture immediately fell under the ICC’s misconduct category.
Why Was He Penalised?
According to the ICC, Babar violated Article 2.2, which relates to:
“Abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment, or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.”
For this, he has been:
- Fined 10% of his match fee
- Given one demerit point on his disciplinary record
(This is his first offence in a 24-month period.)
Match Referee Ali Naqvi handed the sanction, which Babar accepted—avoiding the need for a formal hearing.
What Do ICC Rules Say?
Level 1 breaches under the ICC Code of Conduct carry:
- A minimum of an official reprimand
- A maximum fine of 50% of the match fee
- One or two demerit points
If a player collects four demerit points within 24 months, they convert into suspension points, resulting in a ban:
- 2 suspension points = 1 Test OR 2 ODIs OR 2 T20Is
Demerit points automatically expire after two years.
Context: Babar’s Recent Form
Interestingly, the punishment comes just days after Babar returned to top form, ending his century drought with a brilliant unbeaten 102 in the second ODI.
He also claimed the Player of the Match award in Pakistan’s successful chase of 289.
Catch every update on Cricket News, Match Predictions, Fantasy Tips, and Live Cricket Action—only on The Cricket Scores!
