ICC Penalises Pakistan for Slow Over-Rate During Sri Lanka ODI
The International Cricket Council (ICC) penalised the Pakistan cricket team for its slow over-rate during the first One-Day International (ODI) against Sri Lanka. The incident occurred on November 11 in Rawalpindi, following a match Pakistan won by a narrow margin. This sanction underscores the ICC’s commitment to maintaining game pace in international cricket.
Penalty for Over-Rate Infraction
Pakistan was fined 20% of their match fee after being found four overs short of their target within the allotted time, even after taking allowances into consideration. This decision was formally announced on a Thursday, as the cricketing body maintained its stringent approach towards minimum over-rate offences.
The sanction was imposed by Ali Naqvi, a member of the ICC Panel of Match Referees. He acted in accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which specifically addresses such infringements. Under these regulations, players face a 5% fine of their match fee for every over their side fails to complete within the stipulated timeframe.
The charge was brought forward by the on-field umpires, Alex Wharf and Asif Yaqoob, along with third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, and fourth umpire Rashid Riaz. Pakistan’s captain, Shaheen Afridi, accepted the proposed sanction, which eliminated the need for a formal hearing.
Context of the Match and Series Overview
The penalty followed a competitive series opener where Pakistan secured a six-run victory over Sri Lanka. Salman Ali Agha’s unbeaten century and Hussain Talat’s half-century were instrumental in boosting Pakistan to 299 for five in their 50 overs. Despite a gutsy half-century from Wanindu Hasaranga, Sri Lanka was restricted to 293 for nine. Pacer Haris Rauf led the bowling attack with four wickets, supported by Faheem Ashraf and Naseem Shah, who claimed two each, and Mohammad Nawaz with one.
The series, which Pakistan currently leads 1-0, faced a revised schedule. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced changes following a deadly blast in Islamabad, which sadly resulted in 12 fatalities and over 30 injuries. According to the updated schedule, the second ODI was scheduled for November 14, and the final match on November 16, both played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. These matches were originally slated for November 13 and November 15 at the same venue, as reported by SindhNews.com.
Conclusion
The ICC’s decision to penalise Pakistan for slow over-rate highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure adherence to playing conditions. While Pakistan secured a win in the series opener, the fine serves as a reminder of the responsibilities teams hold regarding game pace. The series continues amidst both on-field competitive play and off-field adjustments following unforeseen circumstances.