Pakistan’s cricket team has been fined for maintaining a slow over-rate during their recent One Day International (ODI) match against New Zealand. The International Cricket Council (ICC) imposed a 10% match fee penalty on the team after they were found to be two overs short of the required target, even after accounting for time allowances. This sanction underscores the ICC’s commitment to maintaining the pace and flow of the game, ensuring that teams adhere to the stipulated over-rate regulations
The penalty was enforced by Jeff Crowe of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees. According to Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, players are fined 5% of their match fee for each over their side fails to bowl within the allotted time. In this instance, with Pakistan being two overs short, the total fine amounted to 10% of the match fee for each player. Captain Mohammad Rizwan accepted the sanction and pleaded guilty to the offence, thereby eliminating the need for a formal hearing. The charge was brought forward by on-field umpires Chris Brown and Paul Reiffel, third umpire Michael Gough, and fourth umpire Wayne Knights.
The match in question was the opening game of the ODI series between Pakistan and New Zealand, held in Napier. New Zealand delivered a commanding performance, securing a 73-run victory. The hosts posted a formidable total of 344/9, propelled by a blazing century from Mark Chapman. In response, Pakistan was bowled out for 271, with Nathan Smith achieving career-best bowling figures that dismantled the Pakistani batting lineup.
Implications for Pakistan
This fine is not an isolated incident for the Pakistani cricket team. There have been previous instances where Pakistan faced penalties for slow over-rates:
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Auckland ODI: Pakistan was fined for maintaining a slow over-rate in the third and final ODI in Auckland, which New Zealand won by three wickets. The team was found to be one over short of its target after time allowances were considered.
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Karachi ODI: The team faced fines for a slow over-rate during a 129-run defeat against Sri Lanka in the second ODI in Karachi. They were ruled to be two overs short of the target after time allowances.
Repeated offences of this nature can lead to more severe consequences, including suspension of the captain. Therefore, it is imperative for the team management and players to address this issue promptly.
Broader Impact on the Series
The slow over-rate and subsequent fine add to the challenges faced by the Pakistani team in the series. The opening loss has already put them on the back foot, and disciplinary actions such as these can affect team morale and focus. Moreover, maintaining the required over-rate is crucial not only to avoid financial penalties but also to uphold the spirit and pace of the game, which is vital for player performance and spectator engagement.
The ICC’s decision to fine Pakistan for a slow over-rate in the first ODI against New Zealand serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to the game’s regulations. For Pakistan, addressing over-rate issues is essential to avoid further sanctions and to improve their performance in the ongoing series. Ensuring timely completion of overs reflects professionalism and respect for the sport, qualities that are paramount at the international level.
ODI series schedule:
1st ODI – New Zealand beat Pakistan by 73 runs at McLean Park, Napier
2nd ODI – 2 April; Seddon Park, Hamilton at 3am PKT
3rd ODI– 5 April; Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui at 3am PKT
