Champions Trophy: ICC punishes Pakistan ahead of India clash

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has fined Pakistan for maintaining a slow over-rate in their opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand.

The team, led by Mohammad Rizwan, was found one over short of the required target. As a result, they were penalised by having to field an extra fielder inside the 30-yard circle during the final over of New Zealand’s innings.

On-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Sharfuddoula, along with third umpire Joel Wilson and fourth umpire Alex Wharf, levied the charge, which was upheld by match referee Andy Pycroft.

The penalty resulted in a 5% deduction from the match fee. Rizwan accepted the offence, avoiding a formal hearing.

According to Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, teams are penalized 5% of their match fee for each over they fall short of completing within the allotted time.

Pakistan Suffers 60-Run Defeat to New Zealand

In the match itself, Pakistan suffered a 60-run loss to New Zealand. Batting first, New Zealand posted a total of 320 runs, powered by centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham.

Pakistan struggled throughout their chase, managing just 22/2 in the powerplay—their joint-lowest score in an opening phase since 2024. Former captain Babar Azam reached a half-century but faced criticism for a lack of attacking intent. Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah later offered some resistance, but their efforts were insufficient to prevent defeat.

Pakistan will next face India in a crucial fixture.