ICC fines Pakistan team for slow over-rate in first ODI against Sri Lanka

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday issued a reprimand to the Pakistan cricket team for maintaining a slow over-rate during the first One-Day International (ODI) against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi on November 11.

In its statement, the ICC said Pakistan were found to be four overs short of their target, even after accounting for time allowances. As a result, the team was fined 20% of its match fee.

The penalty was imposed by Match Referee Ali Naqvi under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which covers minimum over-rate violations.

Also Read: Internet applauds Sri Lanka’s sportsmanship as team continues stay in Pakistan

Under ICC regulations, players are fined 5% of their match fee for each over their side fails to bowl within the allotted time. The charge was laid by on-field umpires Alex Wharf and Asif Yaqoob, along with third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid and fourth umpire Rashid Riaz.

The ICC confirmed that no formal hearing was required, as Pakistan’s captain Shaheen Afridi accepted the sanction.

Pakistan currently lead the three-match ODI series 1-0, following their six-run victory over Sri Lanka in Tuesday’s opening game.