ICC punishes Pakistan captain Fatima Sana for aggressive send-off to provoke Shafali Verma in T20 Asia Cup match

International Cricket Council (ICC) on September 7 sanctioned Pakistan captain Fatima Sana for her aggressive send-off after dismissing India opener Shafali Verma in the Women's T20 Asia Cup 2026 group stage clash. Fatima has been fined 10 per cent of her match fee. She breached Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct Article 2.5 which relates to “using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon dismissal.”

This is Fatima's second offence in the 24-month period. The apex cricket board added one demerit point to her disciplinary record. Fatima's previous demerit point was in a T20I game against Ireland in the year 2025.

ALSO READ: Asian Games 2026 schedule announced: Check details about India men's and women's clashes

If she gets two more demerit points, they are converted into suspension points. If a player gets two suspension points, it leads to a ban for one Test or two ODIs or two T20Is depending on what comes first.

ALSO READ: Ishan Kishan creates history with double century at Duleep Trophy Final; joins elite club

Fatima had dismissed Shafali caught and bowled. After completing the catch, Fatima pointed in the direction of the dressing room while Shafali opted not to react.

There was no need for a formal hearing as Fatima admitted to her offence. Match referee Supriya Das opted not to impose the maximum penalty for a Level 1 breach which is 50 per cent match fee fine and up to two demerit points.

Fatima consoles herself with three-fer

At Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 5, Pakistan were bundled out for 55 in 18.1 overs. India lost three wickets but skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and Deepti Sharma ensured that they get over the line with 11.2 overs to spare. India registered a dominating seven-wicket victory as Fatima’s three-fer was her only consolation.

Pakistan to face Hong Kong, China in must-win game

India are already into the semifinals whereas Pakistan will face Hong Kong, China on September 7. A win will ensure Pakistan face defending champions Sri Lanka led by Chamari Athapaththu on September 11.