In another blow to Pakistan, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has penalised Mohammad Rizwan-led side after their 60-run defeat against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025's opener on February 19.
Pakistan fined for slow over rate during New Zealand clash
ICC has apparently punished Pakistan for slow over rate during their opening Champions Trophy 2025 match against New Zealand. Pakistan was deemed to be one over short of the required rate. Resultantly, they were required to position an additional fielder within the 30-yard circle during the final over of New Zealand's innings.
The charge was brought by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Sharfuddoula, along with third umpire Joel Wilson and fourth umpire Alex Wharf. Match referee Andy Pycroft then imposed the penalty, deducting 5 per cent of the match fee. Meanwhile, Rizwan has admitted the sanction, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.
"Andy Pycroft of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after Mohammad Rizwan’s side was ruled to be 1 over short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration," ICC said in an official media release.
"In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time".
"Mohammad pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing. On-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Sharfuddoula, third umpire Joel Wilson and fourth umpire Alex Wharf levelled the charge," ICC's media release added.
Pakistan began their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a disappointing 60-run loss to New Zealand. New Zealand, batting first rode on Will Young and Tom Latham centuries to post a challenging total of 320 runs.
Pakistan struggled throughout their chase. Their powerplay performance, scoring only 22/2, was their joint-lowest since 2024. Former captain Babar Azam's innings lacked intent, although he eventually reached his half-century. Later in the innings, Salman Agha and Khushdil Shah showed some resistance, but their efforts were insufficient to prevent a Pakistani defeat.
Pakistan, who have already lost Fakhar Zaman due to injury, will lock horns with their arch-rivals India on February 23. A loss to the Rohit Sharma's brigade could potentially end Pakistan's Champions Trophy hopes.
