Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman has been fined 10 percent of his match fee and received one demerit point for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the final of the tri-series against Sri Lanka on November 29.
In an ICC media release, Fakhar accepted the charge under Article 2.8, which deals with “showing dissent at an umpire’s decision,” thereby removing the need for a formal hearing.
Controversial 19th-Over Catch Sparks Incident
It all happened in the 19th over when Fakhar Zaman went back from short third, dived, and seemingly pulled off a stunning catch off Dasun Shanaka’s edge.
However, the third umpire reviewed the footage and ruled that the ball did touch the ground during the dive and thus was not out. The decision saw both Fakhar and bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi visibly displeased, with the latter coming up to the on-field umpires and expressing his frustration.
Sarcastic Appeal Adds to the Controversy
Moments later, Shanaka was bowled off the very next delivery. In response, Fakhar Zaman looked toward the umpire and made a sarcastic appeal, further demonstrating his dissatisfaction. This behaviour contributed to the match referee’s sanction.
Pakistan Win Final Despite Heated Moment
Despite the flashpoint, Pakistan won by six wickets. Sri Lanka collapsed in spectacular fashion, losing 9 for 30 to be dismissed for 114. Babar Azam, captaining the chase with an unbeaten 37, guided Pakistan home in 18.4 overs.
First Offence in 24 Months for Fakhar Zaman This is Fakhar Zaman’s first offence in the past two years. Level 1 breaches, according to ICC rules, attract a penalty of an official reprimand, a fine of up to 50 per cent of a player’s match fee and one or two demerit points.
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