ICC: If anything mars what was really an exciting tri-series where Pakistan earned a place in the final after their win over South Africa in the last group match, it was possible unsportsmanlike behavior demonstrated by three Pakistani players, namely Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and replacement fielder Kamran Ghulam, which resulted in condemnation and stern action from the ICC under the Code of Conduct. What follows then is the full account of the incident and what the ICC did in response.
Shaheen Afridi’s Breach: Physical Contact with Opponent
Pakistan’s star fast bowler Shaheen Afridi was fined 25% of his match fee for breaching ICC’s Article 2.12, which deals with unsporting behavior by physical contact with a player from the opposing team. Afridi obstructed batsman Matthew Breetzke intentionally in the 28th over of the South African innings so that he could not take a run.
It prompted a physical altercation between the two cricketers, which was detected by the umpires. This escalated to become a shouting row, which the ICC deemed inapplicable for the occasion. Afridi had to be fine for what he did, as the governing board made it evidently clear that no such thing is acceptable under the spirit of play.
Unsportsmanlike Celebration by Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam
In the following over, Pakistani cricketers Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam also got in trouble for being unsporting. The two cricketers were witnessed gloating unnecessarily near South African skipper Temba Bavuma, who had been run out somewhat outside his crease.
This action was in contravention of ICC’s Article 2.5, which oversees player behavior on the field while celebrating. Shakeel and Ghulam each received a 10% of their match fee fine for their actions, again highlighting discipline and respect for one another on the field.
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Demerit Points and Fines Levied against the Players
Along with a fine, one demerit point each was given to Shaheen Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam for their lack of respect against the ICC Code of Conduct. The ICC believes that a timely response is vital to ensure that a high standard of sportsmanship is upheld during matches. Disciplinary measures are in line with reinforcing the value of respect and fair play in cricket.
Pakistan’s Victory Secures Final Spot Amid Controversy
Even though there were controversies off the field, Pakistan were able to book their spot in the tri-series final. South Africa scored a massive 352 runs, led by contributions from captain Temba Bavuma (82 runs), Matthew Breetzke (83 runs), and Heinrich Klaasen (87 runs).
Pakistan’s pursuit began on a shaky note, losing three wickets for a mere 91 runs. But a breathtaking 260-run stand between captain Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Aga changed the course of the game for Pakistan. Aga scored a tremendous knock of 134 runs, while Rizwan didn’t get out and remained on 122 runs, as Pakistan achieved a 6-wicket win.
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On to the Final: Pakistan to Play New Zealand
In spite of the disciplinary problems, Pakistan’s victory ensures that they will play New Zealand in the tri-series final. But the row over the conduct of three of their players tarnishes their victory. It reminds us of the need to uphold the spirit of the game and be disciplined both on and off the field.
The ICC’s quick response is a testament to its desire to protect cricket’s integrity. It reinforces the message that while competition is important, respect for the game and the opposing team must always come first.
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