Pakistan’s top batsman Babar Azam has been fined 10% of his match fee for violating Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi on Sunday.
The ICC stated in a press release on Tuesday that Babar breached Article 2.2 of the Code, which pertains to “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment, or fixtures during an international match.” One demerit point has also been added to Babar’s disciplinary record, marking his first offence in 24 months.
The incident took place in the 21st over of Pakistan’s innings, when Babar, after being dismissed, struck the stumps with his bat while leaving the crease. Babar admitted the violation and accepted the penalty suggested by Ali Naqvi of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees, avoiding the need for a formal hearing.
The charge was issued by on-field umpires Alex Wharf and Rashid Riaz, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi.
For Level 1 breaches, penalties range from an official reprimand to a fine of up to 50% of the match fee, along with one or two demerit points.
