[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]Middle-order batsman Azam Khan has been penalized with a 50% fine on his match fees for violating clothing and equipment regulations, specifically for displaying an unapproved logo/political message during the National T20 tournament in Karachi.
In the said game, Azam showcased the flag of Palestine on his bat while playing for Karachi Whites, scoring 35 against Lahore Blues on Sunday. Match referee Mohammad Javed subsequently summoned Azam, who was then fined 50% of his match fees.
The referee had earlier cautioned Azam against featuring the unapproved logo (Palestine’s flag), citing a breach of the ICC code of conduct, to which the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is a signatory.
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Sources revealed that Azam had previously informed the referee that all of his bats had identical stickers. The ICC regulation for clothing and equipment explicitly prohibits players from displaying messages related to political, religious, or racial activities or causes.
An official from the PCB confirmed Azam’s violation of clothing and equipment regulations, and sources further disclosed that Azam had used the same sticker on his bat in two previous games of the National T20 Cup without receiving prior warnings.
Notably, in October of the same year, Pakistan’s cricket team expressed solidarity with Palestine during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, displaying support and prayers for Palestinians facing challenges from Israel. Despite objections raised by Indian fans and cricket experts regarding such gestures, the PCB defended the players’ actions, asserting that the team’s expression of solidarity was a personal decision.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
