Pakistan faced consequences for a tardy over-rate in the first Test against Australia in Perth, receiving a 10% match fee fine and losing two World Test Championship (WTC) points. This led to a significant defeat of 360 runs and a 0-1 series deficit.
The penalty shifted Pakistan from joint-first to No.2 in the WTC table, reducing their percentage points from 66.67 to 61.11. In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, teams incur a five percent match fee fine for each over they fail to bowl within the stipulated time.
Moreover, according to Article 16.11.2 of the WTC playing conditions, a team is docked one point for each over they fall short. Match Referee Javagal Srinath applied the penalties, taking into account all time allowances.
The charges were acknowledged by on-field umpires Joel Wilson and Richard Illingworth, third umpire Michael Gough, and fourth umpire Donovan Koch. Pakistan captain Shan Masood acknowledged the offense and agreed to the sanctions.
Pakistan extended their Test winless streak in Australia
Despite high expectations leading into the Test series, Pakistan faced ongoing challenges in Australia. They suffered their 15th consecutive Test loss in Australia, a streak dating back to their last victory in 1995-96.
Opting to bowl after losing the toss, Pakistan struggled as David Warner’s remarkable 164 and a solid opening partnership of 126 set the hosts on a strong footing, leaving Pakistan with a challenging situation at 321/5.
Despite Mitchell Marsh’s strong performance with a quick 90, Australia posted 487 in the first innings. Pakistan, showing resilience initially, reached 123/1 before collapsing and getting bowled out for 271.
Australia chose not to enforce the follow-on and extended their lead by scoring 233/5 before declaring. Facing an improbable target of 450, Pakistan struggled and were bowled out for a meager 89, resulting in a 360-run defeat.
Mitchell Marsh received the Player of the Match award for his contributions in both innings and the crucial dismissal of Babar Azam in Pakistan’s first innings. The second Test is scheduled to take place at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), starting on Boxing Day, December 26.
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