Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, And Kamran Ghulam Penalized By ICC, Here’s The Reason

Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam were fined and received a demerit point each for separate Level 1 breaches of the ICC code of conduct during their tri-series game against South Africa in Karachi on Wednesday.

Overview of the Incident

During Pakistan’s crucial match against South Africa in the tri-series, three Pakistani players—Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam—found themselves in trouble with the ICC. The violations occurred in separate incidents but were both categorized under Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct.

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s Violation

Shaheen Shah Afridi was fined 25% of his match fee for violating Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which deals with “inappropriate physical contact” with a player or any other individual during a match.

The altercation occurred in the 28th over of South Africa’s innings when Afridi and Matthew Breetzke clashed. It started when Breetzke defended a delivery and gestured with his bat. Afridi responded by walking toward him and exchanging words. The situation escalated when, on the last ball of the over, Afridi stepped into Breetzke’s path as he attempted a run. This resulted in a physical collision and a heated verbal exchange.

As a result, Afridi was handed a 25% fine on his match fee and received one demerit point. This was his first demerit point, meaning it won’t immediately affect his ability to play in future matches.

Saud Shakeel and Kamran Ghulam’s Violation

Shakeel and Ghulam were penalized for violating Article 2.5, which covers “using language, actions, or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter.”

In the 29th over, Temba Bavuma was run out. Shakeel and Ghulam, who was a substitute fielder, celebrated too closely to Bavuma, potentially provoking an aggressive response from the South African batter. Both players were fined 10% of their match fees and received one demerit point each. Like Afridi, they had no prior demerit points, so their immediate participation in future matches remains unaffected.

ICC’s Code of Conduct and Its Importance

The ICC Code of Conduct is in place to maintain the integrity of cricket and ensure fair play. It helps prevent unsportsmanlike behavior and ensures respect among players. Violations, even at Level 1, can accumulate and lead to suspensions if repeated offenses occur.

While none of the three players have publicly commented on the penalties, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) acknowledged the ICC’s decision. South African officials also refrained from making strong remarks, but sources indicate they expected disciplinary action.

Impact on Pakistan’s Performance in the Tri-Series

Despite the controversy, Pakistan pulled off a stunning chase of 352 against South Africa, marking their first successful run chase of 350+ in ODIs. This win secured their place in the tri-series final against New Zealand.

With the Champions Trophy approaching, Pakistan will need to maintain discipline both on and off the field. Incidents like these can affect team morale and potentially lead to suspensions if players continue to accumulate demerit points.