The Pakistani cricket team’s troubles have increased after the humiliating defeat in the first Test match played against West Indies in Trinidad. Immediately after the defeat in the match, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has taken strict action against two main Pakistani fast bowlers Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad for violating the code of conduct. Both the players have been fined and given demerit points for aggressive behavior on the field and provoking the batsman.

Pak vs WI Test: Double blow to Pakistan after defeat, ICC fines two fast bowlers

Punishment for crossing the boundary on the field: Know the whole matter

Despite being in a strong position at times against the West Indies, the Pakistani team’s batting order collapsed, leading to a defeat. Before the team could recover from this loss, the ICC match referee took disciplinary action.

The matter stems from players’ over-enthusiastic celebrations. After dismissing West Indies batsman Shai Hope, fast bowler Khurram Shahzad was seen celebrating too closely, which was interpreted as an attempt to provoke the batsman. Meanwhile, Mohammad Abbas, who took five wickets in the second innings, also roared in an overly aggressive manner after his dismissal.

ICC Code of Conduct: Under which rule was the action taken?

Under ICC rules, players are required to maintain discipline on the field. Key points of action taken under the Code of Conduct are as follows:

• Violation of Article 2.5: This rule prohibits any batsman from making any gesture, word or action after being dismissed that would provoke or provoke a reaction from the player.
• Khurram Shahzad fined: Shahzad has been fined 15 percent of his match fee and has also been given one demerit point.
• Action against Mohammad Abbas: Due to Abbas’s strong and aggressive reaction, the ICC has formally reprimanded him and also recorded 1 demerit point in his account.

Official Statement

What lies ahead: Pakistan’s growing challenges

In this first Test match, Mohammad Abbas performed brilliantly, taking 3 wickets in the first innings and 5 wickets in the second innings, but could not lead the team to victory. Now, before the next match, two key bowlers will be under pressure due to demerit points. If these players accumulate additional demerit points within the next 24 months, they could face a match suspension. After falling behind in the series, the captain and management will now have to pay special attention to the players’ behavior and discipline on the field.