ICC Fines Pakistan Players Following First Test Defeat
DHAKA: Pakistan suffered another setback after losing the first Test against Bangladesh, as the International Cricket Council (ICC) punished the team for a slow over-rate during the match. According to Beyond Time News, the ICC fined Pakistan players 40% of their match fees and deducted eight valuable points from the team’s World Test Championship (WTC) tally.
The first Test took place at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka, where Bangladesh registered a historic victory over Pakistan.
Match referee Jeff Crowe confirmed that Pakistan failed to complete the required number of overs within the allotted time. After reviewing all official time allowances, officials found the team eight overs short.
On-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Kumar Dharmasena filed the charge along with third umpire Allahuddien Palekar and fourth umpire Gazi Sohel.
Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct, teams receive a 5% match fee fine for every over they fail to bowl on time. Therefore, Pakistan players received a combined 40% fine because the side fell eight overs behind the required target.
Pakistan Also Suffer Major WTC Point Deduction
Besides the financial penalty, Pakistan also lost eight important points in the ICC World Test Championship standings. According to ICC playing conditions, teams lose one WTC point for every over short.
Pakistan captain Shan Masood accepted the offence and agreed to the punishment. As a result, officials did not hold a formal hearing.
The penalty created further problems for Pakistan after the team suffered a disappointing defeat against Bangladesh in the opening Test.
Bangladesh chased a memorable moment in home cricket history and successfully defeated Pakistan by 104 runs. The hosts defended a target of 268 runs and bowled Pakistan out for only 163 in the final innings.
Moreover, the victory marked Bangladesh’s first-ever home Test win against Pakistan. Fans celebrated the achievement across the country as Bangladesh gained a 1-0 lead in the two-match Test series.
Bangladesh Dominate as Pakistan Struggle Under Pressure
Bangladesh bowlers controlled the game during the final innings and constantly troubled Pakistan’s batting lineup. In contrast, Pakistan failed to build strong partnerships and lost wickets at regular intervals.
Cricket experts believe Pakistan now face serious pressure ahead of the second Test match. In addition, the loss of WTC points could hurt the team later in the championship race.
The ICC introduced strict over-rate rules to improve the pace of Test cricket. Consequently, teams must complete their overs on time to avoid fines and championship point deductions.
Over the last few years, several international teams have faced similar penalties because of slow over-rates. Therefore, Pakistan’s latest punishment highlights how seriously the ICC monitors match timings.
Second Test to Begin in Sylhet
Pakistan will now look to recover in the second Test match against Bangladesh. The upcoming match will take place at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium from May 16 to 20.
Team management will likely focus on improving batting performances, maintaining better over-rates, and avoiding further disciplinary action. Meanwhile, Bangladesh will aim to continue their strong momentum and secure another historic series victory.
Fans from both countries are eagerly waiting for the second Test as the rivalry continues to gain attention in international cricket.
Read more:Shaheen Afridi Reaches Historic 100 Wickets in ICC World Test Championship
Why Over-Rates Matter in Test Cricket
The ICC considers over-rates an important part of maintaining discipline and keeping matches on schedule. Slow over-rates can delay games and affect the overall viewing experience for cricket fans.
Because of this, the ICC applies strict penalties, including:
- Match fee fines
- WTC point deductions
- Additional disciplinary action for repeated offences
As a result, teams now pay closer attention to match timing and bowling speed during Test matches.
FAQs
Why did the ICC punish Pakistan?
The ICC punished Pakistan for maintaining a slow over-rate during the first Test against Bangladesh.
How many WTC points did Pakistan lose?
Pakistan lost eight World Test Championship points.
How much fine did Pakistan players receive?
Pakistan players received a 40% fine on their match fees.
Who accepted the ICC penalty?
Pakistan captain Shan Masood accepted the offence and agreed to the sanctions.
Where will the second Test match take place?
The second Test will be played at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Bangladesh.
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