Days after Islamabad bomb attack causes huge security concern, Pakistan cricket team hit with fine - here's why

Days after a suicide bombing in Islamabad triggered security concerns and forced a reshuffle in the schedule of the ongoing Pakistan–Sri Lanka ODI series, hosts Pakistan have been fined for an incident pertaining to the first match at Rawalpindi.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Thursday that Pakistan were penalised 20 per cent of their match fee for a slow over-rate, falling four overs short of the target during the opening ODI, which they won by six runs. The sanction was imposed by Ali Naqvi, of the Emirates ICC Panel of Match Referees, after time allowances were taken into account.

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On-field umpires Alex Wharf and Asif Yaqoob, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, and fourth umpire Rashid Riaz levelled the charge. Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi accepted the proposed penalty, negating the need for a formal hearing.

Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, teams are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over they fail to complete within the allotted time.

The penalty comes amid heightened tension around the series following Tuesday’s blast in Islamabad that killed 12 and injured 27. Several Sri Lankan players reportedly raised concerns and discussed returning home, prompting Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to issue a directive ordering the team to stay and complete the tour.

“If any player, players, or member of the support staff return despite SLC's directives, a formal review will be conducted... and an appropriate decision will be made,” the board said in a statement.

In response to the incident, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) rescheduled the remaining ODIs, with the second now to be played on Friday and the third on Sunday, and reinforced security around both teams.



Pakistan lead the three-match series 1-0 after their narrow victory in the opener, which featured Salman Ali Agha’s unbeaten 105 and a spirited effort from Wanindu Hasaranga, whose 59 went in vain.

The tour will continue with the second ODI in Rawalpindi under tight security arrangements.
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