Trouble on the Field: Three Pakistani Players Fined for Breaching ICC Code in South Africa Clash

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Three Pakistani players have been fined for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during their match against South Africa in the ongoing triangular series ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy. Fast bowler Shaheen Afridi was fined 25% of his match fee, while Saud Shakil and Kamran Ghulam were each fined 10% of their match fees.

The incident took place during Pakistan’s historic 6-wicket victory over South Africa, where Pakistan successfully chased down its highest-ever ODI target of 353 runs. During the match, Shaheen Afridi clashed with South African batsman Matthew Breetzke in the 28th over. On the fifth ball of the over, Shaheen reportedly said something to Breetzke, leading to a heated exchange between the two players. In the final ball of the over, as Breetzke took a run, he collided with Afridi again, prompting Afridi to push him. Umpires were forced to intervene. The ICC found Shaheen Afridi guilty of violating Article 2.12 of the Code of Conduct.

A second incident occurred during the 29th over when South African captain Temba Bavuma was run out. Saud Shakil and Kamran Ghulam then aggressively celebrated near Bavuma. The ICC found both players guilty of breaching Article 2.5 of the Code of Conduct and fined them 10% of their match fees. In addition to the fines, one demerit point was added to the disciplinary records of all three players. All three players admitted their misconduct, which negated the need for a formal hearing. With this win over South Africa, Pakistan has advanced to the final of the triangular series, where they will face New Zealand on February 14.