Pakistan star batter Babar Azam has been fined 10% of his match fee for hitting the stumps with his bat after being dismissed during the third ODI against Sri Lanka. The ICC confirmed that Babar breached Article 2.2 of the Code of Conduct, which covers “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.”
The incident took place in the 21st over of Pakistan’s innings when Babar, batting on 34, was bowled by Sri Lankan leg spinner Jeffrey Vander say. Frustrated by his dismissal, Babar struck the stumps before leaving the crease, prompting match officials to bring charges against him.
A demerit point has also been added to Babar’s disciplinary record. This marks his first offence within a 24-month period.
Officials, Charges, and Sanction Process
The charge was laid by on-field umpires Alex Wharf and Rashid Riaz, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi. Match referee Ali Naqvi from the Emirates ICC International Panel proposed the sanction.
Since Babar accepted the charge and agreed to the penalty, no formal hearing was required.
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Despite this minor disciplinary setback, Babar Azam played a crucial role throughout the series. Pakistan completed a 3-0 whitewash over Sri Lanka, with Babar finishing as the leading run-scorer, amassing 165 runs, including his long-awaited 20th ODI century in the second match at Rawalpindi.
What’s Next for Babar Azam?
Babar Azam’s next assignment will be the T20I tri-series at home involving Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe, set to begin on Tuesday.
