Babar Azam fined for equipment abuse during third ODI against Sri Lanka
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Babar Azam has been fined 10 percent of his match fee for violating Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi on Sunday.
The star batter breached Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment, or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.”
Babar received one demerit point—his first in a 24-month period—after the incident in the 21st over of Pakistan’s innings. Following his dismissal, the batter struck the stumps with his bat before walking off the field.
He admitted to the offence and accepted the penalty proposed by match referee Ali Naqvi of the Emirates ICC International Panel, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.
The charge was laid by on-field umpires Alex Wharf and Rashid Riaz, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi.
Under ICC regulations, Level 1 violations carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand and a maximum fine of 50 percent of the match fee, along with one or two demerit points.
Review / Analysis
The sanction against Babar Azam underscores the ICC’s continued emphasis on maintaining discipline and sportsmanship on the field. While the incident was relatively minor and appears to stem from momentary frustration after his dismissal, even top-tier players are expected to uphold standards of conduct.
Given Babar’s otherwise clean disciplinary record over the past two years, the fine and single demerit point seem proportionate. The swift acceptance of the charge also reflects professionalism and prevents the matter from escalating. Overall, the episode serves as a reminder that emotional reactions, however brief, are closely monitored and carry consequences in international cricket.
