ICC Fines Khushdil Shah for Breach of Conduct
The fine and demerit points will be a significant reminder for Shah to adhere to the ICC's Code of Conduct, and the Pakistani team will look to bounce back from their loss in the upcoming matches, focusing on improving their performance and maintaining a positive reputation in the cricketing world.
Pakistani cricketer Khushdil Shah has been fined 50% of his match fee for breaching the ICC's Code of Conduct during a Twenty20 international match against New Zealand on March 16, after making inappropriate physical contact with a New Zealand player.
The incident occurred in the eighth over of the first innings, when Shah ran into New Zealand bowler Zakary Foulkes with his shoulder while running a single. The act was deemed "reckless, negligent and avoidable" and resulted in three demerit points being added to Shah's disciplinary record. Shah admitted the offense and accepted the proposed sanction without a formal hearing.
This is Shah's first offense in the 24-month period, and he has been banned from one Test or two ODIs or two T20Is, whichever comes first. The ICC also added three demerit points to his disciplinary record, which will remain for 24 months. If he accumulates four or more demerit points in the next 24 months, he will face a suspension.
Despite the incident, Shah top-scored for Pakistan with 32 off 30 balls, but the team was bundled out for 91, losing to New Zealand who chased the target in 10.1 overs. The match ended with New Zealand winning by a significant margin of 59 runs.
The ICC's decision serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a high level of sportsmanship and respect for opponents during international cricket matches. Shah's actions, although regrettable, have been addressed, and he will have to be more mindful of his behavior on the field in the future.