Pakistan’s remarkable victory over New Zealand at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 (CWC23) was marred by a sanction due to their slow over rate during the game.
During New Zealand’s innings in Bengaluru, Pakistan was found to be two overs short, resulting in a 10 percent penalty on their match fee.
This development slightly overshadowed Pakistan’s outstanding win against the Kiwis, with Fakhar Zaman’s century playing a pivotal role in keeping Babar Azam’s team in the hunt for a spot in the World Cup’s knockout stages.
The charges were brought forward by on-field umpires Paul Wilson and Richard Kettleborough, along with third umpire Richard Illingworth and fourth umpire Joel Wilson. The sanction was enforced by Richie Richardson from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees.
According to Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which pertains to minimum over-rate offenses, players are fined five percent of their match fee for each over not bowled within the designated time. Babar Azam admitted the offense and accepted the proposed sanction, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.
Fakhar Zaman’s exceptional performance, scoring an unbeaten 126* in just 81 deliveries, ensured that Pakistan stayed ahead of the DLS target, despite the match ending prematurely due to persistent rain at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
This victory marked Pakistan’s fourth win in the tournament and keeps them in contention for a top-four spot in the standings. Their next challenge is against England in the final match of the group stage on Saturday.
READ MORE: PCB Chairman Rewards Fakhar Zaman with Rs1mn for Stellar Performance
