Pakistan have been penalized for maintaining a slow over-rate in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener against New Zealand. The hosts have been fined five percent of their match fee after being found one over short of the target following time allowances in the match held at Karachi’s National Stadium.
Despite the excitement surrounding Pakistan’s hosting of an ICC event for the first time since 1996, the opening game did not go as planned. Pakistan suffered a 60-run defeat at the hands of the Black Caps, and to make matters worse, they were penalized for their slow over-rate. Match referee Andy Pycroft imposed the fine after the charge was laid by on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Sharfuddoula, third umpire Joel Wilson, and fourth umpire Alex Wharf.
Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan accepted the penalty, eliminating the need for a formal hearing. Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, players are fined five percent of their match fee for every over their team falls short of completing within the allotted time.
This penalty serves as an early setback for Pakistan, who were hoping to make a strong impression in the tournament. The team, which has a rich history in ICC events, will now have to regroup quickly before their crucial upcoming fixture. With a must-win match against arch-rivals India scheduled for Sunday, February 23, in Dubai, Pakistan cannot afford another misstep.
Pakistan’s management will need to ensure they maintain a proper over-rate in their upcoming games to avoid further fines or potential points deductions. The team’s bowling unit, featuring star pacers and spinners, will have to balance their strategy efficiently while keeping an eye on the clock.
Cricket fans in Pakistan have been eagerly anticipating this tournament, and despite the initial disappointment, the team still has an opportunity to bounce back. A win against India would not only revive Pakistan’s campaign but also boost morale as they aim for a deep run in the competition. The stakes are high, and all eyes will be on Pakistan as they prepare for their next big challenge.
