Why Was Afghanistan Fined After Their Test Defeat to Zimbabwe?
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Synopsis
Afghanistan's recent Test match against Zimbabwe ended in disappointment not just on the scoreboard but also with a hefty financial penalty. Learn more about the slow over-rate fine and the historic win for Zimbabwe as they celebrate a remarkable milestone.
Key Takeaways
- Afghanistan fined 25% of match fee for slow over-rate.
- Slow over-rate penalties are outlined in ICC's Article 2.22.
- Zimbabwe achieved their first home Test win since 2013.
- Richard Ngarava delivered a career-best performance.
- Match concluded within three days marking a historic win for Zimbabwe.
Dubai, Oct 23 (NationPress) Afghanistan's disappointing innings loss to Zimbabwe in Harare was compounded by the fact that they were fined 25 percent of their match fee due to a slow over-rate during the one-off Test which concluded on Wednesday.
The sanction was imposed by Richie Richardson from the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after it was determined that Afghanistan was five overs short of their target, considering the time allowances.
According to Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, players incur a five percent fine of their match fee for each over not bowled in the designated time.
An ICC statement clarified, “Afghanistan were deemed five overs short of the target after accounting for time allowances. Under Article 2.22, players face a five percent deduction in their match fee for each over their team fails to bowl on time.”
Afghanistan's captain, Hashmatullah Shahidi, accepted the blame for the infringement and consented to the suggested penalty, thus eliminating the need for a formal hearing. The charge was initiated by on-field umpires Adrian Holdstock and Nitin Menon, with third umpire Forster Mutizwa and fourth umpire Percival Sizara participating in the proceedings.
This disciplinary issue marked a disheartening conclusion to Afghanistan's performance in Harare, where Zimbabwe celebrated a historic victory — their first home Test win since 2013 and their largest Test victory margin ever.
Fast bowler Richard Ngarava shone brightly, delivering a career-best spell that dismantled Afghanistan's batting lineup, leading to a victory by an innings and 73 runs.
Under the gloomy skies on the third morning, Ngarava's unwavering discipline and sharp movement resulted in his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket. His outstanding performance ensured that the match, which started evenly, wrapped up within three days — marking Zimbabwe's first innings victory since 2001 and providing a moment of pride for the hosts following years of challenges in the longest format.
Point of View
I believe that while penalties for slow over-rates are necessary to ensure the integrity of the game, they should also serve as a learning experience for teams. Afghanistan's performance in Harare was disappointing, but it opens avenues for improvement. The cricketing community should rally behind them, as such setbacks are part of the journey in sports.
NationPress
23/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason for Afghanistan's fine?
Afghanistan was fined for maintaining a slow over-rate during their Test match against Zimbabwe, leading to a deduction of 25% of their match fee.
How does the ICC determine fines for slow over-rates?
The ICC imposes fines based on Article 2.22 of their Code of Conduct, where teams are fined 5% of their match fee for every over they fail to bowl in the allotted time.
Who imposed the fine on Afghanistan?
The fine was imposed by Richie Richardson from the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after the match concluded.
What was the outcome of the Test match?
Afghanistan lost to Zimbabwe by an innings and 73 runs, marking a significant win for Zimbabwe.
What does this defeat mean for Afghanistan's future?
This defeat serves as a learning opportunity for Afghanistan as they look to improve their performance in future matches.
