Did Babar Azam Breach the ICC Code of Conduct in 3rd ODI Against Sri Lanka?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, Babar Azam has been fined for violating ICC rules during the third ODI against Sri Lanka. Discover the details surrounding the incident and how it impacted the match outcome. This article dives deep into the incident, revealing the repercussions for the star player and his team.
Key Takeaways
- Babar Azam fined 10% of match fee.
- Incident occurred during the third ODI against Sri Lanka.
- Babar admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction.
- Pakistan completed a 3-0 ODI series sweep.
- Sri Lanka struggled with consistent batting performance.
Dubai, Nov 18 (NationPress) Star Pakistani cricketer Babar Azam has been penalized with a 10 percent deduction from 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 former captain was found guilty of breaching Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which concerns the “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.”
“Furthermore, one demerit point has been added to Babar’s disciplinary record, marking his first offence in a 24-month timeframe,” the ICC stated in a release on Tuesday.
The incident took place in the 21st over of Pakistan’s innings when, after being dismissed, Babar struck the stumps with his bat before exiting the crease.
Babar accepted the charge and the sanction proposed by Ali Naqvi from the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees, thus negating the need for a formal hearing.
The on-field umpires Alex Wharf and Rashid Riaz, along with third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid and fourth umpire Faisal Afridi, imposed the charge.
Pakistan wrapped up a 3-0 ODI series sweep over Sri Lanka with a six-wicket victory in the third match, achieving the target of 212 runs with 5.2 overs remaining. After Haseebullah Khan fell for a 12-ball duck, Fakhar Zaman steadied the innings with a fluent 55 off 45 balls, including eight fours and forming an 80-run partnership with Babar Azam (34).
Sri Lanka mounted a comeback through Jeffrey Vandersay, who dismissed Fakhar, Babar, and Salman Agha, leaving Pakistan at 115/4. Nevertheless, Mohammad Rizwan (61 not out) and Hussain Talat (42 not out) secured the win with an unbroken partnership.
Earlier, Sri Lanka was bowled out for 211 in 45.2 overs despite all top-order batsmen getting starts. Pathum Nissanka (24) and Kamil Mishara (29) provided a quick start before wickets tumbled. Sadeera Samarawickrama top-scored with 48, while Mohammad Wasim Jr. led Pakistan’s bowling attack with three wickets, supported by Faisal Akram and Haris Rauf, each taking two wickets.
Point of View
I stand firmly with our national team, emphasizing the need for accountability among our players. While Babar Azam's actions might have been uncharacteristic, it's crucial for athletes to uphold the spirit of the game. This incident serves as a reminder that even the best can falter, but it's how they bounce back that truly matters.
NationPress
18/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Babar Azam fined for?
Babar Azam was fined 10 percent of his match fee for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third ODI against Sri Lanka.
What specific article did Babar breach?
Babar breached Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which pertains to the abuse of cricket equipment or clothing during an International Match.
What consequences did Babar face for his actions?
In addition to the fine, one demerit point was added to Babar’s disciplinary record, marking his first offence in a 24-month period.
How did the match conclude?
Pakistan won the third ODI against Sri Lanka by six wickets, completing a 3-0 series sweep.
What was the performance of the Sri Lankan team?
Sri Lanka was bowled out for 211 runs, despite several players getting starts, with Sadeera Samarawickrama being the top scorer with 48 runs.
