In a rare disciplinary action, Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has been fined 10% of his match fee by the International Cricket Council (ICC) following an on-field outburst during the third ODI against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi.
The incident occurred when Babar, visibly frustrated after being dismissed in the 21st over, struck the stumps with his bat before leaving the crease. Match officials deemed this behavior a violation of the ICC’s Code of Conduct, specifically Level 1, Article 2.2, which covers “abuse of cricket equipment or ground fixtures.”
The match referee, Ali Naqvi, reviewed the footage and formally charged Babar. The star batsman accepted the sanction, avoiding a formal hearing, and was handed one demerit point, his first in 24 months.
Despite the episode, Pakistan went on to win the match, completing a 3–0 series sweep over Sri Lanka. Babar, who top-scored in the series with 165 runs including his 20th ODI century, remains a crucial figure for the team.
In an official statement, the ICC noted that Babar’s acceptance of the charge reflected acknowledgment of the lapse in composure, and the fine served as a reminder that even elite players are accountable for maintaining on-field discipline.
Fans and analysts have had mixed reactions. Many sympathized with Babar, citing the pressures of captaincy and high-stakes cricket, while others stressed the importance of setting an example for younger players.
This incident underscores the ICC’s commitment to upholding professionalism in cricket and highlights that momentary frustration, no matter how small, can carry significant consequences.
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