Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam Fined for Breach of ICC Code of Conduct Against South Africa

In a recent One Day International (ODI) between Pakistan and South Africa, three Pakistani cricketers—Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, and Kamran Ghulam—were fined for violating the ICC Code of Conduct. The infractions occurred during an intense moment in the match, leading to disciplinary action from the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The match, played at the National Stadium in Karachi, saw Pakistan clinch a six-wicket victory. However, incidents involving misconduct by the three players overshadowed the game, prompting the match referee, David Boon, to impose penalties.

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s Offense: Obstructing the Batter

Star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, known for his aggressive bowling, was found guilty of obstructing a South African batter during a critical moment in the match.

Incident Details

• The offense occurred during the 28th over of South Africa’s innings when batter Matthew Breetzke attempted to take a single.
• As Breetzke ran between the wickets, Afridi intentionally moved into his path, making deliberate contact, which led to a confrontation.
• The South African batter was visibly frustrated, and the umpires had to step in to defuse the situation.

ICC’s Action

• Shaheen Shah Afridi was fined 25% of his match fee for breaching Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which deals with inappropriate physical contact between players.
• He also received one demerit point on his disciplinary record.
• Afridi accepted the sanction proposed by match referee David Boon, avoiding a formal hearing.

This was Afridi’s second demerit point in the last 24 months, which means further infractions could lead to a match suspension.

Saud Shakeel & Kamran Ghulam’s Offense: Provocative Celebration

Middle-order batter Saud Shakeel and substitute fielder Kamran Ghulam were fined for their excessive and provocative celebration following the dismissal of South African captain Temba Bavuma.

Incident Details

• During the 29th over, Bavuma was run out due to a mix-up with his partner.
• As he walked off, Shakeel and Ghulam celebrated right in front of him, in a manner deemed provocative and disrespectful.
• Their actions were seen as inciting aggression, which is a violation of the spirit of the game.

ICC’s Action

• Both players were fined 10% of their match fees for breaching Article 2.12 of the ICC Code of Conduct.
• They also received one demerit point each.
• Like Afridi, both Shakeel and Ghulam accepted the charges and sanctions, avoiding further disciplinary action.

ICC’s Stance on Player Conduct

The ICC Code of Conduct is designed to maintain the spirit of cricket, ensuring that all players adhere to fair play and sportsmanship.

• Level 1 offenses—such as the ones committed by Afridi, Shakeel, and Ghulam—carry penalties ranging from a reprimand to a maximum fine of 50% of the player’s match fee.
• Accumulation of four or more demerit points within 24 months results in an automatic suspension.
• The ICC has been strictly enforcing these rules to prevent incidents that can harm the integrity of the game.

In this case, all three Pakistani players have been warned that further violations could result in harsher punishments, including suspensions from future matches.

Reactions from Cricket Experts and Fans

Pakistan Team’s Response

• The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet issued an official statement on the fines, but sources indicate that the team management has spoken to the players about maintaining discipline.
• Head coach Gary Kirsten reportedly reminded the squad about the importance of professionalism on the field.

Cricket Pundits’ Take

• Former cricketers, including Wasim Akram and Michael Vaughan, commented on the incident, emphasizing that “passion is good, but players must control their emotions.”
• Some experts felt that Afridi’s obstruction was avoidable and could have led to a match penalty if it had been more serious.

Fan Reactions on Social Media

• Many Pakistani fans defended Shaheen Afridi, calling the punishment “too harsh.”
• However, others agreed that players must maintain discipline, as unnecessary aggression can cost the team crucial penalties in future matches.

Final Thoughts: Lessons for the Pakistan Cricket Team

Pakistan has been known for its aggressive and passionate cricket, but maintaining discipline and composure is equally important.

The fines and demerit points serve as a warning to players to ensure they do not engage in misconduct that could impact the team negatively.

With major tournaments like the ICC Champions Trophy and the 2025 T20 World Cup approaching, Pakistan’s cricketers must be mindful of their behavior to avoid suspensions that could weaken the squad.