Babar Azam Penalised for ICC Code Breach Over ‘Abuse of Cricket Spirit’

Pakistani star batter Babar Azam has been punished by the ICC for breaking the code of conduct during the third ODI against Sri Lanka. He has been fined 10% of his match fee after being found guilty of a Level 1 offence.

According to the ICC, the 31-year-old violated Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Support Staff. This rule deals with the “abuse of cricket equipment, clothing, ground equipment, or any fixtures and fittings during an international match.”

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Demerit Point Added to Babar’s Record

One demerit point has been added to Babar Azam’s disciplinary record. This is his first offence in the last 24 months.

The incident happened during the 21st over of Pakistan’s innings at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday (November 16). The former captain was out for 34 off 52 balls. As he walked back, he showed his frustration by hitting the stumps with his bat.

Babar accepted the charge and agreed to the penalty given by match referee Ali Naqvi. Because of this, no formal hearing was needed.

ICC Rules and Penalties

The ICC said that Level 1 breaches can lead to a warning, a fine of up to 50% of the match fee, and one or two demerit points.

If a player gets four or more demerit points in 24 months, they turn into suspension points. Two suspension points mean a ban from one Test or two ODIs or two T20Is, whichever comes first. Demerit points stay on a player’s record for 24 months and are removed after that period.

Babar had also ended his century drought in the second ODI. He scored an unbeaten 102 while chasing 289 runs and won the Player of the Match award.