ICC sanctions Pakistan’s Sidra Amin for breaching code of conduct vs South Africa in 1st ODI

Pakistan Women’s batter Sidra Amin has been penalized by the ICC following an incident during the first ODI against South Africa on February 22 at Mangaung Oval in Bloemfontein. The action was taken after she breached the ICC Code of Conduct during the match. Sidra was found guilty under Article 2.2, which relates to misuse or abuse of cricket equipment during an international game. The incident took place during Pakistan’s batting innings.

The moment occurred in the 24th over after leg-spinner Sune Luus dismissed Sidra Amin. Frustrated after losing her wicket, the right-handed batter slammed her bat into the ground before walking off the field. Match officials, including on-field umpires Kerrin Klaaste and Nimali Perera, third umpire Lauren Agenbag, and fourth umpire Stacy Lackay, reported the incident. This was not the first time Sidra faced disciplinary action for a similar offense.

Earlier, the 33-year-old had received a demerit point during the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 match against India, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, in Colombo on October 5. Sidra accepted the charge and agreed to the sanction suggested by match referee Shandr Fritz from the Emirates ICC International Panel. Since she admitted the offence, there was no need for a formal hearing.

Fighting Knock Goes in Vain for Pakistan

However, Sidra Amin played a good innings while chasing a target of 261 runs. She scored a well-made 68 off 69 balls, hitting nine boundaries at a strike rate of 98.55. Her fifty came off just 50 balls as she tried to keep Pakistan in the contest. She displayed good timing and footwork against the likes of Sune Luus and Nadine de Klerk.

However, Sidra’s innings proved to be important as Pakistan lost early wickets in the form of Sadaf Shamas and Muneeba Ali. She attempted to keep the match alive for some time, but eventually, Pakistan Women were bowled out for 223 in 38.5 overs, which helped South Africa win the match by 37 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.