Islamabad, Mar 17 2025: Khushdil Shah has been fined 50% of his match fee for violating Level 2 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the first T20I against New Zealand in Christchurch.
The ICC confirmed the development, stating that the cricketer breached Article 2.12, which prohibits inappropriate physical contact during an international match.
Additionally, three demerit points have been added to part-time allrounder disciplinary record, marking his first offence in the last 24 months.
The incident took place in the eighth over of Pakistan’s innings when, while running between the wickets, Khushdil made unnecessary physical contact with bowler Zakary Foulkes. The match officials deemed the act reckless and avoidable.
Jeff Crowe of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees proposed the sanction, which Khushdil accepted, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.
On-field umpires Wayne Knights and Sam Nogajski, along with third umpire Kim Cotton and fourth umpire Chris Brown, filed the charge against him.
Under ICC regulations, Level 2 offences result in a fine ranging from 50% to 100% of a player’s match fee or up to two suspension points.
Led by newly appointed T20I captain Salman Agha, Pakistan faced a disappointing start, suffering a heavy nine-wicket defeat in the series opener.
After being bowled out for just 91 runs, the visitors failed to challenge New Zealand, who chased the target in just 10.1 overs. Tim Seifert and Finn Allen remained unbeaten, scoring 44 and 29 runs, respectively.
Reflecting on the loss, Salman admitted that his team fell short and needed to improve. He acknowledged New Zealand’s disciplined bowling and emphasized the importance of learning from the experience, especially for the debutants in the squad.
Pakistan will look to bounce back in the second T20I scheduled for Tuesday in Dunedin.
