Champion Trophy 2025: Pakistan fined for slow over-rate against New Zealand in Champions Trophy openerPakistan has been fined for slow over-rate during its opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 against New Zealand in Karachi. The hosts played one over less than the set target after considering the time limit, resulting in a monetary penalty.
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ICC imposes fine for slow over-rate
Following Pakistan’s 60-run loss against New Zealand in a Group A match, the International Cricket Council (ICC) imposed a five per cent match fee cut on the entire playing XI.
On-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Sharfud-ud-Daula, along with third umpire Joel Wilson and fourth umpire Alex Wharf, fined the team for the over-rate violation. Match referee Andy Pycroft confirmed the fine.
As per Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, teams who fail to complete their overs in the allotted time are fined five per cent of their match fees for every over they fall short. As Pakistan were only one over behind, the penalty was limited to five per cent.
Mohammad Rizwan accepts penalty
Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan accepted the charge, avoiding the need for a formal hearing. The wicketkeeper-batsman, who took over leadership duties for the tournament, acknowledged the problem with a slow over-rate but focused on Pakistan’s upcoming matches.
Tough start for hosts
Pakistan’s loss against New Zealand has put them in a challenging position at the start of the tournament. Their batting order struggled in chasing New Zealand’s total, and fell way behind the target.
With the slow over-rate penalty adding to their woes, Rizwan’s side will now have to regroup ahead of the crucial clash against their arch-rivals India.
A big match against India
Pakistan will take on India in a must-win encounter on Sunday, February 23 in Dubai. This high-profile encounter is a must-win for Pakistan to progress in the tournament. A win against their biggest rival could revive their campaign, while a loss will severely dent their hopes of qualifying for the knockout stages. With the pressure mounting, Pakistan will need to improve their over-rate management and on-field performances to remain competitive in the Champions Trophy.
Champion Trophy 2025: Pakistan’s updated squad
Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025
